Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Jaime Baustita said that the modernization of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) under a public-private partnership (PPP) scheme carries an “extensive opportunity for world class transportation” which will ultimately benefit the travelers, government, and investors.
“We believe this project holds immense economic promise and reflects our determination to provide world-class transport experience to travelers and a rewarding venture for investors,” Bautista said during the NAIA Project Roadshow in Singapore on Thursday, Sept. 14.
The NAIA modernization project, the transport chief said, involves upgrading of terminals, increasing of capacity to up to 62 million passengers per annum, improving technology infrastructure, and ensuring reliable operations.
The project seeks to address the perennial issues experienced by passengers at the country’s main gateway such as inadequate capacity of passenger terminal buildings, outdated facilities, restricted aircraft movement among others.
Bautista said the DOTr and Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) are seeking a concessionaire who can efficiently operate and maintain NAIA for 15 years through a PPP contractual arrangement.
The P170.6-billion NAIA PPP Project was approved by the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) Board. It will cover the improvement of all facilities of the country's main gateway including its runways, four terminals, and associated facilities.
The pre-bid conference for the project is slated on Sept. 22 while the bid submission date is scheduled on Dec. 27, Bautista said.
“With the right private sector partner, we can unlock NAIA's full potential, making it an example of progress and innovation in the heart of the Philippines,” Bautista noted.
Meanwhile, Bautista said that NAIA needs to optimize and enhance its existing facilities to adhere to international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).