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Manila Bulletin devider Business devider The Stock Market devider Tech transforming Philippine travel and aviation

Tech transforming Philippine travel and aviation

Published Jan 1, 2026 12:01 am  |  Updated Dec 31, 2025 08:55 am
For decades, air travel through Philippine gateways was defined by long queues, manual checks, and friction-filled journeys—an experience that hindered both travelers and the country’s tourism competitiveness.
Today, technology is decisively changing that narrative. iWave Inc., a 35-year-old subsidiary of Philippine Stock Exchange-listed DFNN Inc., is positioning itself at the forefront of this transformation. From check-in counters to boarding gates, biometric verification and contactless processing are reshaping the global airport experience.
Building on this momentum, iWave has expanded beyond its traditional tech domains into aviation, travel, and border control—sectors where digital reliability and mission-critical operations translate directly into economic value. As part of its long-term diversification strategy, iWave has entered this space where systems must operate with near-zero tolerance for failure.
This strategic shift represents more than an operational milestone; it is a value-building move for shareholders. Aviation and travel infrastructure offer long-term, recurring revenue streams anchored in operations and maintenance (O&M), system upgrades, and continuous technical support.  
iWave’s formal entry into this high-growth sector follows its appointment as the local partner of Spain-based Amadeus IT Group for the deployment of advanced passenger processing systems at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminals 1 and 3.
Amadeus, a global leader in travel technology, was previously contracted by the San Miguel Corp.-led New NAIA Infrastructure Corp. (NNIC) to modernize the airport's border control using biometric and electronic immigration gate (e-gate) solutions.
In 2024, Amadeus strengthened its biometric capabilities by acquiring Portugal-based Vision-Box, whose technologies are used in over 100 airports worldwide. The NAIA project introduces these globally proven, aviation-grade systems to Philippine gateways, reflecting close cooperation between the government and the private sector under new airport management.
The results have been immediate. During dry runs that began on Dec. 16, 2025—following the official launch of the new NAIA facilities by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.—a full international flight of more than 200 passengers was cleared in less than 15 minutes. Individual processing times dropped to just 10–15 seconds, provided travelers complied with Bureau of Immigration (BI) rules, such as removing masks and passport covers.
What was once a major bottleneck during peak seasons has been transformed into a faster, more dignified experience, underscoring how technology directly enhances tourism.  
Under the NAIA project, Amadeus supplies the core systems while iWave serves as the local implementing and O&M partner under a multi-year agreement. The BI is the primary user of the e-gates, while the NNIC funded and procured the hardware as part of its broader modernization program.
Beyond NAIA, iWave’s aviation footprint is expanding nationwide. Alongside consortium partners Amadeus, TECH5 Switzerland, and Pronet Systems Philippines, the company secured a ₱1.53-billion contract from the BI to deploy biometric e-gates across key international gateways, including Mactan-Cebu, Clark, Panglao-Bohol, and Davao.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado signed the contract with the iWave-led consortium on Dec. 22, 2025. This rollout supports the BI’s objectives of faster processing, enhanced security, and multi-agency data harmonization.  
Independent market models project international visitors to the Philippines will exceed 12.9 million by 2028, surpassing official targets. Across the Asia-Pacific region—which accounts for nearly 60 percent of new global airport developments—passenger traffic is expected to grow by an average of 4.8 percent annually over the next three years.
“Passenger behavior continues to evolve, and technology plays a crucial role in both enhancing the experience and strengthening border control,” said iWave Executive Director and COO Marco Urera. “iWave is prepared to support these demands alongside our partners and clients.”
Ultimately, iWave’s move into aviation is about more than market entry; it is about reshaping the Philippine travel journey. By transforming airports from points of frustration into gateways of efficiency, the company contributes to national competitiveness while building sustainable, long-term value for DFNN shareholders.
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