By Benjamin Cuaresma
A coalition of groups, led by Puso ng NAIA and ConsumerUnion-Philippines Inc., has launched a fierce opposition against the proposed takeover of Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) by a San Miguel-led consortium.
The groups claim that the deal, which grants New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC) a 50-year concession, will lead to increased airport fees and compromise the country’s aviation security. The protesters argue that the concession agreement was made without genuine public consultation and lacks transparency.
The protesters, comprising airport employees, overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), and concerned citizens, gathered outside the Supreme Court in Manila, urging the justices to nullify the concession agreement.
“This is a raw deal for Filipinos,” said a protest leader. “We won’t let our airport become a cash cow for private interests.”
The groups claim that the deal will lead to higher travel costs, affecting millions of Filipinos who rely on NAIA for international travel.
The groups have filed petitions with the Supreme Court, seeking to nullify the concession agreement and related administrative orders. They claim that the deal is unconstitutional and will cause “grave injustice and irreparable damage” to millions of Filipinos and foreign travelers.
The petitioners also point out that the agreement allows NNIC to impose “non-regulated fees” without government oversight, which could lead to abuse.
As the controversy rages on, the government has defended the deal, citing the need for private investment to upgrade NAIA’s infrastructure.
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has assured the public that the concession agreement will improve airport services and increase efficiency. However, the protesters remain unconvinced, arguing that the government has not provided sufficient evidence to justify the takeover.
The fate of the NAIA takeover hangs in the balance, with the Supreme Court set to decide on the fate of the concession agreement.
For now, the protesters will continue to voice their opposition, determined to protect the country’s aviation interests.
“We will not back down,” said a protester. “NAIA is a national asset, not a private playground.” The outcome of this case will have far-reaching implications for the country’s aviation sector and the public’s right to transparent governance.
ia/xf
