DEPARTMENT of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco convened with key officials from the New NAIA Infrastructure Corporation (NNIC) and Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) on Monday (Dec. 9) at the DOT Office in Makati to discuss how the agencies can support each other’s goals to enhance visitor experience in the country.
During the meeting, Secretary Frasco congratulated the NNIC on assuming management of Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and emphasized the transformative impact of a well-functioning gateway on tourism, which the privatization of NAIA is aiming to achieve. She underscored the DOT’s commitment to its mandate of delivering “world-class hospitality” at the country’s ports—whether by land, air, or sea—and pledged the Department’s full support for initiatives aimed at elevating the overall travel experience.
Key discussions included clarifications on airport guidelines, improvements in airport operations, and DOT’s proposed projects such as Hop-On Hop-Off transit tours and medical concierge services. Secretary Frasco expressed the Department’s intent to integrate these initiatives seamlessly into airport operations to add value for travelers. Furthermore, the tourism chief also highlighted the importance of retaining Filipino cultural elements in the design components of the airport to reflect the country’s identity, as part of the airport’s upgrades.
On the other hand, the NNIC sought the DOT’s assistance in improving the collection of travel taxes and streamlining the e-Travel process to “minimize the number of checkpoints” and provide a more seamless experience for travelers entering the country. Secretary Frasco responded positively, emphasizing the DOT’s willingness to work closely with NNIC on these initiatives.
Joining the meeting were NNIC General Manager Angelito Alvarez and Consultant Cesar Chiong, Manila International Airport Authority General Manager Eric Jose Ines and Head Executive Assistant Jeff David, as well as DOT officials: Undersecretary Shahlimar Hofer Tamano, Assistant Secretary Sharlene Zabala Batin, and DOT-NCR Assistant Regional Director Cathie Agustin.
The NNIC took over management of NAIA in September 2024 under a public-private partnership.
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Editor’s Note: This article has been sourced from the Department of Tourism – Philippines Facebook Page.
