NAIA Launches Anti-Corruption Task Force Amid Surge in Travellers’ Complaints

MIAA General Manager Eric Ines

NAIA Launches Anti-Corruption Task Force Amid Surge in Travellers’ Complaints

By Bing Jabadan – TheNationWeek.Com | August 27, 2025

MANILA, Philippines – Responding to a surge of complaints from travellers, particularly overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) has launched a special operations task force (SOTF) to combat corruption and illegal activities at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

The move signals a renewed commitment to transparency and passenger safety, targeting unscrupulous airport police and the proliferation of illegal taxi operations.

MIAA General Manager Eric Ines appointed Airport Police Supt. Luis Cometa to lead the SOTF, replacing Supt. Bing Jose.

Cometa’s mandate is to dismantle the network of “colorum” taxis charging exorbitant fares and address the systemic issues that allow them to thrive.

“We are determined to eradicate these exploitative practices that prey on unsuspecting travelers,” Ines said, emphasizing MIAA’s collaborative efforts with the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to maintain vigilant surveillance of unauthorized vehicles operating at the NAIA.

The crackdown is already yielding results.

Authorities have impounded numerous taxis operating with expired Certificates of Public Convenience and invalid driver’s licenses.

Ines revealed that fines totaling P200,000 have been levied against technically impounded vehicles now under the custody of the LTO and the LTFRB.

The MIAA is also tackling corruption within its own ranks.

Ines confirmed an ongoing investigation of five airport police officers suspected of accepting bribes from illegal taxi operators.

While names are being withheld pending investigation, the internal probe underscores the agency’s commitment to rooting out corruption at all levels.

“This isn’t just about catching a few bad apples,” an official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told reporters.

“It’s about changing the culture and ensuring that NAIA is a safe and fair environment for everyone.”

The MIAA’s multi-pronged approach, combining internal investigations, collaborative enforcement with external agencies, and public recognition of exemplary service, reflects a strategic shift towards accountability and transparency.