NNIC Takeover of NAIA Sparks Travel Tax Abolition, Corruption Protests

NNIC Takeover of NAIA Sparks Travel Tax Abolition, Corruption Protests

By Bing Jabadan – TheNationWeek.Com | November 4, 2025

MANILA, Philippines – A controversial travel tax is facing abolition as public anger mounts over alleged corruption surrounding the ₱900-billion Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Public-Private Partnership (PPP) deal awarded to San Miguel Corp.’s New NAIA Infra Corporation (NNIC).

Sen. Erwin Tulfo is leading the move to eliminate the tax as the “Trillion Peso March,” held on September 21, threatens to expose alleged irregularities in the airport deal.

Tulfo’s Senate Bill 1409 seeks to abolish the P1,620-P2,700 travel tax, arguing it unfairly burdens Filipinos and hinders tourism.

The bill proposes integrating funding for cultural and educational programs, currently subsidized by the tax, into the national budget.

“This isn’t just about saving money; it’s about empowering Filipinos,” Tulfo said.

However, the NNIC’s takeover of NAIA is under intense scrutiny.

The “Trillion Peso March,” organized by the Puso ng NAIA Alliance, was held on September 21. It aims to expose alleged corruption and demand a transparent investigation into the PPP agreement.

The alliance claims the deal was rushed, lacks transparency, and unduly benefits the private corporation.

“No contract, no politician, no corporation is above scrutiny,” declared alliance spokesperson Romeo Sauler.

Protesters fear the deal will result in exorbitant fee increases, making air travel unaffordable for ordinary Filipinos.

They are demanding a freeze on fee hikes, a transparent review of the PPP’s drafting and implementation, public disclosure of all related documents, and subpoenas for all parties involved.

The simultaneous challenges to the travel tax and the NAIA deal highlight growing concerns about transparency and accountability in Philippine infrastructure projects.

The outcome of these battles could have significant implications for the future of Philippine travel and the government’s approach to public-private partnerships.