NAIA Takes Flight: Marcos Jr. Inaugurates Biometric e-Gates and Enhanced Dining, Ushering in a New Era for Travelers

SMC President and CEO Ramon Ang, along with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos, conducted an inspection of the newly installed immigration e-gates at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 in Pasay City on Tuesday, December 16. This inspection coincided with the launch of new passenger amenities designed to enhance efficiency, security, and the overall travel experience at the Philippines’ primary international gateway.

NAIA Takes Flight: Marcos Jr. Inaugurates Biometric e-Gates and Enhanced Dining, Ushering in a New Era for Travelers

By Bing Jabadan – TheNATIONWEEK.Com | December 18, 2025

MANILA, Philippines – In a significant leap forward for passenger experience, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., accompanied by First Lady Liza Marcos, presided over the launch of cutting-edge facilities and systems at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3. Spearheaded by New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC) Chairman Ramon S. Ang, the upgrades, including biometric immigration e-Gates and expansive new food halls, promise to streamline travel and showcase Filipino hospitality to the world.

The centerpiece of the modernization effort is the phased rollout of 78 biometric immigration e-Gates across NAIA, with Terminals 1 and 3 already operational. Funded and delivered by NNIC, these state-of-the-art gates, powered by Amadeus technology, allow eligible passengers to clear immigration in a mere 20 seconds, significantly reducing congestion during peak travel periods. The system utilizes biometric identity verification and document authentication, ensuring both efficiency and security.

“This technology represents a significant step towards a more seamless and secure travel experience for both Filipinos and international visitors,” stated President Marcos Jr. during the inauguration ceremony.

Beyond streamlined immigration, NAIA Terminal 3 now boasts two new, sprawling food halls designed to tantalize taste buds and offer a true taste of the Philippines. The “Tambayan” All-Filipino Food Hall, spanning 6,200 square meters and accommodating up to 2,000 guests, features 17 homegrown brands showcasing regional flavors and local products. This immersive dining experience provides travelers with a unique introduction to Filipino cuisine upon arrival or a final culinary farewell before departure.

Complementing the Tambayan is the Mezzanine Food Hall, a 6,801-square-meter space offering a broader mix of 22 restaurants and cafes. Together, these food halls significantly increase dining capacity and choice, transforming the Terminal 3 experience.

Furthermore, NNIC unveiled the Dignitaries Lounge, a 200-square-meter facility designed to provide a welcoming and appropriate setting for official engagements, accommodating up to 61 distinguished guests.

“These improvements are a testament to our commitment to providing a world-class airport experience that reflects the warmth and hospitality of the Filipino people,” said NNIC Chairman Ramon S. Ang.

Looking ahead, NNIC is preparing to open a new Food Village (airside) at Terminal 3, further expanding dining options for departing passengers. Similar upgrades are planned for other terminals to improve operational flow and consistency across the airport.

“This shows how this partnership with the government is delivering improvements that the public can actually see and feel,” Ang emphasized. “As we enter the new year, we look forward to continuing this work and building on what is already in place.”

The NAIA public-private partnership has generated over P57 billion in NNIC remittances to the government to date, supporting other public priorities. With more upgrades on the horizon, NAIA is poised to solidify its position as a premier international gateway, welcoming the world with enhanced efficiency, comfort, and a genuine taste of the Philippines.