NAIA’s Unresolved Issues Prompt Demands for MIAA Leadership Shake-Up

NAIA’s Unresolved Issues Prompt Demands for MIAA Leadership Shake-Up

By Bing Jabadan – TheNATIONWEEK.com | February 24, 2026

MANILA, Philippines – A year after a San Miguel Corp.-led consortium took over operations, Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is facing intense scrutiny.

Despite promises of a world-class transformation and significant fee increases, passengers report persistent problems, sparking public outrage and calls for a change in leadership at the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA).

TheNationWeek.com has learned that issues ranging from leaking roofs and foul odors to a lack of bidets in Terminal 2 restrooms continue to plague the airport, raising serious questions about the effectiveness of privatization and MIAA’s oversight.

Critics are now targeting MIAA General Manager Eric Ines, appointed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., accusing him of failing to hold the New NAIA Infrastructure Corp. (NNIC) accountable.

A video obtained by frustrated passengers reveals the absence of bidets in all Terminal 2 arrival area restroom cubicles. Combined with complaints of inadequate seating, unsanitary restrooms, overpriced food, and persistent illegal activities, the image of NAIA remains far from world-class.

“What is MIAA doing?” questioned one frustrated passenger, echoing a sentiment that is gaining traction. “President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. should replace his handpicked General Manager Eric Ines… he is not functioning.”

The September 2024 handover aimed to resolve decades of congestion, poor amenities, and inadequate infrastructure that have plagued NAIA.

NNIC Chairman Ramon Ang pledged a revitalized airport to boost the economy, create jobs, and attract tourists. However, travelers report minimal improvements beyond cosmetic changes. An anonymous employee also pointed out the inaccessibility of the food court for a large portion of airport staff, limiting affordable options.

While the modernization plan promised increased passenger capacity, air traffic movements, job creation, and infrastructure upgrades, tangible results for the average traveler remain elusive.

Adding fuel to the fire, fee hikes have been implemented. MIAA defends the increases as necessary to fund modernization, and NNIC argues that NAIA’s fees remain competitive within Asia. However, this has amplified travelers’ frustration, as they argue that the current facilities and services are not comparable to airports with similar fee structures.

Travelers’ question remains: Is it time for President Marcos to replace GM Ines with a more dynamic, results-driven leader to ensure genuine progress in NAIA’s transformation? 

The pressure is mounting to deliver on the promises of privatization and provide Filipino travelers with the world-class airport experience they deserve.