Manila Airport: Soldiers' Presence And Their Role

Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is the main international gateway to the Philippines, located about 7km south of Manila. It is one of the two international airports serving the Metro Manila area. The airport is currently undergoing construction to expand its capacity and is set to be finished by 2028. With four terminals and two runways, NAIA is the largest and busiest airport in the Philippines. It handles most of the major airlines and serves as a hub for several. While there have been reports of scams and theft at the airport, it offers various facilities and services, including free Wi-Fi, baby care facilities, and a variety of dining and shopping options. Regarding the presence of soldiers, there is no specific mention of soldiers being stationed at NAIA. However, the airport does have security personnel and medical staff to ensure the safety and well-being of travellers.

Is Manila Airport dangerous?

Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) is the largest airport in the Philippines and the main international gateway to the country. It is also known as NAIA (pronounced na-ee-ya) and Manila International Airport.

The airport has a reputation for being dangerous due to several reasons. Firstly, there have been reports of gangs operating within the airport and thefts occurring. The airport has also been criticised for its poor facilities, with long lines, limited dining options, and unreliable Wi-Fi connectivity. In addition, there are issues with transportation to and from the airport, with an unreliable shuttle service and taxi drivers who have been known to overcharge passengers.

However, the most significant concern relates to a scam known as "laglag bala" or "tanim bala", which has been occurring since 2012. In this scam, airport security personnel plant bullets inside passengers' bags, leading to their arrest or detention. This has primarily targeted Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and departing travellers, who are forced to pay bribes to avoid missing their flights and facing legal consequences. The scam has received media attention and caused concern among travellers, with some reporting that they felt unsafe or uncomfortable during their time at the airport.

To address safety concerns, it is recommended to remain vigilant and take precautions such as keeping valuables hidden and being cautious when using ATMs or seeking assistance from airport employees. It is also important to be aware of your surroundings and stay close to other travellers or security personnel if you feel threatened. While NAIA may have a negative reputation, it is important to make informed decisions based on current information and take appropriate safety measures when travelling through the airport.

Where is Ninoy Aquino International Airport?

Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is located along the border between Pasay and Parañaque cities in Metro Manila, about 7 km (3.4 miles) south of the city and southwest of Makati Central Business District. It is one of the two international airports serving the Metro Manila Area and is the main international gateway to the Philippines.

The airport is named after Senator Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino Jr., who was assassinated at the airport in 1983.

What is the New Manila International Airport?

The New Manila International Airport, also known as the Bulacan International Airport, is an international airport currently under construction in the coastal areas of Bulacan, 35 km north of Manila, the capital of the Philippines. The airport is being built to help decongest Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), the main gateway for air travellers to the capital. The new airport is expected to be completed by 2028.

The airport will be built on a 2,500-hectare coastal property as part of an envisioned 12,000-hectare township that will feature a residential zone, a government centre, a seaport, and an industrial zone. The airport development will include a passenger terminal building with airside and landside facilities, an airport toll road, and a railway. The total cost of the project is estimated to be ₱735.634 billion.

The groundbreaking for the new airport began on October 14, 2020, and the construction of the first phase, which includes two runways and the terminal buildings, commenced on March 18, 2022. The new airport is expected to have a capacity of 200 million passengers per year when fully built, which is about six times larger than the current capacity of NAIA.

The construction of the New Manila International Airport is being led by the San Miguel Corporation (SMC) and will be fully owned by the Philippine government under a build-operate-transfer program. SMC has partnered with international firms, including Groupe ADP Ingénierie, Meinhardt Group, and Jacobs Engineering Group, to design and build the airport.

How can I get to and from Manila Airport?

The Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) is located 7 kilometres (3.4 miles) south of Manila. It is the largest airport in the Philippines and the primary entry point for travellers to the country.

There are several ways to get to and from the airport, depending on your budget and preference. Here are some options:

• By bus: The Ultimate Bus Experience (UBE Express) is a shuttle service that offers various routes in Metro Manila. Tickets start from PHP 150 ($2.60) for the Makati and Manila routes and PHP 200 ($3.40) for the Araneta City and Alabang routes. The shuttle takes around 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic conditions.
• By taxi: Taking a taxi is the most convenient and comfortable way to get to and from the airport. There are three types of taxis available: Coupon Taxis, Yellow-Metered Taxis, and Regular Taxis. The average fare is around PHP 300 (€5.50), and the journey takes about 30 minutes in good traffic.
• By train: The Light Rail Transit System (LRT) Line 1 connects Baclaran Station, the closest station to Manila Airport, to downtown Manila. This is a safe and affordable option to get to the city.
• By private transfer: You can book a private transfer online or through a company like BookAway. This option offers a dedicated vehicle and a stress-free journey to or from the airport.
• By jeepney: Modified US Army jeeps, known as jeepneys, are a cheap and unique way to get around Manila. They can accommodate up to 18 people and have multiple stops. However, they are not recommended for travellers with large luggage.
• By shuttle: There is a free shuttle bus service between the terminals at Manila Airport. However, they do not have a set departure time and can get very crowded.
• By car: You can also rent a car at the airport or drive your own vehicle. The NAIA Expressway (NAIAx) provides a direct route to the airport from key roads in Metro Manila.

What are the best hotels near Manila Airport?

There are several highly-rated hotels near Manila Airport (MNL) that are worth considering, depending on your budget and preferences. Here is a list of some of the best options:

Luxury Options:

• Hilton Manila: Located just 1.3 miles from the airport, this luxurious hotel offers spacious suites, an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, and an on-site restaurant.
• City of Dreams - Nobu Hotel Manila: This 5-star hotel features an in-house casino, fitness centre, outdoor pool, and 24-hour room service. It is known for its excellent customer service and accommodating staff.
• Sheraton Manila Hotel: Located 0.8 miles from the airport, this hotel offers a restaurant, free private parking, a fitness centre, and a bar. Guests praise the friendly staff and express check-out service.
• Hotel Okura Manila: Situated 0.5-0.6 miles from the airport, this hotel boasts sleek and modern design. It is located within Resorts World Manila and is just a 2-minute walk from Newport Mall.
• Belmont Hotel Manila: Located at the heart of Resorts World Manila, this hotel is a 5-minute walk from Terminal 3. Guests appreciate the friendly and helpful staff, as well as the modern design of the rooms.

Mid-Range Options:

• Holiday Inn Express Manila Newport City: Just a 2-minute drive from Terminal 3, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and apartments with air conditioning. It is known for its good staff and convenient location.
• Savoy Hotel Manila: About 1.2 miles from the airport, this hotel features an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, and an on-site restaurant and bar. It is within walking distance from Terminal 3 and offers good value for money.
• Bayprime Hotel: Located 0.8 miles from the airport, this hotel provides concierge services, non-smoking rooms, a fitness centre, and free WiFi. Guests praise the staff for being nice and accommodating.
• Red Planet Manila Aseana City: A 6-minute drive from the World Trade Centre, this hotel has an in-house cafe and a business centre. The staff are known for being accommodating and helpful.
• Golden Phoenix Hotel: Located 1.4 miles from the airport, this modern and elegant hotel offers free WiFi throughout the property. The staff are courteous and always ready to help.

Budget Options:

• RedDoorz Plus near Tambo Paranaque: Located 0.6 miles from the airport, this hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms at an affordable price.
• OYO 431 Apollo 11 Apartelle: Situated 1.1 miles from the airport, this hostel features air-conditioned rooms with TV and friendly owners.
• Manila Airport Hotel by Urban Connect: Just 0.2 miles from the airport, this hotel provides a convenient central location with free WiFi, a restaurant, and a fitness centre.

Frequently asked questions