NAIA Terminal 3

The Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 is the newest (so called) and the most controversial project in the Philippines, it was delayed for 5 years and it finally started operation last year. Now, Cebu Pacific (Budget carrier) is the largest airline serving the airport. They said, its a world class terminal but for me, its very far from other Asian airports. There are still many things to improve and it really needs daily maintenance.

Aside from Cebu Pacific, other carriers like Air Philippines and PAL Express also uses this terminal. However, there are still people who are confused with the terminal. When I was at Terminal 2 (Centennial Terminal), there are still people holding Cebu Pacific tickets and they just found out that they are in the wrong terminal. Its also the mistake of the taxi drivers since they mislead their passengers, I hope next time the drivers will realize that there are 3 airport terminals. I also heard that there are foreigners who experienced this confusion. 

Terminal 1 is mainly used for International airlines, I have a very bad experience at NAIA Terminal 1. Its a very old airport, the ceilings and the floor tilings need repairs or massive overhaul. There are no available seats for passengers, instead you have to sit on the floor if the airline counter is not yet opened. There are lots of OFW’s outside. Sometimes I feel embarrased when foreigners visit Terminal 1 because of the uncomfort they will experience, prolonged standing, out of sight ATM machines and some corrupt officials. 

I really feel bad when I pay the terminal fee of P700 and the travel tax worth P1650 because I feel that nothing has changed in the airport. For more than 1,000,000 passengers multiplied by P700, thats a really huge money. They can now repair and change old floors, buy new gadgets and decorate some areas. Terminal 1 is really outdated and left behind Asian airports. Perhaps this is also the reason why our country was downgraded to Category 3 from Category 2 of the US FAA. FAA feels that our airport lacks technology, security and modernity that could easily be target of terrorist. Just my 2 cents worth. 

From security guards to immigration officers are corrupt, although not all. When I was there, I noticed how pakalasan system or bribery are happening. 

Terminal 1 - International airlines

Terminal 2 - Philippine Airlines 

Terminal 3 - Cebu Pacific (Domestic and International), Air Philippines, PAL Express

Domestic Terminal - Zest Airways and SEA Air