New protocols for passengers seeking treatment as Very Important Persons (VIPs) or Person (IPs) at the country’s main gateway, such as meet-and-assist courtesies and accommodations, will now be implemented, as announced by the San Miguel-led New NAIA Infrastructure Corporation (NNIC) which currently operates the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

In a statement, the NNIC clarified that the new protocols for VIP and IP services at NAIA is “expected to curb misuse of VIP courtesies extended at the airport,” adding that these privileges were intended for dignitaries and other important individuals.

In the past, the VIP and IP privilege had been deemed ‘easily accessible’ as it only needed payment of ₱800.

“For that amount, any passenger could bypass regular airport procedures. This not only created potential security vulnerabilities but also led to operational inefficiencies and an unfair advantage for those who could afford to pay,” NNIC general manager Angelito Alvarez noted.

It was reported that the meet-and-assist service fee would be raised to ₱8,000 per passenger.

“Our ultimate goal (here) is to create a seamless and efficient airport experience where the need for VIP treatment, beyond what is necessary for dignitaries and those with critical functions, becomes unnecessary. We want every traveler to enjoy an effortless journey through NAIA, regardless of their status,” Alvarez added.

Aside from addressing these issues, he clarified that the move was designed to enhance security, optimize logistics and minimize disruption to passengers, personnel and airport users, as well as align the Manila airport with international best practices and standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

Among the key changes in the VIPs protocols include the following:

· VIP courtesies and accommodations will now be exclusively handled by NNIC’s VIP Assistance Personnel,

· Non-passengers will no longer be permitted to provide meet-and-greet services or accompany departing VIPs and IPs,

· VIP entourages will be limited to essential personnel to ensure efficient processing and reduce disruptions and

· Access/annual passes previously issued for facilitation purposes will be evaluated on a per-case basis, replacing the previous annual pass system.

In ending, the NNIC general manager likewise announced that “(in order) to discourage non-essential use and manage demand, tailored fees will be introduced for passengers not classified as VIPs or IPs, but seeking similar services such as international performers and other high-profile passengers.”