Catholic Church leaders are urging a halt to the recently implemented fee increases at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). This call follows a concelebrated mass held on Sunday with the coalition PUSO ng NAIA. The mass was for “Guidance, Truth, and Accountability for aviation industry officials.”
Bishops Ben Labor, Aldrin Lleva, and Agustino Tangca officiated the service. It took place in Barangay 183, Villamor, Pasay City. The bishops voiced their support for airport workers, passengers, and advocacy groups. They strongly oppose the “anti-people and unjust” increases.
In their homily and a joint statement, the bishops emphasized public welfare. They said it must take precedence over private profit. They warned that the abrupt implementation of new charges at NAIA, without proper consultation, is problematic. It “undermines justice and burdens ordinary Filipinos.” This includes OFWs who are already sacrificing a lot.
Bishop Ben Labor stated that institutions like NAIA should serve the welfare of passengers and workers. He added that small businesses should also be considered. It shouldn’t just be the interests of a few powerful corporations.
The bishops urged the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the New NAIA Infrastructure Corporation (NNIC) to freeze the fee hikes. They also want a meaningful dialogue with workers, passengers, and other key stakeholders. Bishops Lleva and Tangca also appealed to the Supreme Court. They asked for a temporary freeze on all fee increases at NAIA.
They requested clarification on the proceeds from these increases. This includes travel tax, parking fees, stall and office rentals, and airline charges. They emphasized the need for transparency and accountability.
PUSO ng NAIA organized the event. The coalition vowed to continue resisting the new airport fees. They stressed the campaign is about more than just protecting travelers from higher costs. It’s also about upholding transparency, accountability, and fairness in the airport’s operations.
Romy Sauler, PUSO ng NAIA’s head secretariat, expressed gratitude for the Church leaders’ moral support. He hopes government officials, including NNIC and its owner, Ramon Ang, will listen to their pleas.
Media members covering the event witnessed a united front. Faith leaders, workers, and community advocates stood together. They see the fee hike as a manifestation of privatization at the expense of public interest. The new fees took effect 14 September.
