NAIA Slashes Overnight Parking Fees for Verified Travellers

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The Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) has announced a 50% reduction in overnight parking fees for verified passengers, a move hailed as a relief for genuine travellers. This development came as the head of the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA), Eric Ines, expressed support for the new pricing strategy.

New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC), responsible for managing the parking operations, revealed the change on social media, detailing that passengers who can verify their trip ticket and boarding pass will pay only PHP600 (approximately 360 Thai Baht) instead of the standard PHP1,200.

Ines noted, “I could not say whether the 50-percent reduction is right or wrong. But it is good for the passengers. It will be a relief for them," during an interview with the Philippine News Agency.

Despite the price drop, the MIAA’s ability to regulate parking fees is limited. According to Ines, the authority can only cap fees for the first two hours of parking. Currently, the NNIC charges PHP50 for this initial period. Beyond this, fees are deemed non-regulated, and the MIAA cannot intervene.

Under Administrative Order No. 1, revised for 2024, there are clear distinctions between regulated and non-regulated fees. While charges such as rent and leases fall under non-regulated fees, others, like the take-off and landing fee, are subject to regulation.

The MIAA as a regulator doesn't possess the authority to alter the rates of regulated fees autonomously. Any change must undergo discussions at a national level involving the Department of Economy, Planning and Development (formerly NEDA) and the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Centre. Ines emphasised that MIAA is bound by the terms of the existing concession agreement.

The reduction has been well-received by travellers. Karen Villanueva, a frequent flyer, welcomed the discount, noting, “That’s better although still prohibitive. That is already a day’s wage.”

In Filipino culture, where “hatiran and sunduan” (bringing to and fetching from the airport) is common, parking costs can add up quickly, so any reduction is seen as beneficial.

The reduction in fees is part of ongoing efforts to balance traveller convenience with operational efficiency. It remains to be seen whether further regulatory changes will take place, but the current adjustment is a promising start for those frequenting one of the region's busiest airports.

As discussions around regulated and non-regulated fees continue, passengers remain hopeful for continued improvements in affordability and service at NAIA, ensuring a smoother travel experience for all.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from PNA 2025-08-05