Senators push probe into airport facility malfunctions

Senators are calling for accountability and transparency regarding malfunctioning facilities at Philippine airports, including NAIA, Iloilo International Airport, Cagayan de Oro airport, and Laguindingan International Airport.

Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri highlighted issues such as broken elevators and air conditioning systems at NAIA, noting a three-hour power outage in Terminal 2 on March 27 that affected the air handling units.

Senator Grace Poe emphasized the need to address maintenance concerns at Iloilo International Airport, where passengers are experiencing uncomfortable conditions due to faulty air conditioning units, urging officials not to make it a literal 'warm welcome' for travelers.

Zubiri plans to file a resolution within the next few days for an investigation into delays in transferring airports to private sector consortia and other issues affecting airport operations.

Poe called on all airports to enhance the maintenance of critical facilities like air conditioning and electricity to prevent breakdowns during extreme weather conditions, particularly noting the need to monitor how PHP 190 million allocated in the 2024 budget is being utilized for repairs and maintenance at Iloilo Airport.