MANILA — San Miguel Corporation (SMC) announced its readiness to take on the modernization of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) after its SMC SAP & Company Consortium’s financial offer was deemed the superior among three bidders during today’s (Thursday, 08 Feb 2024) proceedings at the Department of Transportation (DOTr).
Included in the SMC consortium are San Miguel Holdings Corp, RMM Asian Logistics, Inc., RLW Aviation Development Inc., and Incheon International Airport Corp (IIAC), each bringing unique strengths to the project.
Ramon S. Ang, President and CEO of SMC, emphasized that the consortium’s financial proposal prioritizes benefits to the government and the Filipino people.
“We aim to elevate NAIA to a world-class standard, ensuring an exceptional experience for all travelers with first-rate services and facilities. Our commitment is to ensure this project brings significant value and advantages to our nation, our government, and our kababayans,” Ang remarked.
He lauded the DOTr for facilitating a transparent and equitable bidding process.
Ang highlighted its strategic collaboration with IIAC, focused on developing an airport ecosystem that promotes better connectivity, high-quality service, and operational efficiency, alongside offering affordable and accessible travel options for Filipinos.
IIAC is the developer and operator of the Incheon International Airport, the largest airport in South Korea, which opened in 2001.
Incheon International Airport was ranked by air transport research firm Skytrax as the 4th best airport in the world in 2022 and the world’s first airport to be awarded the highest level of customer experience by the trade association of the world’s airports, Airports Council International.
He also pointed to the potential synergies with its ongoing development of the New Manila International Airport (NMIA) project in Bulacan. This concurrent development is expected to enhance operational efficiencies, reduce costs, and optimize flight schedules, contributing to a more connected and accessible Philippines poised for future growth.
“Our vision is to create an integrated airport network that not only improves the travel experience but also supports sustainable economic growth and elevates the Philippines as a prime hub for tourism, business, and investment in the region,” Ang remarked.
(el Amigo/MNM)
