The Economic Journalists Association of the Philippines (EJAP), the country’s leading organization of business journalists, in collaboration with diversified conglomerate San Miguel Corp. (SMC), is set to host its inaugural aviation forum.
The EJAP-SMC Aviation Forum will take place on September 9, Monday, at the Makati Diamond Residences. This event comes just days before the anticipated management transfer of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), the country’s primary gateway, to the private sector.
Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista is expected to provide insights into what both local and international travelers can anticipate following the handover of NAIA’s operations and maintenance to the New NAIA Infrastructure Corp. (NNIC), led by SMC. This transition marks the beginning of a P170-billion modernization project aimed at enhancing the airport’s capacity to meet growing air travel demands and addressing long-standing congestion issues.
SMC Chairman and CEO Ramon Ang will deliver the opening remarks, outlining the conglomerate’s vision for NAIA. Ang will be joined by NNIC general manager Angelito Alvarez, who will detail the airport’s rehabilitation plan, including updates on new terminal assignments and the construction of a new passenger terminal building.
EJAP President Neil Jerome Morales highlighted the significance of the forum. “The forum will provide a vital platform for industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue and share insights with the broader public,” he said.
In addition to the main speakers, Tourism Undersecretary Shahlimar Hofer Tamano will discuss how NAIA’s improvements are expected to boost the country’s tourism sector. Additionally, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration chief Arnaldo Ignacio will address the impact on overseas Filipino workers (to be confirmed).
Key industry figures will also participate, including Cebu Pacific President Xander Lao, AirAsia Philippines CEO Ricardo Isla, and Philippine Airlines president Captain Stanley Ng. The event will feature a panel discussion moderated by Doris Dumlao-Abadilla of the Philippine Daily Inquirer.
The EJAP-SMC Aviation Forum is further supported by Megaworld Corp., reflecting a broad commitment to advancing the future of Philippine aviation.
