The New Manila International Airport (NMIA) project in Bulacan was presented in Paris as an example of how large infrastructure projects can meet global environmental and social standards.
San Miguel Aerocity Inc. (SMAI), the company behind the project, shared details at the 12th OECD Workshop for Financial Institutions. The event gathered banks, export credit agencies, and environmental experts from 38 countries.
The NMIA project was highlighted as a case study, focusing on how it follows international guidelines such as the IFC Performance Standards and Equator Principles—frameworks commonly used by global lenders.
SMAI presented alongside its partners, including export credit insurer Atradius DSB and environmental consultant Earth Active. The company explained how the project moved beyond local regulations to meet stricter international standards, improving its internal systems and addressing environmental and social risks, especially given the site’s sensitive coastal location.
Participants viewed the project as transparent and credible, noting SMAI’s openness about early challenges and its efforts to improve areas like biodiversity protection and community impact.
The project was also seen as a useful example for lenders evaluating infrastructure in developing markets, showing how cooperation between developers and financial institutions can strengthen environmental and social performance over time.
Atradius DSB said the project demonstrated how collaboration can help developers meet international standards, adding that supporting NMIA was “worth the effort.”
SMAI said key concerns such as flooding, land stability, and environmental protection have been part of the project’s planning from the start and continue to be addressed through ongoing assessments and safeguards.
The Paris-based OECD, founded in 1961, promotes policies on governance and sustainability, with many of its standards used worldwide. SMAI said its participation highlights its ability to meet global expectations for infrastructure development.
