Undas is a significant time for Filipinos, especially for those with departed loved ones. It is an important occasion to show appreciation for them, even after they have passed away. Many people travel from various places and countries to visit the graves of their loved ones, disregarding fatigue.
The Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is one of the most important airports in the Philippines during Undas, as many Filipinos return home to pay their respects. However, on October 31, numerous disruptions occurred due to an overwhelming number of passengers arriving and departing, which continued until November 1.
The airport recorded almost 170,000 passengers traveling in and out of the country starting October 20. The Bureau of Immigration quickly responded to the situation. This led to significant disappointment among passengers hoping to return on that day. To address the issue, the Bureau of Immigration dispatched 58 officials to assist the current staff at the airport terminals.
Additionally, a water supply issue exacerbated the situation. Despite the challenges, airport officials chose to remain and work on resolving the problems to ensure that delayed flights could depart. After about a week, the disruptions were resolved at airports across the country, including NAIA, which recorded a peak of nearly 40,000 passengers within just over a week.
In times of disruption, Filipinos consistently choose to help one another, working together to return to their families. This reflects the spirit of bayanihan, emphasizing that even though Undas is important to many, the need to assist others in distress remains a priority.
Delays
The holiday season, including events like Christmas, Holy Week, Independence Day, and Undas, provides many Filipinos the opportunity to return home and visit their loved ones. These occasions are celebrated by Filipino families, showcasing respect for their religion and culture. However, what if the only chance to go home is delayed or even prevented due to consecutive disruptions?
The Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is one of the most recognized airports, not only in Southeast Asia but also globally. It often faces criticism for being one of the worst airports regarding punctuality and service quality.
Amid ongoing complaints, the airport continues to strive to assist and serve passengers with the help of the New NAIA Infrastructure Corporation (NNIC), which aims to improve the airport’s facilities and reputation during holiday seasons.
Unfortunately, on October 20, 2024, passengers were again disrupted due to a mechanical failure at one of the airport’s terminals, delaying about 400 passengers. The airport has stated that it is doing everything possible to resolve the situation and serve affected passengers, even as the NNIC allocated ₱170.6 billion for the rehabilitation of the airport.
It was also reported that there would be a water supply interruption at the first and third terminals of NAIA. This further complicated the situation due to ongoing maintenance at the Putatan Treatment Plant in Muntinlupa.
As future holidays approach, especially with Christmas around the corner, it is expected that more Filipinos will travel to reunite with their families. Nevertheless, NAIA is doing its best to address unexpected delays and issues while continuing to improve the quality and safety for its passengers.
Water Supply Issues
Water is essential for all living beings, be it humans, animals, or plants. It is often said that water is life because it brings comfort and sustenance. However, what happens when an expected water supply suddenly disappears due to disruptions?
Many Filipinos become frustrated when there is a sudden loss of water supply in their areas, as it is crucial for bathing, laundry, cleaning, and much more. This necessity extends to our pets and plants, which rely on water for relief from thirst and overall well-being. Imagine being at an airport where you need to wash your hands for health reasons, only to find out that there is no water available due to a nearby maintenance project.
Such was the case for passengers at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) during the disruptions from November 1 to November 2, 2024, caused by ongoing maintenance of the water supply system by Maynilad at the Putatan Treatment Plant in Muntinlupa.
NAIA officials and Maynilad requested patience and understanding from affected passengers. The situation was made worse by delays in luggage handling due to the sudden influx of passengers at the first and third terminals.
The airport is attempting to resolve the problems caused by slow processes, and the Bureau of Immigration has sent 58 officials to expedite operations. The lack of water further exacerbated the situation, emphasizing the need for patience during such events, with hopes for improved quality in the future.
