The Department of Transportation (DOTr) expressed optimism regarding the participation of potential bidders in the modernization and privatization of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), despite a recent incident involving baggage theft at the country’s primary international gateway.
Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista made the announcement during a pre-bid conference, revealing that six groups had obtained bid documents for the P170.6-billion project aimed at rehabilitating and operating NAIA .
Among the potential bidders are San Miguel Corp., India’s GMR Group, Manila International Airport Consortium, Spark 888 Management Inc, Asian Airport Consortium, and Cengiz Insaat Sanayi ve Ticaret A.S.
Bautista is hopeful that additional interested parties will engage in the bidding process.
When asked about the potential impact of the baggage theft incident on the bidding process, Bautista acknowledged the disappointment but expressed hope that it was an isolated occurrence.
He emphasized the significance of the rehabilitation and operation of NAIA through a public-private partnership (PPP) arrangement for the country. This endeavor promises economic growth, improved infrastructure, and a world-class travel experience. Bautista noted that with the right private sector partner, NAIA’s full potential could be realized, setting an example of progress and innovation.
Bautista also confirmed that the bidding stage was currently underway, and they anticipated awarding the project soon.
The deadline for bid submissions is set for December 27, 2023, with the contract expected to be awarded by January 2024.