Nonessential visits to NAIA discouraged

Passengers queue to enter the Ninoy Aquino International Airport terminal 3 in Pasay City. PHOTO BY RENE H. DILAN

THE Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) urged the public not to bring children, the elderly, pregnant women and individuals with medical conditions to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) for welcoming and sending off travelers amid the dangerous summer heat.

It said elevated temperatures could increase the probability of heat-related illnesses, such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion.

“Given the current weather conditions, we urge everyone to minimize nonessential visits, particularly with vulnerable family members,” said MIAA General Manager Eric Ines.

“We respect that it has become a tradition for our kababayans (compatriots) to send off and welcome their relatives and friends at the airport, but the safety and well-being of everyone at our terminals is paramount,” he added.

The MIAA cited recent data indicating a high 42 degrees Celsius (C) temperature in the National Capital Region on April 9. It was a jump from the 39 C to 40 C range that was recorded between April 6 and 8.

“These measures are integral to MIAA’s comprehensive strategy to ensure a secure and comfortable environment for all visitors at NAIA during these extreme weather conditions,” Ines said.

The MIAA said it is considering to install more air-conditioning and generator sets in some areas of its terminals.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration said the heat index in the country would remain high due to the lingering effect of El Niño.