Definitely a different vibe
In the past, when things went wrong at any of the NAIA terminals, bad news and criticisms traveled as fasts as ripples on the water. But last Oct. 20, when the BHS or baggage handling system at NAIA Terminal 3 malfunctioned as feared, the ripples of negativity and criticism did not turn into a public relations disaster.
Instead, we read and saw what cooperation amongst private sector professionals can achieve. Almost immediately, both the NNIC (New NAIA Infra Corp) and Cebu Pacific issued statements recognizing the problem, stated that they were cooperating and laid down options and solutions for affected passengers as well as ongoing actions already taken to fully resolve or fix the problem of the BHS.
Cebu Pacific immediately offered to deliver left behind baggage to final destinations or arrange airport pick-up of baggage for some 400 passengers. The NNIC, upon instructions of SMC CEO Ramon Ang, immediately fielded added personnel to compliment those on the ground alongside Cebu Pacific.
RSA also made it known that the NNIC had actually ordered a new baggage handling system as early as July 2024 because installation and start-up of such a system takes one whole year. In the meantime, we can all say a prayer that nothing serious happens because word is, four out of five BHS in the NAIA complex were overdue for heavy maintenance before NNIC took over.
The BHS that conked out last Oct. 20 is reportedly 21 years old, was programmed to be replaced in 2020, but was not. The BHS maintenance is not a simple machinery or conveyor. The BHS is coupled with online x-ray as well as EDS or explosive detection system.
Aside from the BHS’s, NNIC has also invested in the repair/replacement of six to 10 air bridges that have been out of commission or non-functioning prior to the NNIC takeover. That does not even include many non-functioning or phased out x-ray machines with no available parts that have been put in storage or bodegas.
But the good news is, procurement and replacement of equipment that cost hundreds of millions does not take five years in the private sector. The cost is considered an investment, a necessity and certainly not subject to corruption.
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