Taxis in Manila & Rental Cars in Manila

HAAP Transit Hotel

Taxis in Manila & Rental Cars in Manila

For the most part you don't need a rental car in the Phillipines.  In major cities taxis are cheap and cheerful. Just make sure they turn on the meter.  Taxis without meters can be dangerous and there is several cases where tourists were robbed, that's why it's best to take the taxi from the hotel and ask them to mark up the plate number. In the Provinces jeepneys and tricycles (motorcycles with sidecare) are the best choices.  Just be aware that trike drivers are the one of the biggest banditos in the country, often trying to charge you  well over what a metered taxi costs in Manila or Cebu.  If you want to travel long distances you can hire a car and driver for reasonable prices.  Be aware that hiring a car and driver at the hotel will cost you more than getting one on the street.  Taxis will also drive you anywhere but make sure they turn the meter on. If they refuse, get another taxi. Do not accept a fixed price. You can be sure that you will be severely overcharged!  For long distance travel, buses are good value but do not fall asleep unless your valuables are safe. If there are many of you,  just hire a car and driver or a taxi.  Finally, ferries and domestic airlines go everywhere in the Phillipines and fares are very reasonable. Ferries are the choice if you want to mix with the locals. Get an overnight cabin if you want leisurely travel with seaviews of the islands along the way without paying a fortune.

Unfortunately many taxi drivers do not turn on their meters when you get in. Check and ask - each and every time. Many drivers will claim their meters are broken or not working. Others just flatly refuse to turn on the meter. This is illegal; taxis are not allowed to operate at all, unless their meter is working and turned on. If a taxi driver refuses to turn on his meter, just get out of the taxi and get the next one - there are always plenty of taxis around in Manila. If you travel by un-metered taxi you can expect to get ripped off and charged at least double the proper fare. There is a hot-line for reporting jeepney. bus and taxi drivers who break the rules to the controlling organization, LTFRB, which is effective but it takes a long time but it does result in drivers' licenses being suspended. They can lose their franchise if enough complaints are made about a company.

If you're travelling a lot even inside Metro Manila, it's best to find a rental car. As in Manila there is one car rental company that is offering self-drive rates as low as 999PHP/24 hours, it's cheaper to use than taxis.

Best of Manila, 3 days in Manila

Best of Manila, 3 days in Manila

The capital of the Philippines, Manila, is a crowded and colorful metropolis. Due to traffic congestion, it would be best to spend three days in three different parts of the city. There is a lot you can do in the city depending on your budget and your interests.

Good for: Families, Groups, Seniors, Individuals
Seasons: Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

Family-friendly Manila, Manila for young kids

Family-friendly Manila, Manila for young kids

There may not be too many open spaces and playgrounds for young children in Manila but those that exist are quite fun and there are a number of indoor play spaces as well. Check out a chidren's museum, a zoo and an ocean park.

Good for: Families, Groups, Individuals
Seasons: Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

Insiders' Manila, Manila off the beaten path

Insiders' Manila, Manila off the beaten path

A centuries-old church, the oldest university in Asia, Manila's Chinatown and a shoe museum may seem like odd attractions but visiting these places in Manila are not only interesting by themselves, but will also prove stimulating to the tourist seeking adventures off the beaten path.

Good for: Families, Seniors, Individuals
Seasons: Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

Manila on a budget, Manila for free

Manila on a budget, Manila for free

The following places will inspire you to stop and observe. Visiting the forts, a church, a park and watching a sunset at the bay are all free for you to enjoy.

Good for: Families, Groups, Seniors, Individuals
Seasons: Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

Day trips from Manila, Day tour from Manila

Day trips from Manila

Take one or all of these day trips from Manila. They are all within a 3-hour drive from the city. See the world's smallest active volcano in a lake on an island in the middle of a lake, hike up another active volcano to visit its crater, dine under a waterfall, and visit a site that played a big part in World War II.

Good for: Families, Groups, Seniors, Individuals

Seasons: Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

Manila capital of the Philippines

Manila capital of the Philippines

Manila is the capital city of the Philippines. It is one of the sixteen cities that comprise the national capital region of Metro Manila. The city of Manila is located on the eastern shore of Manila Bay and is bordered by the cities of Navotas and Caloocan to the north; Quezon City to the northeast; San Juan and Mandaluyong to the east Makati to the southeast and Pasay to the south.

Manila (English: /məˈnɪlə/; Tagalog: Maynila, [majˈnilaʔ]) is the capital city of the Philippines. It is one of the sixteen cities (along with the municipality of Pateros) that comprise the national capital region of Metro Manila.

The city of Manila is located on the eastern shore of Manila Bay and is bordered by the cities of Navotas and Caloocan to the north; Quezon City to the northeast; San Juan and Mandaluyong to the east; Makati to the southeast, and Pasay to the south.

Manila has a total population of 1,652,171 according to the 2010 census. Manila is the second most populous city in the Philippines, behind its neighbor, Quezon City. The populace inhabit an area of only 38.55 square kilometers, making Manila the most densely populated city in the world.

The city is divided into six legislative districts and consists of sixteen geographical districts: Binondo, Ermita, Intramuros, Malate, Paco, Pandacan, Port Area, Quiapo, Sampaloc, San Andres, San Miguel, San Nicolas, Santa Ana, Santa Cruz, Santa Mesa and Tondo. Bustling commerce and some of the most historically and culturally significant iconic landmarks in the country, as well as the seat of the executive and judicial branches of the government are found in the city. Manila is also home to many scientific and educational institutions, numerous sport facilities, and other culturally and historically significant venues.

Listed as a global city, Manila has its strengths in the arts, commerce, education, entertainment, finance, healthcare, media, professional services, research and development, tourism and transport making it the historical, cultural, political and economic center of the Philippines.

The earliest written account of the city is the 10th-century Laguna Copperplate Inscription which describes a context of an Indianised kingdom maintaining diplomatic relations with the Kingdom of Medang. The city was invaded by Brunei's Sultan Bolkiah and was already Islamized by the 15th century when the Spanish explorers first arrived. Manila eventually became the center of Spanish activity in the Far East and one end of the Manila-Acapulco Galleon trade route linking Latin America and Asia. The city would eventually be given the moniker of the "Pearl of the Orient," as a result of its central location in the vital Pacific sea trade routes. Several Chinese insurrections, local revolts, a British Occupation and a Sepoy mutiny also occurred shortly thereafter. Manila also saw the rise of the Philippine Revolution which was followed by the arrival of the Americans who made contributions to the city's urban planning and development only to have most of those improvements lost in the devastation of World War II.
Since then the city has been rebuilt.

Manila travel Forum, Manila Travel Guide

Got a question or comment about Manila? Ask a Travel Expert!

Why? Many who travel to Manila find that the cosmopolitan capital of the Philippines is the most exciting city in Asia, offering a blend of cultures, a good supply of historic sights and places to see, and unforgettable experiences. Another plus for a holiday in Manila is that the city is as lively at night as it is during the day.

When? Peak season for a holiday in Manila is between November and February, when the generally high tropical temperatures drop to reasonable levels. This period also falls in the dry season, which is a big consideration because during the wet season the city can be subject to typhoons and tropical storms.

Who for? A vacation in Manila is recommended for young, energetic travellers who enjoy sightseeing, shopping malls and plenty of after-dark activity like the city's infamous go-go clubs and wild nightspots.

Manila, the somewhat daunting capital and pulsating hub of the Philippines, is situated on the east coast of Luzon, the most northerly island, the largest and the most developed. The city was founded in 1571 on the site of a Muslim settlement. The city is made up of 16 areas which were once towns in their own right, and its major tourist attraction is the old Spanish walled city known as Intramuros, which contains some historic buildings and ruins.

Modern Manila is a morass of traffic and people, polluted and chaotic, an industrial metropolis that grew from the ashes of war when in 1945, the United States' forces fought to recapture it from Japanese occupation. It is also a city of theatres, libraries and museums, and the home to the University of the Philippines. The neighbourhoods of the metropolis vary from wide avenues full of palatial homes to squatter camps where the poorest of the poor scratch out a living.

Visitors to the Philippines cannot avoid using Manila as a starting point for their exploration of the other provinces and islands, because most charter flights to the outlying islands leave from the city's airport. The city is also within reach of day and weekend getaways on the island of Luzon; this makes it a good base for travellers intent on touring. One thing no visitor should miss is a famous Manila Bay sunset: a light show created out of the high humidity conditions coupled with the effects of cloud over the city's harbour. This remarkable sight allows a short respite from the more unpleasant aspects of the sprawling city. View the sunset from Rizal Park, Roxas Boulevard or from a cruise boat that plies around Manila Bay.

Overview of Manila, Philippines

Overview of Manila, Philippines

Fourteen cities and three municipalities make up what is officially known as Metro Manila, referred to by most residents and visitors simply as MANILA, a massive, clamorous conurbation that covers 636 square kilometres and is home to almost 10 million people. To add to the confusion the old part of Manila – the area near the old walled city of Intramuros – officially remains the capital and seat of the Philippine government. In practice, the seats of government are all around Metro Manila, with the executive, administrative and judicial branches in Manila, the Senate in Pasay City and Congress in Quezon City.

At first sight Manila (in this book, the word refers to the whole conurbation) is intimidating: noisy, unkempt and with appalling traffic. There are few open spaces and only a handful of remarkable buildings. Signposting has improved in recent years, but is still woefully inadequate or misleading. Finding your way around is made even more difficult by the absence of significant modern or historical landmarks – most of the buildings are low concrete structures built in a hurry since the end of World War II. Skyscrapers have gone up in some of the business districts, but none is as notable as Hong Kong's Bank of China or Kuala Lumpur's Petronas Towers.

Manila has no proper city centre. To some Manileños, the central business district of Makati is the city centre, to others it might be Quezon City or the Roxas Boulevard/Manila Bay area. Each is a city in its own right. Roads run everywhere like capillaries, and suburbs act as connecting tissue between new centres of population. It is this apparent lack of order, though, that imbues Manila with character. Its flaws are what make the city human, giving it an anarchic charm that sweeps you along. Manila is also a city of striking emotional counterpoint. Frothy mansions belonging to tycoons and politicians fight for space with squalid shantytowns built along railway tracks. One of the problems Manila faces is the unceasing influx of provincianos, people from the provinces who believe the streets are paved with gold, most of whom end up squatting illegally on any spare scrap of land they can find. The fight for space is intensified by the city's apparently insatiable appetite for shopping malls.

To understand Manila completely, to get under its skin, you need a grasp of its complex and sometimes tragi-burlesque history. It has been razed by an earthquake, bombed, occupied, bombed again and rebuilt. It has expanded inexorably, but public services have not kept pace. The result is a rakish megalopolis that lives on its wits and maintains a frenetic pace 24 hours a day just so it can get things done. The roads are always busy and the buses always full, but in Manila you learn to go with the flow, never worrying about whether you'll be late or whether your taxi is going the wrong way down a one-way street. The Filipino maxim bahala na – what will be will be – applies as much to Manila as it does to life.

Despite its problems and troubled history, Manila is a sociable city, with a populace who take pride in their cultural affinities to the West and their embrace of all things American. Most tourists, however, use Manila as a transit point, a place to spend a day or two on the way to the islands and beaches of the south or the mountainous tribal areas of the north. A couple of days is all you really need to explore the key sights in and around Intramuros, the city's only notable historical enclave, its stone houses and grassy courtyards much as they were when the Spanish regime came to an end in the nineteenth century. If you've got a bit more time on your hands, take a wander through nearby Binondo – Chinatown – or head out of the city on a day-trip. There's plenty to see and do in the vicinity of the capital, from the Manila Bay island of Corregidor, a fascinating reminder of the horrors of war, to the rapids and waterfalls at Pagsanjan.

Manila also prides itself on the quality of its nightlife and the ability of its residents to kick up a good time. For many tourists, this will be their enduring memory of the place: funky bars and nightclubs in areas such as Malate and Makati whose attraction stems from their egalitarian nature. It doesn't matter who you are or what you are, you will have fun in Manila. All you have to do is take a deep breath and dive in.


Got a question or comment about Manila? Ask a Travel Expert!

Why? Many who travel to Manila find that the cosmopolitan capital of the Philippines is the most exciting city in Asia, offering a blend of cultures, a good supply of historic sights and places to see, and unforgettable experiences. Another plus for a holiday in Manila is that the city is as lively at night as it is during the day.

When? Peak season for a holiday in Manila is between November and February, when the generally high tropical temperatures drop to reasonable levels. This period also falls in the dry season, which is a big consideration because during the wet season the city can be subject to typhoons and tropical storms.

Who for? A vacation in Manila is recommended for young, energetic travellers who enjoy sightseeing, shopping malls and plenty of after-dark activity like the city's infamous go-go clubs and wild nightspots.

More Info: Anyone planning a holiday in Manila should have safety and security concerns, and it is wise to check on conditions before you go. This is easy to do using our up-to-date Manila travel guide. Not only does the guide feature safety information, but a host of other useful facts and figures to help you plan your Manila holiday.

Manila International Airport (MNL) Go Downtown Manila

Manila International Airport (MNL) Go Downtown Manila

You go downtown Manila? Basically you have five possibilities: Hotel Bus or Hotel Taxi, Airport Taxi, Regular Taxi, Jeepney or your rented car.

1. Hotel Bus or Hotel Taxi:
This is the most comfortable solution. Most international hotels do have their own transports to Metro Manila. You should ask for transportation when you book your room.
The Hotel Bus Information is just across the first lane on your right hand. The fare should be included in your hotel booking otherwise it is a very expensive experience. (PHP 700 and more).

2. Airport Taxi:
In order to curb the abuses heaped on helpless tourists and other arriving passengers by unscrupulous taxi drivers over the years, airport authorities have since implemented a scheme of accrediting taxicabs who can pick up fares at the NAIA Terminal 1.
Payment is made in advance by the passenger, who is handed a ticket to be presented to the cabbie in the queue. The fare is usually several times more expensive than what a regular metered cab would charge for the same distance. Prices(*) are PHP 400 to 500.

3. Regular Taxi:
A regular taxi costs(*) from PHP 120 to 160 to Makati or Ermita. But this is only true when you take a metered cab and the meter is tested and sealed. Check the seals before you start AND urge the driver to put it ON. If he does not put on the meter, you must tell him that you call the police, if he does not put it on immediately. This should work. If not, make stop the taxi, get your luggage out and look for another one.
There are also honest taxi drivers in Metro Manila.

4. Jeepney:
Is it your first time in Manila? If yes, then forget to take a jeepney. You do not know where they go and where to change the jeepney to your final destination. Basically, jeepney drive always the same route and the route's start- and endpoint are indicated outside. But what do you understand when there is written: Baclaran - Legaspi - Baclaran?
And you should also know that jeepneys rather often do have accidents.

5. Rent-a-Car:
Avis, Hertz and National have their offices at Manila NAIA. If you are new to the Philippines, we do not recommend to rent a car. Downtown Manila is a 20 hours traffic jam. Only from 01:00 am to 05:00 am traffic is fluid.


(*) All prices: June 2008

AIRPORT TAXIS at Manila & Cebu's International & Domestic Airports

AIRPORT TAXIS at Manila & Cebu's International & Domestic Airports: The good news is that travelers no longer have to wander far from the arrivals areas to get a decent Metered Taxi (especially on International arrivals) as both MNL & CBU now implement the Airport Taxi Services directly outside the arrivals areas, using brand new vehicles for just a few pesos more then a regular Meter Taxis - just ask the guards or Airport Police for 'Airport Taxi Please' and they'll direct you to them.

Don't confuse these Airport Taxis with the 'car services' booths at both airports (you'll see these first as you step outside) where they approach you directly to solicit you hard, and where you'll pay a signifigantly higher fare for the same basic ride (ie. a P200 Airport Taxi fare can easily cost P750/P800+ with the 'car services')

Whatever type of Meter Taxi you use in Philippines, always pay attention to what the fare shows well before your car stops at your destination, in case the driver turns it off during the trip or just before your arrival to run a scam on you (it happens on occasion)

Ninoy Aquino Airport Taxi Service Scams

Ninoy Aquino Airport Taxi Service Scams

Manila airport taxi scams include non-metered transactions (driver will try to negotiate price fare, he will exaggerate distance and traffic, and misquote costs. He will claim that passenger would get to save more compared to the metered travel.) These are attempted scams. Always insist on the meter being turned on. If he does not put on the meter, you must tell him that you call going to call the police if he does not put it on immediately. This should work. If not, insist on stopping the taxi, get your luggage out and look for another taxi.

Ninoy Aquino Airport Taxi Rates & Fares to the City Centre

Ninoy Aquino Airport Taxi Rates & Fares to the City Centre

Welcome to the Ninoy Aquino Airport taxi service page. To help with your Ninoy Aquino Airport ground transportation planning, we list the official Ninoy Aquino Airport taxi service options, the current Ninoy Aquino Airport taxi rates and fares, plus any other notes regarding transfers from Ninoy Aquino Airport by taxi, such as unofficial or pirate taxis or other taxi scams.

Official Ninoy Aquino Airport Taxi Service

MNL Ninoy Aquino Airport Taxi Service Options

Official Ninoy Aquino Airport Taxi Service

To curb the abuses heaped on helpless tourists and other MNL Ninoy Aquino International Airport arriving passengers by unscrupulous Manila Airport taxi drivers over the years, airport authorities have since implemented a scheme of accrediting taxicabs who can pick up fares at the NAIA Terminal 1. A taxi from Manila Airport payment is made in advance by the passenger, who is handed a ticket to be presented to the cabbie in the queue. Unfortunately, the fare is usually several times more expensive than what a regular metered cab would charge for the same distance. Note that regular yellow taxis may also pick up passengers from the Ninoy Aquino Airport and the price will be cheaper, but you will need to find them and then negotiate a price should there be resistance to use the meter (see the scams section, below).

The journey time will take approximately 20 minutes to get from the MNL Ninoy Aquino International Airport to downtown.

Luneta park manila philippines, Luneta in manila, philippines

Luneta park manila philippines

Rizal Park, also known as Luneta Park or colloquially Luneta, is a historical urban park located in the heart of the city of Manila, Philippines, adjacent to the old walled city of Manila, now Intramuros. Since the Spanish Colonial Era, the park has been a favorite spot for unwinding, socializing, an urban oasis for family picnics on Sundays and holidays. It is one of the major tourist attractions of Manila.

Located along Manila Bay, Luneta has been the site of some of the most significant moments in Philippine history. The execution of pacifist Dr. José Rizal on December 30, 1896, sparked the fire of the Philippine Revolution against the Spanish colonizers, elevating the martyr as the national hero of the country. The park was officially renamed Rizal Park in his honor and his monument serves as the symbolic focal point of the park. The Declaration of Philippine Independence from American rule was held here on July 4, 1946 as well as the political rallies of Ferdinand Marcos and Corazon Aquino in 1986 that led to the EDSA Revolution that deposed Marcos ending his dictatorial government.

Rizal Park's history began in 1820 when the Paseo de Luneta was completed just south of the walls of Manila on a marshy patch of land next to the beach during the Spanish rule. Prior to the park, the marshy land was the location of a small town called Nuevo Barrio (New Town or Bagumbayan in Tagalog language) that dates back to 1601; it was cleared during the short British rule in 1762 to prevent sneak attacks from the patriotic natives. The area later became known as Bagumbayan Field where the Cuartel la Luneta (Luneta Barracks), a Spanish Military Hospital (which was destroyed by one of the earthquakes of Manila), and a moat-surrounded outwork of the walled city of Manila, known as the Luneta (lunette) because of its crescent shape.[1][2]

West of Bagumbayan Field is the Paseo de la Luneta (Plaza of the Lunette) named after the fortification, not because of the shape of the plaza which is a long 100-by-300-metre (330 ft × 980 ft) rectangle ended by two semicircles. It was also named Paseo de Alfonso XII (Plaza of Alfonso XII), after Alfonso XII, King of Spain during his reign from 1874 to 1885.[3] Paseo de la Luneta was the center of social activity for the people of Manila in the early evening hours. This plaza is arranged with paths and lawns and surrounded by a wide driveway called "La Calzada" (The Road) where carriages circulate

- stroll in the luneta park/rizal park: Formerly called Bagumbayan (New Town) during the Spanish times, Luneta Park got its present name since it was in the shape of a half-moon or a lunette ...also known as rizal park in honor of jose rizal ...a national hero ...its like the central park version of manila

- Manila - The Luneta Park: Right into the heart of the capital Manila lies Luneta Park or Rizal Park, which marks the Kilometer Zero of the Philippines and the northern tip of Roxas Boulevard, overlooking Manila Bay. Built in the early 1700s, the park was the site of some of the turning points in Philippine history such as the execution of the national hero Jose Rizal and the declaration of the Philippine independence from USA.

The Rizal Monument ca be found right in front of the park, which has become its famous symbol. The bronze statue, made in Switzerland and remodeled by national artist Juan Nakpil, is famously protected by the Kabalyeros de Rizal (Knights of Rizal) who do not move all-day or all-night long. It is also considered as the most-pictured site of the park.

Nowadays, the park is a favorite place for dating and for family picnics because of its spacious grassy lawns and open-air concert hall that features live entertainment and music. The park also has a chess plaza, a skating rink, fountains, and playgrounds. Every Sunday morning, Filipino martial artists use the park to practice eskrima, a traditional martial arts form.

The last time we were there was December of 2009, we were amazed by the big improvements of the park. Based on what we saw that time, I can say that the park is really well-maintained. Before, there was only Horse-drawn vehicles or calesas available for rent to tour the park, but now there's already a big and colorful Bus.

We plan of visiting Manila again this December together with our nieces and nephews, and the Luneta park is the number one spot on our list.

- Luneta Park - Tai Chi, Martial Arts, Gardens!: I have pictures of myself as a three-year-old enjoying the slides at Luneta Park (considered the Philippines' National Park)--- and I actually have very early memories of waking up early so that my parents could bring myself and my sister (VTer Jumpingwithnorman) to Luneta, now also known as Rizal Park.

This park has been here since Spanish colonial times and this is where the people gathered and even watched executions, like the famous one which killed our National Hero, Dr. Jose Rizal on December 30, 1896. His hands were tied and his back was to the gunfire, but when the shots were fired, he turned around to face his executioners! There is now a group of brass statues that form the centerpiece of a Light and Sound Show (630 Pm – 730 PM). Also see the changing of the guards at the memorial to Rizal.

Best time to visit Luneta is at about 5AM (wake up, Sunshine!), just before sunrise, when you will see these people practicing the art of Tai Chi (that slow-moving style of Chinese exercise). It’s nice to jog in the park with the honking of the jeepneys on the road, and everybody is just starting their day. There is also less smog during the early morning and you still smell the wetness of the grass.

On Sunday afternoons, there can be Filipino martial arts exhibitions, and sometimes free concerts at the Park Auditorium. You can also enjoy the nice botanical gardens in the Park itself – the Chinee and Japanese gardens. There is even a Planetarium!

Evenings are for young couples dating in the park, and if you are hungry, there are several nearby restaurants.

Park Location: along Padre Faura, Ermita, Manila , Luneta park manila philippines, Luneta in manila, philippines

Chinatown in Manila, Chinatown Manila

Chinatown in Manila

Binondo is an enclave in Manila primarily populated by ethnic Chinese living in the Philippines. It is the oldest Chinatown in the world, established in 1594.[2] Historically, this was where the Spanish permitted converted sangleys, their indigenous Filipino wives, and their mixed-race descendants, the mestizos de sangley or Chinese mestizos, to reside. Similarly, Parían, an area near Intramuros, was where the Spanish first restricted unconverted Chinese immigrants. They allowed sangley settlement at Parían because it was within the range of Intramuros' cannons, and they felt they could control any uprising from the labourers.

Located across the Pasig River from Intramuros, Binondo has typified a small Chinese town, and is referred to as the local "China Town". The district is the centre of commerce and trade for all types of businesses run by Filipino-Chinese merchants. Given the historic reach of Chinese trading in the Pacific, Binondo was already a hub of Chinese commerce before the first Spanish colonisers arrived in 1521.

Binondo is also considered a historic centre of the mestizo de sangley community; famous residents include St. Lorenzo Ruiz, the Filipino protomartyr, and Venerable Mother Ignacia del Espiritu Santo, founder of the Congregation of the Religious of the Virgin Mary.

- Visit the Temple of the God of War, Kuang Kong: Kuang Kong, AKA the God of War, AKA Patron of Martial Arts, AKA Patron of Scholars (when seated/reading). Kuang Kung who was a powerful and loyal general is also protector of Quan Yin, Goddess of Mercy. As C. Celdran puts it, in the spirit of assimilation, the Chinese believers calls Kuang Kong, Santiago. Go figure.

This Buddhist temple is open to the public. You can light incense sticks and put them in the urn at the entrance of the temple and utter your prayers. There is also these red wooden half moons you can use to have your fortunes told. Couch your questions in such a way that they're answerable by YES or NO! Swirl a pair of these wooden half disks over your incense sticks so they catch the smoke and then throw them to the floor. Identical faces means NO. Opposing figures means YES!

BTW, my friend S. L. tells me that, to quote him, "Guang Kong falls under Taoism though in Chinese religion, Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism are often portrayed together in the same temple." Thanks for the info S. L.

They appreciate donations of any amount.

- 16th Century Binondo Church: Located in the Chinatown area of Manila, Binondo Church is one of the oldest church in the Philippines (built in 1596).

The original structure suffered a lot from typhoons and earthquakes over the past years since its erection. The only thing that remains as original is the octagonal bell tower.

Patron is Saint Lorenzo Ruiz (1st Filipino Saint) who served in the church as altar boy during his younger years.

By the way, the church is the Heritage Conservation Society.

- Come Visit Chinatown: There are lots of things to do at Chinatown: Buy appliances that cost lesser, find suppliers for your restaurant or whatever business, buy jewelry, customize jewelry, buy Chinese medicine, buy authentic Chinese food, etcetera, etcetera. It's within Manila, but it seems like you're in another country (just like any other China town, I guess).

BTW, the First Filipino saint, St. Lorenzo Ruiz, was born in Binondo, Manila (the location of China Town)


Chinatown in Manila, Chinatown Manila, Chinatown in Manila, Chinatown Manila

Manila Bay is a natural harbor which serves the Port of Manila

Manila Bay in Manila

Manila Bay is a natural harbor which serves the Port of Manila (on Luzon), in the Philippines.The bay is considered to be one of the best natural harbors in Southeast Asia and one of the finest in the world. Strategically located around the capital city of the Philippines, Manila Bay facilitated commerce and trade between the Philippines and its neighbouring countries,[1] becoming the gateway for socio-economic development even prior to Spanish occupation. With an area of 1,994 km2 (769.9 sq mi), and a coastline of 190 km (118.1 mi), Manila Bay is situated in the western part of Luzon and is bounded by Cavite and Metro Manila on the east, Bulacan and Pampanga on the north, and Bataan on the west and northwest.[2] Manila Bay drains approximately 17,000 km2 (6,563.7 sq mi) of watershed area, with the Pampanga River contributing about 49% of the freshwater influx. With an average depth of 17 m (55.8 ft), it is estimated to have a total volume of 28.9 billion cubic meters (28.9 cubic km). Entrance to the bay is 19 km (11.8 mi) wide and expands to a width of 48 km (29.8 mi). However, width of the bay varies from 22 km (13.7 mi) at its mouth and expanding to 60 km (37.3 mi) at its widest point.[2]

The islands of Corregidor and Caballo divides the entrance into two channels,[2] about 2 miles (3.2 km) towards the North and 6.5 miles (10.5 km) wide on the South side. Mariveles, in the province of Bataan, is an anchorage just inside the northern entrance and Sangley Point is the former location of Cavite Naval Base. On either side of the bay are volcanic peaks topped with tropical foliage: 40 km to the north is the Bataan Peninsula and to the south is the province of Cavite.

Across the entrance to Manila Bay are several islands, the largest of which is Corregidor, located 3 kilometers from Bataan and, along with the island of Caballo, separates the mouth of the bay into the North and South Channels. In the south channel is El Fraile Island and outside the entrance, and to the south, is Carabao Island. El Fraile, a rocky island some 4 acres (1.6 ha) in area, supports the massive concrete and steel ruins of Fort Drum, an island fortress constructed by the United States Army to defend the southern entrance of the bay. To the immediate north and south are additional harbors, upon which both local and international ports are situated. Large number of ships at the North and South harbors facilitate maritime activities in the bay.[1] Being smaller of the two harbors, the North Harbor is used for inter-island shipping while the South Harbor is used for large ocean-going vessels

- Manila Ocean park: this is one of the newest destinations in the Manila Bay Area. It is owned by the Owners of Singapore's Ocean World in Sentosa Island and also has a mini shopping mall and a boutique Hotel inside the Ocean park.

Operating Hours: Manila Ocean Park is open from 10am – 9pm, Mondays through Sundays.

Entrance Fee: The Entrance Fee for adults is PHP400 (approximately US$10) and PHP350 (approximately US$9) for children.

- The Coconut Palace (by the bay): A place where you can have your wedding reception, a date with your loved one, or just to ooh and aah. ;p

FACTS...FACTS...FACTS...FACTS: It is well-known in our country that former First Lady Imelda Romualdez Marcos "orchestrated" the construction of this "guesthouse", built of coconut wood & shells, to accommodate Pope John Paul II for his 1981 visit, although its EXTRAVAGANCE turned him off so much that he refused to stay there.

Intramuros in Manila

Intramuros in Manila: Intramuros is the old part of Manila and probaply the nicest place to walk around in this huge city. There are many well restored old buildings and you also have the Manila Cathedral there aswell as many other important buildings. In a city that in my opinion does not have many tourist sights, this is certainly one of the biggest must sees.

- The Carlos Celdran walk in Intramuros : About a year ago, I took the Carlos Celdran tour around Intramuros. It is a truly refreshing view of Manila and its history. Carlos himself is a real performer and shares his feelings on the wrongs and rights in the history of Manila. It is a 2 hour walk that is wroth every peso.

- INTRAMUROS (between the walls): Spend an afternoon exploring the old Spanish city of Intramuros which was built as a fortress in the 16th century and eventually destroyed at the end of the 2nd world war as the Americans ended the Japanese occupation. The city was exclusively for the rich, the state buildings, churches, courts, hospitals and the cobbled streets still remain today.Walk on parts of the restored walls, several metres high and a few metres thick. Immigration office is here and the General Post Office, both near the Jones Bridge. It is surrounded by a golf course and if you are approaching from Malate you will probably enter the gate and walk down General Luna Street. Inside the walls are many attractions such as Fort Santiago, Rizal's Shrine, San Agustin Church and museum, Manila Cathedral, many small plazas and modern restaurants, most of which blend in with the surrounding buildings. You can rent a Kalesa (horse and cart) to tour around the place, or you can take a leisurely stroll. The visitors centre is just outside Fort Santiago where you can obtain a map of the old city. If you are coming by the LRT/MRT get off the train at Central and it will be a few minutes walk to the old city

- Fort Santiago-Seat of Old Spanish Power: Fort Santiago (Fuerza de Santiago) is a defense fortress built for Spanish conquistador, Miguel López de Legazpi. The fort is part of the structures of the walled city of Intramuros, in Manila, Philippines. The location of Fort Santiago was also once the site of the palace and kingdom of Rajah Suliman, chieftain of Manila of pre-Spanish era. It was destroyed by the conquistadors upon arriving in 1570, encountering several bloody battles with the Muslims and native Tagalogs. The Spaniards destroyed the native settlements and erected Fuerza de Santiago in 1571.

Marking its entrance at the northwestern tip to Intramuros, Fort Santiago is one of the oldest fortifications of Intramuros. Its construction started in 1571 and it was completed nearly 150 years later by Filipino forced labor. The pre-Spanish settlement of Rajah Sulayman, the last Filipino ruler before the coming of the Spaniards, was a wooden fort, on the ashes of which was built the Spanish fortress which was Spain's major defense position in the islands. It looked out on the sea, towards which its canons were trained to ward off pirates and invaders. It is also known as the "Shrine of Freedom," in memory of the heroic Filipinos imprisoned and killed here during the Spanish and Japanese eras. Partly rebuilt from the ruins of World War II, it is now a park and promenade housing a resident theater company, PETA, which used ramparts, an old garrison, and a small chapel as theaters for both traditional and modern plays.

Today the fort serves as a museum which houses well-preserved legacies of the Spanish Government, Jose Rizal (which is called the Plaza de Armas), Rizal Shrine, and the prison dungeons for criminals used by the Spanish Officials. José Rizal, the country's national hero, was imprisoned here before his execution in 1896. A visit to Manila is not complete until you make you last respects to this great man.

- reliving the past: intramuros is a spanish word meaning "within the walls". This city within the city is the old manila. sadly much of it was destroyed during the war but there are still other interesting sites to see, like museums, old church- the San Agustin Church (a UNESCO world heritage site).

- Sayaw sa Bangko - Philippine local dance: See and experience the Philippines national dance at the Barbaras Restaurant in Intramuros, Manila. Barbaras restaurants' full buffet dinner is at 550.00 (including tax) per person and witness artist performing local dances.

Facts: Sayaw sa Bangko ("dance on bench") is a folk dance from the Pangasinan province of the Philippines. Performers dance on top of a narrow bench. Its fun to watch male dancers lifting the female dancers on the other edge of the bench. They wear colorful filipino designs costumes and they were smiling throughout the performance. Indeed a filipino culture.

- Tinikling - Philippines National Dance: See and experience the Philippines national dance at the Barbaras Restaurant in Intramuros, Manila. Barbaras restaurants' full buffet dinner is at 550.00 (including tax) per person and witness artist performing local dances.

After which, they are inviting all guest to try and experience the Tinikling (teeh-NEEHK-ling). This Philippines dance will test ones cleverness. See photos above.

Facts: The English equivalent of “tinikling” is “bamboo dance.” More than one oral history of the tinikling dance has been handed down through the generations.
Smooth three-inch bamboo poles that are approximately seven to eight feet long and dancers gracefully steps and jumps between two bamboo poles.

- Walk around the historical site: This walled city is surrounded by a golf course and is one of the quiter places in Manila.Built around 1600 by the spanish but heavily bombed in WW2 ,this is a nice area to walk around one of the most historical areas in Manila.

Cabbie runs off with tourists' luggage at NAIA

Cabbie runs off with tourists' luggage at NAIA

By Perseus Echeminada The Philippine Star Updated June 06, 2012 12:00 AM 0 comment to this post

MANILA, Philippines - Two tourists lost their luggage, as well as their passports and plane tickets, when the driver of a taxi that had brought them to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) ran off with their possessions Monday night, police said yesterday.

Robin Hugh Kimpton, 67, of New Zealand and Ester Jana, 35, of Papua New Guinea boarded a Modern Chariot taxi (UVD-772) from Malate, Manila to NAIA.

Upon arriving at the airport, the taxi driver – who remains unidentified – waited for the tourists to get out of the cab, then sped off with the luggage still in the vehicle’s trunk.

The tourists lost P100,000, their laptop computers, cameras and cell phones.

Pasay police officers are tracking down the taxi driver.

http://www.philstar.com

Manila Airport Coupon Taxi Service, Manila Airport Taxi Service

Manila Airport Coupon Taxi Service is offered at very economical “fixed” or “coupon” rates from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminals 1,2 and 3 to any destination in Luzon and vice-versa using current model compact sedans and AUVs. Drop-off and Pick-up are fixed per destination and determined at transaction or reservation time. All payments are duly receipted and accounted for. The coupon taxi system prevents fare haggling and overcharging of passengers by taxi drivers.

In the past 20 years, NCLPI has the proven track record in reliable and quality airport coupon taxi service emulated by its competitors and appreciated by its numerous loyal passengers.

NCLPI offers the following long term vehicle operating lease services:

Operating Lease Service is offered at a minimum of one (1) year rental of a vehicle, which allows the renter a full use of the unit. Operating Leases are availed of by companies who want to concentrate on their core business without going through the hassle of operating and maintaining its transport requirements such as repairs and maintenance, vehicle registration, insurance coverage and claims processing, replacement or hiring of unit in case of accident and repairs and selling of used vehicles. Chauffeur-driven Operating Leases also free the renter from the hassles of hiring, employing, training and administering chauffeurs including replacements.

We have been catering to a number of multinational companies, banks, government agencies and top domestic companies.

NCLPI offers the following short term vehicle rental services:

Car Rental Services (Self-drive or Chauffeur-drive) on daily, weekly and monthly basis can be availed of at the Main Office at Tramo Avenue Pasay, NAIA Arrival Terminals 1,2 and 3 Phone A Car outlets in Makati Area, Manila Area, Ortigas Area, Taguig Area, South Area and at Cagayan de Oro City in Velez St. downtown outlet.

NCLPI offers the following hotel transport services:

Hotel Limousine/ Hotel Taxi Services covering chauffeur-driven unmarked high-end vehicles and compact sedans and vans are offered to Hotels who demand premium service for their guests’ transport requirements such as Airport Transfer, Hourly Car Hire, Drop–off and Pick-up.

These premium transport services can be availed of at the leading Metro Manila hotels where NCLPI is the accredited limousine transport operator, namely:The Peninsula Manila, Fraser Place Serviced Residences, Hyatt Hotel and Casino Manila, Microtel Mall of Asia, The Hotel of H20, Best Western Premier F1 Hotel, Manila Pavilion Hotel, Linden Suites, Discovery Suites, Bellevue Hotel and Pryce Plaza in Cagayan de Oro City.

NCLPI offers the following airport taxi services which offers to arriving and departing passengers of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminals 1,2 and 3:

Airport Tourist Metered Taxi Service is offered to address the demand for a dedicated airport “metered taxi” service by a segment of arriving passengers using yellow compact sedans equipped with receipt-issuing meters. Flagdown rates for the first 500 meters and every succeeding 300 meters had been duly approved by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).

NCLPI offers the following point to point and hourly car hire services:

Phone-A-Car, Inter-City Transfer, Coupon Taxi Service is offered to individuals and corporate clients as a better alternative to the public metered taxi in terms of safety, honest rates and cleanliness. It is also a cheaper alternative to Hotel Limousine and Taxi Service. The rates to Metro Manila destinations are fixed and payments are duly receipted at our Phone-A-Car counters.

Our Phone-A-Car Service Outlets are in: Makati Area, Manila Area Ortigas Area, Taguig Area,       South Area, and at Cagayan de Oro City in Velez St.


Contact Numbers for Reservation and Inquiries

Reservation Center
Address: 2317 Aurora Boulevard, Formerly Tramo, Pasay City
Telephone Numbers: (632) 854-7099; (632) 854-8331; (632) 854-6941
Fax Number: (632) 852-6599
E-Mail Address: nissanreservation@nissanrentacar.com
Website: www.nissanrentacar.com
Business Hours : 08:00AM-5:00PM (M-F) - Saturday & Holidays, Sunday - Closed

Manila Limousine Service, Limousine Manila Airport

Manila Limousine Service, Limousine Manila Airport

Welcome to Aj Limousine. Our goal is to serve our clients with dependable, personal and affordable transportation services with the largest fleet of luxury Town car, SUV's & Vans, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.We service Hobby Airport, Bush Intercontinental Airport and the whole city of Houston , surrounding areas and the Port of Galveston. We offers a wide range of transportation services to suit the needs of our diverse clientele from corporate and small business to private clients. Our pricing is competitive and we offer special rates to high volume clients. All of our vehicles are completely licensed and insured.

The most Important thing regarding Airport Transportation is that it should be on time and we do keep this factor above all. Our chauffeurs stand out as being the best in their profession.

Our courteous drivers will be a welcome greeting in helping you get to where you need to go. Our goal is to reduce the stresses of travel and to help you sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.

We are dedicated to providing a safe, comfortable, and professional service to each and every one of our clients. We offer this service at extremely fair rates. It is the combination of these that makes AJ Limousine so unique.

Moving you smoothly, safe, and on time is our expertise. "For your protection AJ Limousine is fully insured and Licensed by the City of Houston" If you have any questions or concerns feel free to contact us at 281-701-9013.

Aj-Limousine proudly provides 24/7 full Ground Transportation service for Houston , Galveston IAH & Hobby Airport. We are committed to providing you with safe and reliable, World - class service with the newest fleet and professionally trained drivers. Our pricing is very competitive and we offer special rates to our high volume clients.

AJ Limousine is licensed and certified in compliance with all Houston TX State and Federal Transportation Regulations + Houston Airport Authorities. Each of our drivers is carefully selected and properly trained, and furthermore, the City of Houston, going though methodical screening by the Houston Police Department and by the FBI, Licenses each one. Our vehicle fleet consists of luxurious, top of the line Lincoln Sedans, SUV's &, fully equipped Ford Vans. All Vehicles are Fully insured for your protection.

We are open 24/7 and looking forward to serving you!

Coupon taxi or yellow taxi from Manila airport ?

Coupon taxi or yellow taxi from Manila airport ?

I'm a female solo traveller arriving at 11:50 at night at Terminal 3. Would like to know if coupon taxi is still available at airport. I feel this is a safer option for me to take to my hotel in Paranaque. Another option would be hotel pick-up if available. Any suggestion is much appreciated. Salamat guid.

- Coupon and yellow taxis are available 24 hrs a day at all terminals

- The taxi details will be recorded by the taxi dispatsher. Don't worry - you will be safe.

- I favor the coupon taxi (glad they're still available) as the rate is fixed according to destination. Tho both are reliable and safe, my experience with yellow airport taxi drivers in the past hasn't been pleasant. Thanks again.

- Coupon taxi rates is around 440pesos for the outermost part of paranaque.

- Correct me I am wrong. When I was in T3, I can't find any yellow taxi but I can find white metered taxi.

- During our visit in January this year, I do remember taking a white taxi from the airport. The driver had mentioned that he had to have new meter installed (a govt. requirement and quite

expensive, too). Altho he said that he had it on, we were unable to see the meter from where we were seated in the back. Even with us knowing where the hotel is located (Tambo, Paranaque, a 10-15 min taxi ride at around midnite), it still cost us 500 pesos (his big smile is worth it!).

At least with coupon taxi, the exact fare is shown altho a tip is still expected.

- To mousehunt: That's odd, I know that the ordinary white metered taxis are not allowed at Terminal 3 except for a few if I'm not mistaken. I know that Terminal 3 is a haven of yellow airport taxis as they have a garage at Terminal 3.

I agree that the coupon taxi is more reliable than the yellow airport taxi as you already know how much you're going to pay before you arrive at your destination. It is wiser to use the coupon taxi during rush hour as even you are stuck in traffic for an hour you don't have to pay anything more than what is agreed upon.

- I always use T3 and the only available cabs are the airport yellow taxis. Havent had any bad expereience with them yet, though more expensive, you dont really have a choice.

- Coupon taxi are always more expensive than yellow taxi. To get to Makaki, it was about 200 pesos more than yellow.....go with Yellow taxi...even taxi..will not cost that much more with a meter. Also, for longer trips, lets say to Angeles, you can negotiate with Yellow..you can NOT with Coupon. We got a yellow to Angeles, Airport for P2000...more than once.


Coupon taxi or yellow taxi from airport

I'm a female solo traveller arriving at 11:50 at night at Terminal 3. Would like to know if coupon taxi is still available at airport. I feel this is a safer option for me to take to my hotel in Paranaque. Another option would be hotel pick-up if available. Any suggestion is much appreciated. Salamat guid.

- Coupon and yellow taxis are available 24 hrs a day at all terminals

- The taxi details will be recorded by the taxi dispatsher. Don't worry - you will be safe.

- I favor the coupon taxi (glad they're still available) as the rate is fixed according to destination. Tho both are reliable and safe, my experience with yellow airport taxi drivers in the past hasn't been pleasant. Thanks again.

- Coupon taxi rates is around 440pesos for the outermost part of paranaque.

- Correct me I am wrong. When I was in T3, I can't find any yellow taxi but I can find white metered taxi.

- During our visit in January this year, I do remember taking a white taxi from the airport. The driver had mentioned that he had to have new meter installed (a govt. requirement and quite

expensive, too). Altho he said that he had it on, we were unable to see the meter from where we were seated in the back. Even with us knowing where the hotel is located (Tambo, Paranaque, a 10-15 min taxi ride at around midnite), it still cost us 500 pesos (his big smile is worth it!).

At least with coupon taxi, the exact fare is shown altho a tip is still expected.

- To mousehunt: That's odd, I know that the ordinary white metered taxis are not allowed at Terminal 3 except for a few if I'm not mistaken. I know that Terminal 3 is a haven of yellow airport taxis as they have a garage at Terminal 3.

I agree that the coupon taxi is more reliable than the yellow airport taxi as you already know how much you're going to pay before you arrive at your destination. It is wiser to use the coupon taxi during rush hour as even you are stuck in traffic for an hour you don't have to pay anything more than what is agreed upon.

- I always use T3 and the only available cabs are the airport yellow taxis. Havent had any bad expereience with them yet, though more expensive, you dont really have a choice.

- Coupon taxi are always more expensive than yellow taxi. To get to Makaki, it was about 200 pesos more than yellow.....go with Yellow taxi...even taxi..will not cost that much more with a meter. Also, for longer trips, lets say to Angeles, you can negotiate with Yellow..you can NOT with Coupon. We got a yellow to Angeles, Airport for P2000...more than once.


Coupon taxi or yellow taxi from airport

I'm a female solo traveller arriving at 11:50 at night at Terminal 3. Would like to know if coupon taxi is still available at airport. I feel this is a safer option for me to take to my hotel in Paranaque. Another option would be hotel pick-up if available. Any suggestion is much appreciated. Salamat guid.

- Coupon and yellow taxis are available 24 hrs a day at all terminals

- The taxi details will be recorded by the taxi dispatsher. Don't worry - you will be safe.

- I favor the coupon taxi (glad they're still available) as the rate is fixed according to destination. Tho both are reliable and safe, my experience with yellow airport taxi drivers in the past hasn't been pleasant. Thanks again.

- Coupon taxi rates is around 440pesos for the outermost part of paranaque.

- Correct me I am wrong. When I was in T3, I can't find any yellow taxi but I can find white metered taxi.

- During our visit in January this year, I do remember taking a white taxi from the airport. The driver had mentioned that he had to have new meter installed (a govt. requirement and quite

expensive, too). Altho he said that he had it on, we were unable to see the meter from where we were seated in the back. Even with us knowing where the hotel is located (Tambo, Paranaque, a 10-15 min taxi ride at around midnite), it still cost us 500 pesos (his big smile is worth it!).

At least with coupon taxi, the exact fare is shown altho a tip is still expected.

- To mousehunt: That's odd, I know that the ordinary white metered taxis are not allowed at Terminal 3 except for a few if I'm not mistaken. I know that Terminal 3 is a haven of yellow airport taxis as they have a garage at Terminal 3.

I agree that the coupon taxi is more reliable than the yellow airport taxi as you already know how much you're going to pay before you arrive at your destination. It is wiser to use the coupon taxi during rush hour as even you are stuck in traffic for an hour you don't have to pay anything more than what is agreed upon.

- I always use T3 and the only available cabs are the airport yellow taxis. Havent had any bad expereience with them yet, though more expensive, you dont really have a choice.

- Coupon taxi are always more expensive than yellow taxi. To get to Makaki, it was about 200 pesos more than yellow.....go with Yellow taxi...even taxi..will not cost that much more with a meter. Also, for longer trips, lets say to Angeles, you can negotiate with Yellow..you can NOT with Coupon. We got a yellow to Angeles, Airport for P2000...more than once.

San Jose Airport, San Jose Airport

San Jose Airport (Filipino: Paliparan ng San Jose) (IATA: SJI, ICAO: RPUH), formerly known as McGuire Field, is an airport serving the general area of San Jose, Occidental Mindoro in the Philippines. It is one of three airports in Occidental Mindoro, the others being Mamburao Airport and Lubang Airport. The airport is classified as a Principal class 1 domestic airport by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, an agency of the Department of Transportation and Communications that is responsible for the operations of not only this airport but also of all other airports in the Philippines, except the major international airports.

Originally an American air facility, the airport was formerly named after World War II 5th Air Force ace Major Thomas McGuire.

San Jose Airport (Filipino: Paliparan ng San Jose) (IATA: SJI, ICAO: RPUH), formerly known as McGuire Field, is an airport serving the general area of San Jose, Occidental Mindoro in the Philippines. It is one of three airports in Occidental Mindoro, the others being Mamburao Airport and Lubang Airport. The airport is classified as a Principal class 1 domestic airport by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, an agency of the Department of Transportation and Communications that is responsible for the operations of not only this airport but also of all other airports in the Philippines, except the major international airports.

Originally an American air facility, the airport was formerly named after World War II 5th Air Force ace Major Thomas McGuire.

Roxas Airport, Roxas Airports

Roxas Airport (Filipino: Paliparan ng Roxas, Hiligaynon: Hulugpaan sang Roxas) (IATA: RXS, ICAO: RPVR) is an airport serving the general area of Roxas City, the capital of the province of Capiz, in the Philippines. The airport is classified as a Class 1 principal airport, by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, a body of the Department of Transportation and Communications that is responsible for the operations of not only this airport but also of all other airports in the Philippines except the major international airports.

Roxas Airport (Filipino: Paliparan ng Roxas, Hiligaynon: Hulugpaan sang Roxas) (IATA: RXS, ICAO: RPVR) is an airport serving the general area of Roxas City, the capital of the province of Capiz, in the Philippines. The airport is classified as a Class 1 principal airport, by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, a body of the Department of Transportation and Communications that is responsible for the operations of not only this airport but also of all other airports in the Philippines except the major international airports.

Roxas Airport (Filipino: Paliparan ng Roxas, Hiligaynon: Hulugpaan sang Roxas) (IATA: RXS, ICAO: RPVR) is an airport serving the general area of Roxas City, the capital of the province of Capiz, in the Philippines. The airport is classified as a Class 1 principal airport, by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, a body of the Department of Transportation and Communications that is responsible for the operations of not only this airport but also of all other airports in the Philippines except the major international airports.

Pagadian Airport

Pagadian Airport (Filipino: Paliparan ng Pagadian, Cebuano: Tugpahanan sa Pagadian) (IATA: PAG, ICAO: RPMP), classified Principal Airport Class 1 or major domestic by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), is the airport serving the City of Pagadian, the rest of the Province of Zamboanga del Sur, and the Province of Zamboanga Sibugay in the Philippines.[1] The CAAP is the arm of the Department of Transportation and Communications which operates all the airports in the Philippines except the major international airports.

The airport is located approximately 5 kilometers from the city center and is situated in Barangays Muricay and Tiguma, Pagadian City.

In 2006, the airport was subjected to a PHP 379.46 million-worth (8.72 million USD) rehabilitation and expansion project, pursuant of facility upgrade. The project was completed in December 2009.

On October 9, 2009, Former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo inaugurated the renovated airport. The first aircraft to land on the rehabilitated runway was a Fokker 70 of the Philippine Air Force carrying the Presidential Security Group (PSG) followed by a chartered Dornier 328 of the Royal Star Aviation with tail number RP-C8328 carrying the presidential entourage. The chartered jet from San Miguel Corporation with tail number RP-C8576 which served as the presidential jet was last to land.

The airport officially recommenced commercial operation only on April 27, 2010 accommodating the first ever Cebu Pacific flight from Cebu City to Pagadian. The same airline also sent a plane from Manila to Pagadian on June 9, 2010 which commenced the airline's Pagadian to/from Manila flight offering.

Under Aquino's PPP program, the airport is scheduled to receive 42 million subsidy for upgrading of its facilities.[2] This includes extension of runway, widening of taxiway, rehabilitation and improvement of passenger terminal building, improvement and expansion of vehicular parking area, construction of drainage system, and construction of perimeter fence.

Airphil Express, a subsidiary of Philippine Airlines, recently started flights Pagadian to/from Manila

Naga Airport

Naga Airport (Filipino: Paliparan ng Naga, Bikol: Palayogan nin Naga) (IATA: WNP, ICAO: RPUN) is an airport serving the general area of Naga City, located in the province of Camarines Sur in the Philippines, as well as the city's metropolitan area. Although the airport is named after Naga, it is actually located in the provincial capital, Pili.

The airport is classified as a Class 1 principal (major domestic) airport by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, a body of the Department of Transportation and Communications that is responsible for the operations of not only this airport but also of all other airports in the Philippines except the major international airports

On December 15, 1993, a Philippine Air Force C-130H Hercules crashed on Mt. Manase, in Barangay Tanag, Libmanan, Camarines Sur, as it was approaching Naga Airport. The plane was on a typhoon relief mission. The total fatalities were 30, including 6 crewmembers

Legazpi Airport

Legazpi Airport (Filipino: Paliparan ng Legazpi, Bikol: Palayogan nin Legazpi) (IATA: LGP, ICAO: RPLP) in the Philippines is a major airport in the Bicol Region, serving the vicinity of Legazpi City in Albay. It has a single runway with dimensions of 2280 x 36 meters, longer than those of the former airports of Bacolod City (1958 x 30 meters) and Mandurriao in Iloilo City (2100 x 43 meters), the airport can handle medium-sized civilian jets and military aircraft.

The jet age came to Legazpi in the late 1960s and by the 1970s Philippine Airlines (PAL) introduced regular service to/from Manila using British Aircraft Corporation's BAC 1-11's. In the late 1980s PAL introduced Boeing 737-300s. YS-11's provided airlink to Mactan, Cebu, Masbate, and Virac. When PAL phased out the YS-11's and the short-lived Shorts SD-360 'Sunriser,' Fokker 50s replaced them. Prior to the debilitating labor strike in 1998 which caused PAL to temporarily cease operation, Legazpi Airport served as the airline's hub in Bicol, serving Manila, Cebu, Masbate, Virac, even Catarman, Samar. Today, it serves not only local clients but also transient passengers from southern Camarines Sur and the province of Sorsogon.

Aside from PAL, Filipinas Orient Airways and Air Manila International served the airport prior to 1972, the declaration of Martial Law in the Philippines. Through the years, other airlines came and went: Air Philippines for some time served Legazpi with YS-11's and 737-200s. Asian Spirit served Pili for flights to/from Manila and Cebu and has since ceased operations with six million pesos in collectibles from local (Naga or Pili) franchisees. Asian Spirit might introduce flights to Legazpi aside from its sectors in Virac and Masbate. At present, Aboitiz also regularly calls on Legazpi. South East Asian Airlines, using the 19-seat LET-410, plies Cebu-Legazpi-Cebu Mondays and Fridays.

When Pope John Paul II visited the Philippines in 1981, his itinerary included Legazpi City. The Papal plane was a chartered PAL Boeing 727 tri-jet. President Ferdinand Marcos arrived in his own jet; First Lady Imelda, and the then-Minister of Defense, Juan Ponce Enrile, arrived with their own retinues on separate jets.

In the mid-1990s a Harrier jumpjet of the US Marines made an emergency landing here. Nearby Alicia Hotel housed the unexpected guests for days while the aircraft was being repaired. During that time, day and night, the airport site became an aviation museum of sorts with curious on-lookers taking a glimpse at the heavily guarded fighter plane, exactly the same piece used in the Schwarzenegger film True Lies.

In February 2000, during a lull in nearby Mayon Volcano's eruption (which suspended regular commercial service), a chartered Boeing 727 tri-jet from Guam landed, bringing relief goods for evacuees.

On September 15, 2001, coming home from her state visit to Japan, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo flew to Legazpi non-stop from Tokyo using a chartered PAL Airbus A320, highlighting the capability of the airport to handle international air traffic. On November 26, 2003, a Cebu Pacific DC-9-32 brought delegates to the Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA) delegates on a charter flight from Cebu.

Plans

Although operating as sunrise-sunset (SR-SS) due to lack of instrument landing system (ILS), the airport can handle night landings and take-off but only on prior notice.

The airport is up for upgrading. It has no ILS such that low ceiling during inclement weather causes flight cancellations, to the chagrin of passengers. It is also only about 12 kilometers from the crater of Mayon Volcano; during eruptions, flights are canceled because of the danger posed by ash fall. The Regional Development Council had previously approved the feasibility study to transfer the airport to a site some 27 kilometers from the crater of Mayon, in barangay Bariis south of Legazpi City. Aside from the advantage of its being way out of ashfall's reach, it is midway between Legazpi and the province of Sorsogon and the emerging eco-tourism destination of Donsol with its whale sharks. Of late, some politicians, though, were able to maneuver that the site be transferred to Alobo, Daraga which at 15 kilometers from Mayon's crater, is only two or three kilometers farther from the present runway. Also, planes using Alobo will take the same approach used at present: through Jovellar/Camalig areas that are prone to ash fall during eruptions; planes will also fly over the urban areas of Daraga and Legazpi. If it will be Bariis, approach/takeoff will be along thinly populated land; even over the sea (Poliqui Bay and Albay Gulf), making 24/7 operations feasible and practical.

In early 2006, the proposed Southern Luzon International Airport was unveiled to the public in major newspapers. It would be built in the municipality of Daraga.

Dipolog Airport

Dipolog Airport (Filipino: Paliparan ng Dipolog, Cebuano: Tugpahanan sa Dipolog, Chavacano and Spanish: Aeropuerto de Dipolog) (IATA: DPL, ICAO: RPMG) is the main airport serving the general area of Dipolog City, the capital of Zamboanga del Norte, in the Philippines. The airport is one of the busiest in Mindanao, especially considering its classification. The airport is classified as a secondary airport by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), a body of the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) that is responsible for the operations of not only this airport but also of all other airports in the Philippines except the major international airports.

In 2005, the airport handled 75,751 passengers. Its passenger traffic has grown at least 52% from year 2000 statistical figures with an average annual growth rate of around 10.4%

Awang Airport

Awang Airport (Filipino: Paliparan ng Awang) (IATA: CBO, ICAO: RPMC) is an airport serving the general area of Cotabato City, located in the province of Maguindanao in the Philippines. The airport is classified as a Class 1 principal (major domestic) airport by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, a body of the Department of Transportation and Communications that is responsible for the operations of not only this airport but also of all other airports in the Philippines except the major international airports.

While the airport services Cotabato City, the airport is located in (and derives its name from) its location in Barangay Awang in neighboring Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao.

Lumbia Airport, Paliparan ng Lumbia, Tugpahanan sa Lumbia

Lumbia Airport (Filipino: Paliparan ng Lumbia, Cebuano: Tugpahanan sa Lumbia) (IATA: CGY, ICAO: RPML), also known as Cagayan de Oro Airport, is a major domestic airport serving the general areas of Cagayan de Oro City and Northern Mindanao region, located in the province of Misamis Oriental in the Philippines. It is the second busiest airport in Mindanao, after Francisco Bangoy International Airport in Davao City.

The airport is classified as a Class 1 principal (major domestic) airport by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, a body of the Department of Transportation and Communications that is responsible for the operations of not only this airport but also of all other airports in the Philippines except the major International airports.

Lumbia Airport takes its name from its location in Barangay Lumbia, Cagayan de Oro City. It serves as a minor air base of the Philippine Air Force, with service equipment of OV-10 Bronco aircraft as well as UH-1 Huey and MD-520MG Defender helicopters.Laguindingan International Airport currently under construction in the Municipality of Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental, some 46 kilometers southwest of Cagayan de Oro City. When it is finished, the International airport will serve Northern Mindanao including its major cities; Iligan and Cagayan de Oro. Construction of the International airport will be completed by January 2012.

Bancasi Airport, Paliparan ng Bancasi, Cebuano: Tugpahanan sa Bancasi

Bancasi Airport (Filipino: Paliparan ng Bancasi, Cebuano: Tugpahanan sa Bancasi) (IATA: BXU, ICAO: RPME), also known as Butuan Airport, is an airport serving the general area of Butuan City, located in the province of Agusan del Norte in the Philippines. It is the only airport in the province and largest in the Caraga region. The airport is classified as a trunkline airport, or a major commercial airport, by the Air Transportation Office, a body of the Department of Transportation and Communications that is responsible for the operations of not only this airport but also of all other airports in the Philippines except the major international airports.

Bancasi Airport will receive Php 45.5 million pesos in subsidy for expansion of the apron, improvement and expansion of vehicular parking area, construction of drainage system, and construction of concrete hollow block fence

Zamboanga International Airport

Zamboanga International Airport (Filipino (Tagalog): Paliparang Pandaigdig ng Zamboanga; Chavacano and Spanish: Aeropuerto Internacional de Zamboanga) (IATA: ZAM, ICAO: RPMZ) is the main airport serving Zamboanga City in the Philippines. The airport is Mindanao's second-busiest airport after Francisco Bangoy International Airport in Davao City.[2] The airport covers a total land area of 270 hectares.

The airport is officially classified as an international airport by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, the same agency that runs not only Zamboanga International Airport, but all other airports in the Philippines except the major international airports

Subic Bay International Airport

Subic Bay International Airport (Filipino: Paliparang Pandaigdig ng Look ng Subic) or SBIA (IATA: SFS, ICAO: RPLB) serves as a secondary airport and a main diversion airport of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. It is also the airport serving the immediate area of the Subic Bay Freeport Zone and the general area of Olongapo City in the Philippines. This airport used to be the Naval Air Station Cubi Point of the United States Navy. Its airport terminal has 2 gates.

In January 2010, Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority Administrator and CEO Armand C. Arreza expressed interest in closing Subic Bay International Airport in favor of converting the area to a logistics hub.[1] This was due to the closure of FedEx's delivery hub, which is located within the airport complex, and the planned expansion of the nearby Diosdado Macapagal International Airport.

In December 2010, Guam-based Aviation Concepts has set up fixed-based operations [2] as a full-service business jet center at Subic Bay International Airport, which has made it Asia’s largest private aviation firm in terms of hangar space (100,000 square feet).

Spirit of Manila Airlines expressed that it will start operations at Subic Bay International Airport to start by August or September 2011 providing flights between Subic and Macau

Puerto Princesa Airport, Puerto Princesa International Airport

Puerto Princesa International Airport (Filipino: Paliparang Pandaigdig ng Puerto Princesa) (IATA: PPS, ICAO: RPVP) is an airport serving the general area of Puerto Princesa City, located in the province of Palawan in the Philippines. It is classified as an international airport by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines. Recently, Philippine President Aquino intended to make the airport one of the primary gateways of the Philippines aside from Clark International Airport in Angeles City and Ninoy Aquino International Airport in the capital Manila. The airport is the main gateway to the Puerto Princesa Underground River.

Ninoy Aquino Airport, Ninoy Aquino International Airport

Ninoy Aquino International Airport

"Manila Airport" redirects here. For the airport serving Manila, Arkansas, see Manila Municipal Airport

The Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Filipino: Paliparang Pandaigdig ng Ninoy Aquino) or NAIA (play /ˈnaɪ.ə/), also known as Manila International Airport (IATA: MNL, ICAO: RPLL), is the airport serving the general area of Manila and its surrounding metropolitan area. Located along the border between Pasay and Parañaque, about seven kilometers south of Manila proper, and southwest of Makati, NAIA is the main international gateway for travelers to the Philippines and is the hub for all Philippine airlines. It is managed by the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA), a branch of the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC).

Officially, NAIA is the only airport serving the Manila area. However, in practice, both NAIA and Clark International Airport, located in the Clark Freeport Zone in Angeles, Pampanga serve the Manila area, with CIA catering mostly to low-cost carriers that avail themselves of the lower landing fees than those charged at NAIA. In the long term CIA is set to replace NAIA as the primary airport of the Philippines.[2] The airport is named after the late Senator Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino, Jr., who was assassinated at the airport in 1983. In 2009 the airport saw growth of 11.4% to 24.1 million passengers.[3] In 2010, NAIA terminal carried 27.1 million passengers, making it to the top 50 of the world's busiest airports by passenger traffic. In 2011, all terminals at NAIA handled a record breaking annual passenger traffic of 29,552,264 making one of the busiest airports in Asia.

Mactan-Cebu Airport, Mactan-Cebu International Airport

Mactan-Cebu International Airport (Filipino: Paliparang Pandaigdig ng Mactan-Cebu, Cebuano: Tugpahanang Pangkalibutan sa Mactan-Sugbo) (IATA: CEB, ICAO: RPVM) is a major international airport in the Visayas region of the Philippines. It is located in Lapu-Lapu City, Mactan Island, Metro Cebu and is the country's second primary gateway. The airport is managed by the Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority.

The airport property covers an area of 797 hectares. The airport has a single 3,300 meter runway that is complemented by a full-length taxiway. The terminal building has a capacity of handling 4.5 million passengers annually on two wings, the domestic wing and the international wing.

Mactan-Cebu International Airport is a major trade center in the south for both domestic and international traffic. Its traffic is continually increasing and is now serving 602 commercial flights weekly transporting 10,223 passengers daily.

About 54% of the flight operations at Mactan-Cebu International Airport are commercial carriers while the remaining 46% are military aircraft and general aviation operations.

Over the last 15 years, Mactan-Cebu International Airport’s passenger traffic has grown at an annual average of 21% for International while the domestic grew at an annual average of 5%. Mactan-Cebu International Airport is currently served by 13 passenger airlines and 5 cargo airlines.

Mactan-Cebu International Airport is one of the major cargo airports in the Philippines. Air cargo volume in 2007 is 53,472,924 kg. International cargo volume increased at an average growth rate of 47% annually while the domestic cargo grew 4% annually.

The airport handled 5.79 million passengers on both domestic and international routes in 2010.

Laoag International Airport, Laoag Airport

Laoag International Airport (Filipino: Paliparang Pandaigdig ng Laoag, Ilokano: Sangalubong a Pagtayaban ti Laoag) (IATA: LAO, ICAO: RPLI) is the main airport serving the general area of Laoag City, the capital city of the province of Ilocos Norte in the Philippines. It is the only airport in Ilocos Norte and is the northernmost international airport in the Philippines by geographical location. The airport is a popular charter destination for tourists from China.

It has one 2,420-meter runway[2] and is designated as a secondary/alternate international airport by the Air Transportation Office, a body of the Department of Transportation and Communications that is responsible for the operations of not only this airport but also of all other airports in the Philippines except the major international airports

Kalibo International Airport, Kalibo International Airport

Kalibo International Airport (Filipino: Paliparang Pandaigdig ng Kalibo, Hiligaynon: Pangkalibutan nga Hulugpaan sang Kalibo, Akeanon: Pangkalibutan nga Paeuparan it Kalibo) (IATA: KLO, ICAO: RPVK) is an airport that serves the general area of Kalibo, the capital of the province of Aklan in the Philippines, and is one of two airports serving Boracay, the other being Godofredo P. Ramos Airport in the town of Malay. It is the fastest growing airport in the Philippines in terms of passenger traffic with more than 50 growth in 2010. The airport is classified as an international airport by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, a body of the Department of Transportation and Communications responsible for the operations of all airports in the Philippines except major international airports.

The airport is about ten minutes from the main area of Kalibo. Kalibo International Airport services international destinations such as Seoul-Incheon, Busan, Shanghai, Chengdu, Taipei, Beijing, and Hong Kong.

On March 31, 2008, construction of the airport's new terminal building commenced. The said construction is part of the 130-million peso fund pledged by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in 2007 for the upgrade of the airport which is being geared to become an international landmark for tourism. The package includes 80 million pesos for the new terminal, while 50 million was released in 2009 by the Department of Budget and Management for the installation of an Instrument Landing System (ILS).[2]

The Kalibo International Airport boasts of the busiest international flight activity in Western Visayas. Regular and chartered flights and accommodated thousands of travelers during the holidays from Asian routes to the capital town of Kalibo.[3] Kalibo International Airport is set for massive upgrade with the 3 billion pesos budget approved by DOTC with the support of Sec. Mar Roxas and CAAP officials.[4] The construction of the new terminal building will start as soon as possible it also includes widening and extension of the runway from 2300 to 2600 meters, apron and tarmac expansion plus additional aircraft parking and airport lights and additional vehicular parking.

Iloilo International Airport, Iloilo Airport

Iloilo International Airport

Iloilo International Airport (Filipino: Paliparang Pandaigdig ng Iloilo, Hiligaynon: Pangkalibutan nga Hulugpaan sang Iloilo) (IATA: ILO, ICAO: RPVI) is the airport serving the general area of Iloilo City, the capital city of the province of Iloilo and the regional center of the Western Visayas region in the Philippines. It opened its doors to commercial traffic on June 14, 2007 after a decade of planning and construction, replacing Mandurriao Airport in Iloilo City proper which had been in service for over seventy years. As a result, the new airport inherited its IATA and ICAO airport codes, as well as its position as the fourth-busiest airport in the Philippines,[1] from its predecessor.[2] Despite being called an "International" airport, it is officially designated as a Class 1 Principal (Major Domestic) Airport by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, the body responsible for the operations of all airports in the country. It is the first airport in both Western Visayas and the island of Panay to be built to international standards, and one of the four airports in the region planned to be an international gateway.

The airport is located 19 kilometers (12 mi) northwest of Iloilo City on a 188-hectare (460-acre) site in Barangay Duyan-Duyan, split between the municipalities of Cabatuan, where the airport proper is located, and Santa Barbara, where the airport entrance and access road are located.[3] The airport complex consists of a single runway, various administrative and maintenance buildings, waste sorting and water treatment facilities, a power generating station, a cargo terminal and a main passenger terminal.[4] Its location on the Tomas Confesor Highway, a major highway transversing the island, makes the airport accessible from all parts of Iloilo and Panay by road, while its proximity to the currently defunct Panay Railways network could potentially link the airport to the rest of Panay by rail.

Built in slightly over 30 months, Iloilo International Airport is one of the largest airports to be constructed in the Philippines. At its inauguration, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo remarked that the airport was the most beautiful and modern in the country and called it a symbol of both political will and economic maturity

The situation at Mandurriao Airport

By the 1990s, Mandurriao Airport was faced with a myriad of problems which warranted its eventual closure.

Prior to the construction of Iloilo International Airport, Iloilo City was served by Mandurriao Airport in Iloilo City proper, which had been in operation since 1937.[6] Though continually expanded in order to accommodate the changing demands of the city throughout much of its history,[7] Iloilo City's rapid urbanization had made this feat impossible by the 1990s. The 2,202-square-meter (23,700 sq ft) terminal building,[8] constructed in 1982 to handle the passenger demands of a single airline (Philippine Airlines, being the Philippines' aviation monopoly at the time), was unable to cope with the liberalization of the Philippine aviation industry and the subsequent boom in air travel, when as many as four airlines served the airport at the same time and where the passenger terminal needed to have an area of at least 7,800 square meters (84,000 sq ft) in order to absorb all peak-hour demand.[7][8]

The airport's problems continued to linger with it into the new millennium. The increasing incidence of terrorism in the Philippines for example forced aviation officials to restrict airport access only to passengers, the sealing of doors and windows at airport terminals being an essential component thereof.[7] However, the airport's architecture (which took advantage of natural ventilation) and lack of air conditioning made the airport's pre-departure and arrival areas very uncomfortable for passengers to stay in. To counteract this, the Air Transportation Office (the forerunner of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines) installed six air-conditioning units at the pre-departure area. Although the installed units were able to provide a degree of comfort to passengers, the ATO recognized that their efforts were inadequate: in order to effectively provide a comfortable environment for passengers throughout the entire terminal building, twenty-three air conditioners needed to be installed.[7] Passenger

complaints meanwhile were not limited to just the lack of air conditioning: despite the existence of a baggage X-ray machine, passengers flying other airlines were forced to have their baggage manually checked as the machine was ostensibly for the sole use of Philippine Airlines passengers.[7]

In addition to problems with the terminal building, both the airport's location and surrounding infrastructure were the subject of much complaint as well. For one, although some 1,700 cars visited the airport daily, the parking lot had only 129 slots, and could not be expanded any further. The airport complex likewise was located directly alongside major city thoroughfares, in particular the city's main highway, the Tomas Confesor Highway, which complicated the flow of traffic in and around the area. At one point, the ATO, which was already having difficulty managing vehicular traffic around the airport, proposed banning cargo and delivery trucks from passing through the road in front of the terminal building. However, the city government did not respond.[7]

Beset with a myriad of problems, authorities eventually concluded that a new airport had to be built outside the city, and thus Iloilo International Airport was born.

Planning and construction

In October 1995, the Iloilo city government announced its intention to construct a new airport outside the city in cooperation with the private sector.[9] A year later, the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) announced its intention to construct a new airport in Iloilo with German assistance, originally to serve as a reliever for a larger airport to be built in Silay City, Negros Occidental (which would later become the Bacolod-Silay International Airport). Although two sites were initially proposed: north of the city in Santa Barbara and south of the city in the province of Guimaras, the ATO decided to keep the airport in Iloilo, citing the lack of demand in Guimaras to justify construction there.[8] The Regional Development Council for Western Visayas (RDC) endorsed the project to the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) in July 1997.[8] Despite the endorsements, the NEDA, citing an internal rate of return below the set "hurdle rate" of fifteen percent and the impossibility of acquiring some 415 hectares (1,030 acres) of land for the project in one year, rejected the airport proposal in February 1998,[10] and the project was subsequently excluded from the 1998 development cooperation program of the German government.[8]

Concurrent though with the planning of the new airport, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) initiated a study on the master planning and long-term development plans of four key domestic airports in the Philippines. The report cited Mandurriao Airport, Bacolod City Domestic Airport, Legazpi Airport and Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport in Tacloban City as these key domestic airports, noting the high growth of passenger and cargo volume there and the eventual need for expansion.[11] Heeding the recommendations of the JICA report, President Joseph Estrada signed a memorandum in November 1998 creating the Iloilo Airport Coordinating Committee, headed by Iloilo-born senator Franklin Drilon.[12] The coordinating committee decided that a new airport was needed for Iloilo City as Mandurriao Airport was deemed unexpandable due to operational obstacles and the presence of slums and other natural and civic structures that would restrict expansion efforts.[3] In addition, the committee, objecting to the idea that the new airport would serve merely as a reliever for the new Bacolod airport, successfully lobbied for an international airport to be built in lieu of a domestic one.[13] The project finally received NEDA approval in March 2000,[14] with Cabatuan as the location of the new airport based on a study performed by both the DOTC and the JICA later that year.[3]

Although multiple funding sources were originally considered by the NEDA to fund the airport's construction,[8] it was decided that the project should avail of an official development assistance facility offered by the Japanese government through the then-newly formed Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC). After almost two years of negotiations, and after initially refusing to bankroll the project,[15] the JBIC extended a 6.2 billion peso (US$152 million) loan to the Philippine government in August 2000.[16]

The Iloilo International Airport project was inaugurated by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on January 25, 2004, and construction work on the new airport started on April 14 that year.[17] The original expected deadline of completion was June 2007,[18] although this was moved to the first quarter of 2007. A joint venture between the Taisei Corporation and the Shimizu Corporation of Japan served as the contractor for the project,[18] with Phil-Japan Airport Consultants, Inc. managing the project and serving as the government's consultant to the project.[19] The project was 75 percent complete as of July 14, 2006 and fully complete by March 18, 2007.[19][20] While construction was completed ahead of schedule, the airport was constructed over budget, with a final cost of around 8.8 billion pesos ($201 million) caused by increases in the cost of civil works and consultancy services.[21][22]
Name

During construction, the airport was officially called the New Iloilo Airport Development Project, or NIADP. However, as the airport was nearing completion, there were three main contenders for the airport's name: Iloilo International Airport, the original name of the airport which had the support of the Iloilo provincial and city governments;[23] Panay International Airport, proposed by the President and supported by the RDC, which at the time was led by Antique governor Salvacion Perez;[24][25] and Graciano Lopez-Jaena International Airport, named after the Iloilo-born Graciano López Jaena, proposed by the Dr. Graciano Lopez-Jaena Foundation with the support of the RDC and Antique governor Perez, who is also a member of the foundation,[26] and endorsed by the National Historical Institute.[27]

Out of the three proposals, the name Panay International Airport was dropped due to opposition by the Iloilo city and provincial governments,[23] the mayor of Cabatuan and Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez,[28][29] all citing that it is illogical to rename an airport after an island as large as Panay. Prospects for Graciano Lopez-Jaena International Airport are better, with Iloilo governor Niel Tupas saying that the feasibility of renaming the airport after López Jaena or any other Ilonggo should be studied first.[26]

Local newspaper The News Today issued an informal survey asking Iloilo City residents what should be the name of the airport and why. Although the survey is non-scientific, a plurality of the nineteen respondents suggested that the name be kept as Iloilo International Airport.[