Transportation Secretary Jaime J. Bautista interacted with arriving OFWs from the Middle East during his inspection of the airport’s readiness for the long travel rush.

The OFWs, when asked by Secretary Bautista as to their personal observation, said, “Overall, okay naman po ang lahat.”

In between talks, Secretary Bautista proudly honored them, as he remarked, “Kayo ang aming mga bayani.”

The transportation chief likewise inspected the airport facilities to make sure that all are up and running well to accommodate and serve the needs of the passengers. He further eyes for an additional deployment of personnel at the airport’s security check areas to avert longer queues.

Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista checks on OFW’s on their way home to vote in the 2023 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan electiosn. (photos DOTr)

Also, during the inspection, as part of the Department’s aim to improve the airport operations and enhance the travel experience of the air-riding public, Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) OIC-General Manager Bryan Co announced that the processing time of baggage screening per traveling party for US flights under the Philippine Airlines (PAL) will be reduced from nine (9) minutes to just nine (9) seconds, beginning 28 October 2023.

In light of the expected influx of passengers during the long holiday break, the DOTr remains all-out in implementing the necessary measures in the country’s transport hubs, such as the continuous roll-out of the Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Barangay and SK Elections and Undas 2023, to ensure the safety, comfort, and overall wellbeing of our kababayans.