PASAY CITY — Long layovers at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) just got shorter.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco recently inaugurated the country’s first-ever Transit Tours and Medical Concierge at NAIA Terminal 3, a move aimed at transforming the Philippines into a “tourism powerhouse” through experiential travel.
“Instead of spending hours confined to the terminal, travelers are now given a chance to enjoy a curated glimpse of the Philippines,” President Marcos said during the launch. He described the initiatives as a shift toward “people-centered service” that benefits international travelers, the elderly, and Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).
The Transit Tour program targets international passengers from visa-free countries with layovers of at least eight hours. For US$50, travelers can book a seat on a 49-seater ariconditioned bus, accompanies by a DOT-accredited guide and a security officer.
Initially, two curated routes are available:
- Morning Heritage: A tour of Intramuros and the National Museum.
- Afternoon Leisure: A visit to the entertainment and shopping hubs of Okada and Solaire.
The all-inclusive fee covers entrance fees and insurance. Bookings can be made via the LovePH mobile app, the Philippine Airlines website, or walk-in desks at the arrival area.
A Hub for Healing
Simultaneously, the Medical Tourism Concierge was launched to streamline the experience for visitors seeking world-class healthcare. In partnership with top-tier institutions like St. Luke’s, Makati Medical, and The Medical City, the desk provides personalized assistance from arrival to departure.
The facility includes a private room for VIP patients and assists with the coordination between the Bureau of Immigration and specialized medical providers.
“When we elevate the visitor experience, we create livelihood for Filipinos and present the Philippines with confidence to the world,” Secretary Frasco said, noting that the project aligns with the National Tourism Development Plan 2023-2028.
The launch signals a significant infrastructure upgrade for NAIA, repositioning the gateway not just as a transit point, but as a functional part of the Philippine tourism experience.