The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) commends the recent decision of the administration of Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to designate arrival Bays A8 and A9 for persons with disabilities. In addition, NAIA has also opened Terminal 1’s main arrival curbside, which was previously reserved for VIPs, to all passengers. This initiative is currently in its soft launch phase, allowing the public to familiarize themselves with this development.
The Commission welcomes this measure, especially its focus on ensuring greater safety and convenience for persons with disabilities. We look forward to its full implementation, as it has the potential to remove barriers that limit their mobility and opportunity to travel. Opening the main arrival curbside is also expected to improve traffic flow at the airport while enhancing ease and comfort for all passengers.
Making transportation more accessible is a step toward a more inclusive society. Ensuring that persons with disabilities can travel with dignity and ease affirms our commitment to upholding their rights and promoting equal opportunities for all.
Air travel has become an essential mode of transportation for Filipinos—whether for leisure, work, studies, or reconnecting with their loved ones. As airports play an increasingly vital role in daily life, it is crucial to address the growing challenges and inconveniences faced by Filipino passengers, particularly those with mobility concerns.
Countless reunions and farewells also take place in airports—it is only fitting that transportation be made more accessible for all Filipinos. Airport services and facilities should align with the principles of accessibility and inclusivity, ensuring equal opportunities while balancing business interests with human rights considerations.
As the country’s national human rights institution, we urge continued efforts to prioritize the welfare of persons with disabilities, alongside other vulnerable sectors, in fostering a more inclusive and equitable society. We encourage all stakeholders—including government agencies, civil society organizations, and the private sector—to collaborate in implementing sustainable programs that uphold the rights and dignity of all, ensuring that no one is left behind.###