Seven hurt after NAIA 1 arrival area ceiling collapses on Good Friday

A portion of the ceiling near the arrival bay of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 collapsed, April 3, 2026. Screenshots from video contributed by Calyn Lanuza

MANILA — (UPDATE 3) At least 7 people were injured after a portion of the ceiling of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 collapsed on Good Friday, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) confirmed hours after the incident.

At around 11:30 a.m., several steel chairs were toppled after a portion of the ceiling fell unto several people who were waiting near the arrival bays.

All affected individuals “have been promptly given medical attention,” the DOTr said in a statement.

“The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has directed the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) to closely coordinate with the private operator of NAIA, New NAIA Infra Corp (NNIC), to immediately investigate the incident involving the collapse of a partial ceiling at the arrival extension area of Terminal 1 today, April 3,” the statement read.

“The DOTr is closely monitoring the situation and expects a thorough assessment of the incident, including the implementation of necessary measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future,” it read.

Authorities have also been ordered “to ensure the safety and security of all passengers and airport personnel, and to submit a detailed report explaining the cause of the incident.”

The NNIC — a private consortium — took over NAIA operations in September 2024 via a 25-year concession agreement.

Under the deal, the NNIC will pour in some P170 billion to rehabilitate the Philippines’ main gateway and boost its capacity to 62 million passengers.

In a separate statement, the NNIC said that the 7 injured “are in stable condition,” adding that the consortium “continues to provide all necessary assistance to those involved.”

“The safety and well-being of passengers, airport workers, and visitors remain its top priority,” the statement read.

“Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the incident,” it read.

“NNIC is working closely with the relevant authorities and will take the necessary action based on the findings.”

Meantime, the consortium said that the affected area has been inspected and “is safe for normal operations.”