Cebu Pacific says qualified passengers need not pay airport terminal fee

Budget carrier Cebu Pacific has updated its bookings system to ensure that passengers who are exempt from the International Passenger Service Charge (IPSC) or terminal fee at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) will not have to pay it, regardless of how they book their flights.

In a statement on Friday, Cebu Pacific said the move will benefit thousands of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) on its flights.

"Since July 8, 2017, passengers who book their flights through the Cebu Pacific mobile app have been able to claim the NAIA terminal fee exemption by simply ticking a box before booking and payment is processed and confirmed," it said.

"Bookings made through the Cebu Pacific Reservation Hotlines or via the website, www.cebupacificair.com on the other hand, have been exempted from paying the P550.00 NAIA terminal fee since April this year," it added.

Passengers need to present valid documents upon check-in to verify their eligibility for the IPSC exemption.

For OFWs, Cebu Pacific said the requirements include an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) and the documents under the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration Balik Manggagawa program such as a valid employment contract, recent payslip, or company ID.

Pilgrims authorized by the Philippine Sports Commission, and guests who have an MIAA exemption certificate are also exempted from paying the terminal fee, provided they present valid documents, the airline said. — Ted Cordero/VDS/KVD, GMA News