7 hurt after part of NAIA Terminal 1 ceiling collapses

Seven people were injured after a portion of the ceiling of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 collapsed on Good Friday, according to the Department of Transportation (DOTr).

The DoTr said the victims were hurt after part of the ceiling at the arrival extension area of NAIA Terminal 1 collapsed. 

"Transportation Secretary Banoy Lopez has immediately instructed MIAA and New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC) 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 agency said in a statement.

“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 said. 

In a separate statement, the New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC) confirmed that the incident took place outside the passenger terminal building around 10:43 a.m.

NNIC said that its medical team, airport security personnel, and the PNP Aviation Security Group immediately responded to the incident and cordoned off the area.

Inspections have since been conducted to ensure that the area is safe for normal operations.

“Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the incident. NNIC is working closely with the relevant authorities and will take the necessary action based on the findings,” it said.

“NNIC continues to provide all necessary assistance to those involved. The safety and well-being of passengers, airport workers, and visitors remain its top priority,” it added.

Operations at the NAIA terminal continued following the incident, the DoTr added.  —With Jiselle Anne Casucian/VAL, GMA News