NNIC Unveils Biometric E-Gates and Massive Food Halls in Major NAIA Terminal 3 Upgrade

The New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC) has officially begun the rollout of extensive upgrades at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3, introducing advanced biometric immigration e-gates and expansive new dining precincts designed to modernize the passenger experience.

As part of its ongoing rehabilitation of the country’s primary gateway, NNIC announced the deployment of 78 biometric immigration e-gates across NAIA, with units already operational at Terminals 1 and 3. Powered by global travel technology leader Amadeus, the new e-gates are capable of clearing eligible passengers in approximately 20 seconds. The system utilizes facial recognition and document authentication to streamline border control and reduce congestion during peak travel periods.

“This shows how our partnership with the government is delivering improvements that the public can actually see and feel,” said NNIC President Ramon S. Ang. “As we enter the new year, we look forward to building on what is already in place.”

In addition to faster processing, travelers at Terminal 3 can now enjoy significantly expanded dining options with the launch of two major food halls.

The “Tambayan” All-Filipino Food Hall, spanning 6,200 square meters, is designed as a communal space that can accommodate up to 2,000 guests. It features 17 homegrown brands highlighting regional Filipino cuisine, offering travelers a taste of local flavors immediately upon arrival or before departure.

Complementing this is the Mezzanine Food Hall, a 6,801-square-meter space seating 600 guests. This area hosts 22 stand-alone restaurants and cafés, providing a mix of premium international and local dining choices.

NNIC General Manager Lito Alvarez also confirmed the inauguration of a new 200-square-meter Dignitaries Lounge at Terminal 3, capable of hosting 61 official guests for diplomatic and government engagements.

Looking ahead, NNIC is preparing to open an airside Food Village at Terminal 3 for departing passengers. The new zone will feature popular brands such as Bo’s Coffee, Potato Corner, Cinnabon, and Lechon Diva, further expanding the airport’s commercial offerings.

The upgrades are part of a broader modernization program by the private operator, which has already generated over ₱57 billion in government revenue since taking over management.