KIKO TO GOV'T: If you can't keep NAIA 3 safe, 'shut it down and fix it'

Senate Majority Leader and Independent senator Kiko Pangilinan today called for a thorough investigation on the mishap at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3, demanding the government to immediately launch a comprehensive safety check after part of the building's arrival area ceiling collapsed yesterday.

"At the very least, it should undergo immediate safety inspection and repairs. This is the third time something like this has happened. Luckily, there were no casualties this time. We cannot allow a similar incident to happen again. Do we need more proof of the airport's substandard construction?" asked Kiko.

"But if they can't keep it safe, then I strongly urge them to temporarily shut down NAIA 3 and fix it."

Since its construction in 1997, the airport has been haunted by technical and structural concerns. The beleaguered NAIA 3 began operating only last July after a long-drawn legal battle between the Philippine government and the airport contractors in international courts. Several related cases have also been filed against government officials accused of graft, corruption and laundering.

"Obviously, the administration has not settled the issues surrounding NAIA 3. It is not enough to finally begin operations regardless of the facility's safety. We should demand accountability from those whose greed has marred this as well as every government project. Hindi pwedeng ang taong bayan na naman ang magbabayad para sa katiwalian ng iilang nasa katungkulan."