INQUIRER Global Nation

MANILA, Philippines -- (UPDATE) President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has created a task force to exercise administrative supervision and control over the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 (NAIA 3), which is scheduled for trial domestic operations next month.

Transportation Secretary Leandro Mendoza said NAIA 3 would serve international flights “within the year” if the dry run “goes well.”

The task force, created through Executive Order732 signed by Arroyo on June 9, will “solely and exclusively address all concerns, handle and coordinate all matters relating to the immediate opening and operation of the NAIA Terminal 3.”

The Manila International Airport Authority currently has supervision and control over all international airports in the country.

The directive noted, however, that since its construction in 1998, the NAIA 3 has not been operational due to “several legal, technical and other controversies” even as it stressed that “the immediate opening and operation of Terminal 3 is of paramount national importance.”

Aside from overseeing the opening of NAIA 3 and ensuring its continued operation “based on the decisions of the Supreme Court and applicable laws,” the task force will also “represent the President in all discussions with concerned parties and stakeholders to resolve issues relating to the completion and opening of the Terminal 3.”

The MIAA will provide administrative support and technical assistance to the task force.

Transportation Assistant Secretary for Planning Elmer Soneja said the remaining "one percent plus" of structural works on the NAIA 3 are now nearing completion and would "hopefully" be finished by July.

Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita said the head of the task force will be announced soon.