T-3 parking/MRT-6.5

The hottest topic in town for nearly a week has been all about the increased parking rates at the NAIA Terminal 3. The topic was so hot that it even overshadowed the ongoing congressional quad comm investigations.

- CITO BELTRAN

The interesting part is that after all was said and done, it turns out that the NNIC decision was correct. By Wednesday, Oct. 2, images were circulating on social media featuring ample parking space at the T3 multiple level parking garage. Posts even mentioned the usually full ground level had available slots.

As humans it is understandable that we prioritize our needs and convenience. But as citizens, consumers and commuters, we Filipinos must start to accept and respect "purpose or design purpose." In the world of architecture and construction, there is constant discussion if not debate over "form" and "function", Some say "form" must follow "function," but among the irreverent "fashionistas" they will say "porma before function." In terms of buildings and service facilities such as parking lots, the T3's primary purpose is to provide readily available parking space for airline passengers.

Secondary clients would be the airport personnel involved in operations.

Some airline crew complained that they too need parking. That is something they should take up with their unions because there was a time when their benefits included shuttle service. Unbeknownst to many, there are still large areas outside the NNIC areas that belong to MIAA and leased to airlines, they have space.

Two other groups that create crowds and eat up parking space are the too many small locators as well as different law enforcement units and government agencies. Given their regular operating schedules in our airports, they too should be provided shuttle services and not have to use their private vehicles and park all day.