Ascent Solutions Installs Two E-Gates at NAIA 2 Departures

Philippines' Bureau of Immigration (BI) has approved the use of electronic gates at the departure area of Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila.

The e-gate pilot test will initially take place at the NAIA 2 departure area and is expected to reduce passenger queues during the Christmas holiday period.

Last year, an e-gate system was installed in the arrival areas of NAIA’s three terminals and the international airports in Mactan-Cebu, Davao, and Clark. The noticeable drop in long queues at those airports has been attributed to the successful implementation of the project.

“We are optimistic that the same success will be replicated when the scheme becomes fully operational in our airports’ immigration departure areas,” said Immigration Commissioner, Jaime Morente.

As with the e-gates installed at the immigration arrival areas, the new lanes shall cater only to departing OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers) and crew of Philippine Airlines.

The two e-gates and biometric machines have been provided by Ascent Solutions, a Singapore-based IT company. The pilot test is expected to last for six months.

The BI says it is also studying the feasibility of making the scheme available to permanent residents and other ACR I-Card holders.

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