MANILA — A routine Monday‐morning scene at Ninoy Aquino International Airport’s Terminal 1 devolved into chaos when a black Ford Everest SUV suddenly accelerated through the departure driveway’s outer railing and into the pedestrian walkway at around 8:55 a.m. on May 4, 2025, scattering travelers and bystanders in its path GMA Network | News and EntertainmentInquirer.
According to the Philippine Red Cross, one of the victims was a four‑year‑old girl, although Transportation Secretary Vivencio Hizon later indicated she may have been five, reflecting the confusion of the immediate response AP NewsReuters. The second fatality was a 29‑year‑old man, bringing the confirmed death toll to two. Initial reports vary on the number of injured—official counts range from three to four—several of whom were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment ReutersInquirer.
Airport operator New NAIA Infra Co. (NNIC) said its security team and Pasay City emergency crews were on the scene within minutes, evacuating the injured and clearing debris while cordoning off the damaged section of the departure area AP NewsGMA Network | News and Entertainment. Photos circulating on social media captured shattered glass along the walkway and the SUV’s front end crumpled against the terminal façade.
The vehicle’s driver was detained by Philippine National Police units at the scene and is now in custody, pending a mandatory drug test as part of the criminal investigation GMA Network | News and EntertainmentAP News. In response, the Land Transportation Office imposed a 90‑day preventive suspension on his driver’s license and issued show‑cause orders to both him and the registered owner of the SUV PhilstarGMA Network | News and Entertainment.
NNIC president Ramon Ang pledged to cover all medical expenses for the injured and to provide financial assistance to the families of the deceased. “Our priority is ensuring victims and their loved ones receive immediate support and care,” Ang said in a company statement GMA Network | News and EntertainmentGMA Network | News and Entertainment.
This breach of airport safety has prompted NAIA management to launch a review of current drop‑off protocols at Terminal 1. Travelers are being urged to allow extra time for their journeys to the airport, as traffic flow and security checks are expected to remain disrupted over the coming days InquirerGMA Network | News and Entertainment.
Investigators from the Pasay City police, assisted by MIAA security personnel, are examining CCTV footage and interviewing witnesses to determine whether the acceleration was accidental or intentional. Authorities have appealed for the public to refrain from speculation until forensic analyses and driver testimonies are complete.
As Manila’s busiest international gateway resumes normal flight operations, officials have vowed transparent updates. Passengers are advised to monitor official NAIA channels for the latest advisories on terminal access and traffic conditions.
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