Philippines: 4-year-old girl among two killed after driver crashes SUV into Manila airport

Two people, including a four-year-old girl, were killed when a vehicle crashed into the entrance of Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) on Sunday, Reuters reported, citing the Philippine Red Cross.

The crash occurred when a car rammed through the outer railing and struck the pedestrian walkway near the entrance of NAIA Terminal 1. The airport authority described the incident as a “vehicular accident” and confirmed that several people were injured.

“We understand the concern this incident has caused, especially as images have circulated on social media. We urge the public not to speculate and to wait for verified updates,” NAIA said in a statement. According to the Philippine Red Cross, the deceased included a male adult and a young girl.

In a social media update, the Red Cross said the incident occurred around 8:55 am when a sports utility vehicle (SUV) crashed through the outer railing and pedestrian walkway before slamming into the entrance of the Departure Area at NAIA Terminal 1 in Pasay City.

The driver of the vehicle is currently in police custody. Authorities from the Philippine National Police (PNP), Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) Security, and New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC) have secured the area and launched a full investigation. Officials from the Manila International Airport (MIA) are also present at the site.

In response to the incident, the Philippine Red Cross deployed five ambulances—two from its National Headquarters (NHQ) and one each from the Port Area, Pasay, and Manila. A total of 18 volunteers and two cadaver bags were sent, along with a rescue vehicle for possible extrication.

Emergency medical teams led by various PRC team leaders assisted in handling the victims, though no patients required medical transport or treatment. The PRC Operations Center coordinated closely with the Pasay Police Station and Airport Substation 8 throughout the response.

Authorities have urged the public to avoid speculation and wait for verified updates as the investigation into the incident continues.

Meanwhile, images shared by local media showed shattered glass at the terminal entrance and a black SUV with heavy front-end damage. Several individuals were seen lying on the ground in the aftermath of the crash.

The injured are currently receiving treatment, and the driver is in police custody, officials confirmed.