MANILA (3rd UPDATE) -  Normal flight operations are currently being restored at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport after a software problem caused several flights to be placed on hold or delayed, airport authorities said on Monday.

The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) said the identified problem at the Air Traffic Management Center (ATMC) has been resolved.

CAAP earlier said it identified a potential problem with the ATMC's software during the regular monitoring on Monday. 

AirAsia earlier put several flights at NAIA on hold on Monday due to the problem

“The safety and well-being of our guests remain our top priority,” AirAsia Philippines Communications and Public Affairs Head and First Officer Steve Dailisan said.

Cebu Pacific also advised its passengers that flights departing and arriving at NAIA may experience delays due to the ATMC issue.    

AirAsia said CAAP announced the issue to airlines at 12 noon of Monday. Flights from other domestic airports were also affected.

Cebu Pacific also announced some flights were canceled. And even if system has been restored, it will take time for operations to normalize.

Philippine Airlines also canceled four domestic flights because of the issue. 

"As always, safety is our top priority. We seek your kind understanding and patience," PAL said. 

The Manila International Airport Authority said it has assisted affected passengers by giving them so-called "malasakit kits". These kits usually have a bottle of water and light snack.

As of 3 p.m., the total affected flights reached 36 for domestic and 20 international flights.

"To address this situation, MIAA has opened the NAIA runways for twenty-four (24) hours for airline flight recovery operations," MIAA said.