Just got back from a 1hr turnaround at MNL on UA. As long as you don't make a wrong turn, it works fine, but geez, the terminal (T1) is a mess. Designed before modern security needs, it's like CDG on steroids. Just go to the transfer desk and ask what you need to do. When I was there, they were very friendly and accommodating, but they brought up using the lounge, and if I had done that, there's no way I could have made my flight. They tried to assure me that I could, that they'd call out the flight. The reason this would have been a terribly bad idea is the absurd additional security at the gate. Three different checks by different people, one checking my shoes, one checking my ID/papers, another checking the contents of my luggage. They were doing this to everyone and, had I been further back in the line, I would have been extremely nervous, to say the least.

There didn't seem to be much issue with my turnaround; the only "official" problem I had was a security-type who was trying to extort the airport fee ($12?) out of me. He was trying to tell me why I had to pay it, and I was telling him no I don't, here are my passes, I'm just transiting. He gave up. I got the feeling that everybody's looking for a handout... uniformed people in the men's room tearing off paper towels for you???!!! It was like some places I've been to in Egypt.

Don't be scared of a fast turn at MNL, just do what you're supposed to do, don't take a wrong turn, and you'll be fine. But do not tempt yourself with a desire for a passport stamp. Stay airside!!! Even if you have a few hours.