I haven't been to MNL in a while. How the security situation nowadays?

How much time would be required to check in and security?

It varies a lot, but last time I was there (which was for the 06:50 flight within the last 2 weeks) I was in the lounge within 20mins of arriving at the airport at about 5am. But on the other hand if I had needed to stand in the CX Economy check-in line it would have taken a LOT longer. And on a previous occasion I waited 45mins for immigration alone. Remember that MNL has a separate internet check-in counter, so if you have checked in online (and can quote your boarding number) you can bypass the Y-line even without status.

The Philippines is currently one of the "no liquids/gels" places, but I decided to chance it, and my toiletries were not detected. They are hand-searching some, but by no means all, bags. Shoes may now be kept on "unless the machine beeps", but belts with metal buckles need to be put thorugh the x-ray!

Leaving Makati at around 1030 for the 1230 deaprture, would that be cutting it close? I think it takes 30-45 mins to MNL. Emerald so hopefully no checkin line.

I'd regard 10:30 from Makati as the very latest for the 12:30 departure... I'd try to start a bit earlier, but so many variables... If you really, really have to be on the 12:30 (i.e. missing it means a bad miss of onward connections or something) then personally I would aim to leave Makati at 10am.

I agree with christep. Leave more time to get through Makati traffic, B-HQC. It's pretty atrocious, and this is one instance where it's better to be safe than sorry.

By the way, Emerald status doesn't protect you from any snarl-up at immigration after checkin.

For the 11:05 AM flight traveling in Y class, should we try to get there two hours ahead or maybe three?

I would say aim to get there 2 hours before if you have checked in online and so can avoid the Y check-in line. Probably add 30 mins if you are going to have to use that line.

Thanks. Unfortunately we have paper tickets, so I assume that means we'll have to use the line.

Yes, if you don't have AsiaMiles membership.

I do have Asia Miles membership. Does that mean I can use the kiosk even with a paper ticket?

Assuming that you AsiaMiles number is in the reservation then yes you can.
http://www.cathaypacific.com/ichecki...TL&source=WEB&