All airplanes coming in and out of the Philippines – even private ones – are subject to security checks.
This the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) reaffirmed, following questions raised on whether so-called “VIP” passengers flying on private aircraft were able to evade the routine checks ordinary airline passengers are subjected to at Philippine airports.
In a statement, CAAP reiterated its security mandate for private aircraft passengers to follow the mandate to undergo security checks at specific terminals as outlined in Memorandum Circular 005-2023.
Area Center Managers and Airport Managers are responsible for ensuring that all required documentation and security protocols are followed for passengers flying in and out of CAAP-managed airports, as specified by CAAP Director General Manuel Antonio Tamayo, with the exception of military flights.
The CAAP said the policy underscores the agency's commitment to maintaining the highest standards of aviation security.
According to CAAP, this strict implementation has been praised by Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr.
During his visit to Laguindingan Airport last September 3, Abalos himself went through comprehensive security screening at the terminal, showcasing the effective execution of the policy.
The Memoradum Circular, issued February last year, was also prompted by Senator Raffy Tulfo's push for ensuring that even "VIP" passengers undergo the same comprehensive screening as regular passengers, thereby enhancing security and preventing potential illegal activities.
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