Falsifying documents is a serious offense - especially so in the aviation industry where crewmembers are held to the highest standards.
This the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) reminded the industry, after a man fell into the hands of authorities for allegedly counterfeiting pilot and aviation maintenance licenses.
The unidentified counterfeiter was arrested during a sting operation at a Jollibee outlet in Recto, Manila on Tuesday, July 8.
The aviation regulatory body said the recent uncovering of an individual's involvement in the illegal and fraudulent issuance of counterfeit pilot and aircraft maintenance licenses poses a significant risk to the safety and security of passengers and aircraft personnel at all times.
CAAP stressed that there are no shortcuts to becoming a licensed pilot in the Philippines.
"All aspiring aviators must undergo a stringent process of training and certification as prescribed under the Philippine Civil Aviation Regulations (PCAR) and aligned with international aviation safety standards," CAAP said.
CAAP Director General Raul del Rosario has ordered an immediate inquiry of the authority's licensing systems, along with the reinforcement of procedural safeguards to eliminate vulnerabilities and prevent future breaches.
The agency, however, said that the CAAP licenses are now digitalized and have security features that are difficult to duplicate.
The suspect was neither a former employee of an aviation company nor had any background with any agency connected to the CAAP.
The CAAP did not give any additional details regarding whether the suspect had already sold any of fake licenses.
"We extend our sincere appreciation to the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) for their swift and effective action in uncovering this fraudulent scheme. Their decisive intervention reflects our shared commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring public safety," CAAP added.
The aviation regulator reiterated its commitment to maintaining the highest levels of aviation safety, transparency, and compliance with regulations. It is collaborating closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure that those involved in criminal activities are identified and prosecuted according to the law.
"The safety of the flying public is paramount. CAAP will continue to take all necessary measures to protect the integrity of the Philippine civil aviation system," the CAAP said.
#WeTakeAStand #OpinYon #OpinYonNews #CAAP #NBI