The country's aviation regulator has stepped up security measures at all of its 42 commercial airports following a warning received by the Air Traffic Service (ATS) via email that some flights will be set off by a bomb.
Although the information is currently being validated, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has immediately enhanced security measures and implemented them across all airports.
CAAP instructed its Security and Intelligence Service (CSIS), all local airports under the authority and area centers to augment adequate security personnel to manage the expected high volume of passengers and vehicle traffic to ensure the safety and security of passengers, airport personnel, as well as the airports' facilities.
The Air Traffic Service is one of the two services under the CAAP.
Stringent access control
The CAAP said that stringent access control procedures for both personnel and vehicles will be implemented, accompanied by thorough inspections of passengers and cargo.
CAAP's intelligence personnel are collaborating closely with the Philippine National Police -Aviation Security Group (PNP-Avsegroup) and the military to intensify and monitor operations with other security units.
Continuous foot and mobile patrols are also being conducted within both the airside and landside areas of the airport complex.
Airport security coordination meetings will also be convened with all relevant stakeholders to ensure the strict implementation of security measures aimed at preventing any unlawful interference with civil aviation.
CAAP also reminded passengers who will be traveling internationally to arrive at the airport at least three hours before their scheduled flight to avoid any inconvenience.
"We also urge the public to cooperate fully with security personnel and to remain vigilant while at the airport. Safety and security remain our top priorities, and these measures are being taken to safeguard all those who use our airports," the CAAP said.
#Security #Airports #BombThreat #AirTraafficService #ATS #CAAP #OpinYon #WeTakeAStand