Article by:
Ma. Cristina Arayata
MANILA – The Office for Transportation Security (OTS) will implement heightened security screening at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) amid the expected passenger influx for the Holy Week.
"We will also implement stricter coordination with airport authorities and law enforcement agencies, as well as continuous monitoring of security operations," OTS Administrator Gilberto Cruz told the Philippine News Agency in an interview Monday.
The OTS Transportation Operations Center will be activated 24/7 to ensure immediate action in case of untoward incident.
Cruz admitted that the center does not operate 24/7 at the moment since it is not yet fully equipped.
As part of preparations for the expected influx, Cruz said the vacation leaves of all screening officers assigned in critical areas were canceled.
Currently, there are 1,089 security screening officers manning all NAIA terminals.
Auditors will also be deployed in all gateways to ensure that national and international security standards are being implemented.
Reminders
Meanwhile, Cruz reminds travelers to arrive early and cooperate with the OTS personnel for faster security process.
They are also advised to pack their own bags so they know the contents, and to not accept baggage from other people.
"If they know the owner, make sure they check the bag first to ensure it does not contain any prohibited item," Cruz said.
In case the passengers notice any suspicious individual or unattended baggage, they are advised to inform the airport police or call the OTS hotline at 0960-461-6877, he added. (PNA)
Log in with Google