The Office for Transportation Security plans to modernize airport security in the Philippines by installing the Advanced Imaging Technology scanners at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport and other major hubs in the country.
According to OTS Administrator Ma.O Apalsca, the AIT scanner safely screens a passenger’s entire body without physical contact and will only require 10 to 15 seconds per passenger to check for both metallic and non-metallic threats, such as weapons and explosives that may be hidden under a passenger’s clothing.
Aplasca said that due to the directive of the Department of Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista to secure a safe and convenient travel experience for everyone without anyone complaining.
The first five AITs, which were donated by the US government, were installed at the final screening checkpoints prior to the passengers reaching the boarding gates.
Aplasca appealed to the Department of Budget and Management for a budget to purchase this high-tech body scanners. He also appealed to US officials for possible additional donations of AIT.
The OTS chief also said that DoTr-OTS is in the final stage of consultation to provide “one security check” at NAIA. There will be only one security check and that will be at the area before boarding gates.
Meanwhile, the National Aviation Security Auditors from the Office for Transportation Security intensified their Compliance Monitoring Activities of airports to ensure consistent adherence to both international and national transportation security standards.
The activities were done in coordination, and with the cooperation of airport authorities and operators.
The CMA includes the conduct of audits, inspections and covert security systems test, which aims to verify the actual implementation of their respective Airport Security Programs.
Airports subjected to audit and inspection are the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, Clark International Airport, Mactan-Cebu International Airport, Surigao Airport, Jolo Airport, Siargao Airport, Sanga-Sanga Airport, Camiguin Airport, Laoag International Airport, Tacloban Airport, Puerto Princesa International Airport, General Santos Airport, Roxas Airport, and Calbayog Airport.