CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) -- The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has upgraded its air traffic control computer system which now places Philippine airports on a par with top regional airports such as Singapore and Malaysia in terms of compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards. 

CAAP spokesperson Eric Apolonio made the statement during the PIA’s Lambo Dyes radio program in which he also discussed CAAP projects and programs for aviation safety and security.

Apolonio said CAAP currently employs various computer systems and software to manage and oversee different aspects of civil aviation, including air traffic management, safety regulation, licensing, and certification. These systems include databases, communication tools, monitoring software, and other applications designed to ensure the safety and efficiency of civil aviation operations.

Through their website, https://caap.gov.ph/, Apolonio said one can access the licensing and certification department online, the airmen examination board online, the Office of the Flight Surgeon (OFSAM) appointment system, the remotely piloted aircraft system, the Philippine Aerodrome Development and Management Service (AeDMS), and height clearance. 

Highlighting the role of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) in ensuring comfortable, accessible, safe, sustainable, and affordable transportation for passengers, CAAP aims to continuously improve safety standards and ensure that the Philippines remains at the forefront of aviation safety globally. 

"Naglantad din ang DOTr ng national aviation safety plan na ang layunin ay mabawasan ang mga aksidente sa paliparan sa pagtatag ng isang national safety strategy [The DOTr also came up with a national aviation safety plan that aims to reduce airport accidents by establishing a national safety strategy],” said Apolonio.

Apolonio also highlighted CAAP's dedication to embracing digitalization in both governance and passenger services at airports. The adoption of digital technologies is envisioned to streamline operations and enhance the overall passenger experience, from check-in to boarding.

Moreover, as part of aviation’s broader strategy, CAAP is actively working towards reducing risks through advanced recurrency training programs for aviation personnel that aim to continuously improve safety standards and ensure that the Philippines remains at the forefront of aviation safety globally. 

Improving facilities in northern Mindanao

With the continued economic and tourism development in northern Mindanao, Apolonio recognized the need for further expansion and improvement of aviation services to address the increasing volume of travelers passing through Laguindingan Airport, which demands modern and extensive facilities to provide convenient service to passengers.

"Noong dinesign 'yan, di inexpect na lumakas ang komersyo at tumaas ang tourism kaya dumadami ang pasahero. Kaya kinakailangan magkaroon tayo ng isang paraan para mabigyan ng maginhawang pasilidad ang ating mga pasahero na gumagamit sa nasabing airport [When it was initially designed, the surge in commerce and tourism leading to a rise in passenger numbers was unexpected. Therefore, it is necessary for us to find a way to provide convenient facilities for passengers utilizing the said airport],” said Apolonio. 

On February 4, CAAP in northern Mindanao held the groundbreaking of the Laguindingan Airport expansion project. The project, which amounts to P32.3 million, will help in expanding the pre-departure area from 743 square meters to 1,463 square meters, and the passenger capacity will also increase from 500 to 860 passengers per airline. They have also completed Bukidnon airport phase one in 2022, and they aim to make the airport operational by January 2025. 

To further enhance aviation safety measures and reduce accidents in the region, CAAP is also gearing up to implement a comprehensive national safety strategy. According to the ICAO's mandate, this will establish rules and safety procedures for airports all over the Philippines.

As CAAP seeks to  realize continual improvement efforts and customer satisfaction across all processes, Apolonio emphasized the importance of collaboration among aviation stakeholders, regulatory bodies, and the public in achieving the shared goal of maintaining a safe and secure air transportation system. (RTP/KAPG/PIA-10)