- Aviation security chief notes higher high-profile arrivals at airport
THE AVIATION Security Unit (AVSEU) XI reinforced security at Francisco Bangoy International Airport after noting the rising number of VIPs and tourists visiting the city for the Araw ng Dabaw celebration.
Speaking in last week’s AFP-PNP press briefing held at The Royal Mandaya Hotel, Lt Col Grace Lascano, deputy chief of AVSEU XI, said they deployed trained PNP personnel outside and inside the airport.
“We have the mobile patrol security unit which is conducting patrols in the outer area of the airport, together with the Police Regional Office XI. They (also) have detailed personnel at checkpoints,” Lascano said.
“We are also intensifying security measures on airside, which is the arrival and departure,” she added.
She said frequent fliers would have noticed the heightened security implemented inside and on the periphery of the airport.
“Maybe you are aware that the initial security checkpoints in Manila have been removed. But here in Davao, it was not removed because of the level of security measures here that were seriously implemented,” Lascano added.
The deputy chief said the initial security check at the airport is the first line of defense as travelers are rigorously inspected before being allowed through.
VIP arrivals
The aviation security deputy chief also noted that a lot of VIPs are coming to the city.
“It’s not only those coming from Manila but other countries; there are ambassadors. Actually, I am surprised with your visitors here,” Lascano said, comparing her experience with the previous airport assignments.
She said they offer the standard assistance and protocol to VIPs. For instance, upon arrival at the airport, security will assist [the VIPs] up to the parking area. The police escorts wear civilian clothes but they get access from the AVSEU headquarters.
“Sila po yung officially na nag assist doon sa mga VIPs (They are the ones officially assisting the VIPs),” she said, adding that they assess requests for additional security assistance on an individual basis.
“Then nag re-report din po kami kung they are safely na nakarating and nakabalik na sa kanilang travel,” she further added.
