Increased airport police visibility a must, says Kuya Bong
Go expressed that while convenience is important, the removal of the scanners should not compromise the safety of passengers citing past incidents of terrorism that happened.
Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go recently appealed to law enforcement agencies to increase increase police visibility and aviation security while enhancing intelligence capabilities at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
This, as the NAIA has implemented the removal of X-ray machines and scanners at departure entrances in an effort to promote more seamless airport process among passengers.
The lawmaker stressed that while he supports the decision to rid the airport’s departure entrances of X-rays to ensure a seamless process, he is keen on reminding authorities to still implement necessary security protocols in lieu of X-ray scanners in departure areas.
“Maximize the police by increasing their visibility and enhancing intelligence capabilities to fully protect our citizens while valuing their convenience,” Go said.
During a public hearing on Thursday on the NAIA air traffic system glitch incident conducted by the Senate Committee on Public Services, Go expressed that while convenience is important, the removal of the scanners should not compromise the safety of passengers citing past incidents of terrorism that happened.
“I have received reports that X-ray machines and scanners at the airport departure entrances were recently removed to accommodate the concerns of passengers to have faster and more convenient travel,” Go said.
“However, the first layer of security has been removed which is an issue on security and convenience. Do not compromise, do not risk the safety of our passengers. This may be terrorism waiting to happen,” he added
Citing the 2003 Davao City bombing, the senator noted that a more lenient security might expose NAIA to such risks and tressed the need to always ensure the safety of the people.
“While we want convenience, we must not forget that it must be our primary concern to ensure the safety of our people,” said the lawmaker.
The senator then urged airport authorities to improve police visibility and aviation security to promote the safety of passengers amid the removal of the entrance scanners. He also urged authorities to heighten intelligence capabilities so that security will not be compromised for convenience.