Office for Transportation Security (OTS) Administrator Gilberto Cruz has ordered the cancellation of leave of absence of OTS frontliners at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and other major transport hubs to better serve the public during the holiday season.
The move aims to ensure adequate personnel are available to manage the anticipated increase in passenger volume and maintain safety protocols.
Cruz emphasized the importance of prioritizing traveler security and efficiency during the busy period.
“I have already requested the cancellation of leave for our airport security screening officers, as we anticipate a significant increase in the number of travelers this Christmas season. We are also activating our 24/7 monitoring to ensure that no untoward incidents occur in our transport facilities nationwide,” Cruz said.
The OTS is intensifying security measures as passenger traffic continues to rise across air, sea, land, and rail transport, in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to ensure safe, secure, and comfortable travel for all Filipinos.
Cruz has instructed OTS national auditors to inspect transport hubs and oversee the proper implementation of security plans and programs by stakeholders.
He also ordered the deployment of OTS personnel to conduct threat and vulnerability assessments and ensure the continuous operation of the Transport Security Operations Center.
The OTS said it remains committed to maintaining full staffing at airport security screening checkpoints in coordination with partner agencies, including the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, New NAIA Infra Corp, Mactan-Cebu International Airport, Manila International Airport Authority, Philippine Coast Guard, Maritime Industry Authority, Philippine Ports Authority, Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group, Land Transportation Office, and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board.
The initiative responds to heightened security requirements under an elevated alert status and reflects a proactive approach to safeguarding the aviation sector.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline: “Leaves of airport security frontliners canceled during holidays”
