The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) said the Francisco Bangoy International Airport remains ‘open’ and ‘operational’ despite the tense situation in Davao City, as members of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) staged a massive rally blocking major roads leading to the airport.
“The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines advises all concerned that the Davao International Airport remains OPEN and OPERATIONAL. All commercial flights are proceeding as scheduled,” said CAAP in its latest advisory on Monday.
Passengers, however, are still advised to arrive at the airport well in advance of their flight schedules and to coordinate with their respective airlines for any specific instructions or updates.
“The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines is working closely with authorities concerned to ensure the safety and security of all passengers departing from and arriving at Davao International Airport,” CAAP added.
The DIA management had to adjust security protocols on Sunday evening as KOJC rallyists spilled over near its premises that impeded traffic flow, forcing many travelers to walk their way in and out of the airport.
“We have now partially opened our exit gate to vehicular traffic as roadside barricades were removed and also due to improving the situation. We are however maintaining close watch,” said Airport Area Manager Engr. Rex Obcena in a report sent to CAAP as of 1:30 p.m Monday, August 26.
CAAP information officer Karen Villanda also said the entrance gate of the airport “is now two-way to accommodate vehicles and we have normal operations at the airport.”
But major airline operators are advising travelers to allow extra time when heading to Davao International Airport due to possible traffic congestion from road closures and checkpoints near the airport.
The protest stemmed from the decision of the Philippine National Police to raid the KOJC compound in search of the religious organization’s fugitive leader Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, which resulted in the death of one of their members and the hospitalization of others.
Philippine Airlines (PAL) management stated on Monday, “Please give yourself extra time to get to Davao airport so that you can check in early for your flight.”
Cebu Pacific (CEB) also recognized the ongoing demonstrations in Davao City, affecting access to Francisco Bangoy International Airport.
“Our immediate priority is to ensure the safety of our passengers, crew, and staff. Passengers are advised to allow extra time for their journey to the airport as they may experience longer travel times,” it stated.
PAL urged travelers to check their flight status. It also mentioned that passengers with contact details in their reservations records would be informed of any flight changes via email, telephone call, or SMS.
The airline informed passengers of their options, including converting the ticket to Travel Credits, rebooking or rerouting the ticket, or obtaining a refund without penalties, excluding Ticketing Service Charge.
CEB is also offering flexible options, including free rebooking and travel fund, to passengers who want to postpone their flights from Davao.
Passengers on specific flights scheduled to depart (for Zamboanga, Manila and Siargao) on August 26, 2024, may avail themselves of these options through the Manage Booking portal of the CEB website up to two (2) hours before their scheduled time of departure, CEB stated.
“This is a developing situation, and some flight changes may take place,” it added.
Francisco Bangoy International Airport, also known as Davao International Airport, is the main airport serving Davao City and Davao Region in the Philippines. It is also the main gateway to Mindanao and was the third busiest airport in 2022.
