21/07/2023
๐๐๐ ๐๐ง๐ก๐๐ง๐๐๐ฌ ๐๐ฆ๐ฉ๐ฅ๐๐ฆ๐๐ง๐ญ๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง ๐จ๐ ๐
๐จ๐จ๐ญ๐ฐ๐๐๐ซ ๐๐๐ฆ๐จ๐ฏ๐๐ฅ ๐๐ญ ๐
๐ข๐ง๐๐ฅ ๐๐๐๐ฎ๐ซ๐ข๐ญ๐ฒ ๐๐๐ซ๐๐๐ง๐ข๐ง๐ ๐๐ก๐๐๐ค๐ฉ๐จ๐ข๐ง๐ญ๐ฌ ๐๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐ฐ๐ข๐๐
The Office for Transportation Security (OTS) is pushing for the strict implementation of the long-standing footwear removal policy at the airportโs final security screening checkpoints nationwide.
This measure aims to enhance the overall security of passengers and airport/airline staff, in consonance with global security standards and best practices. Requiring passengers to remove footwear at the final screening checkpoint provides an advanced layer of scrutiny while identifying potential security threats.
OTS Administrator Undersecretary Ma.O Aplasca emphasized this is a long-standing policy and practice, which must be strictly implemented to ensure security at vital transportation facilities such as airports regardless of security condition level.
โThe mandatory footwear removal policy is an old policy which we are trying to strictly implement, to prevent circumvention of our security processes. This policy remains to be effective in detecting prohibited items including explosives and other dangerous materials that may be concealed inside the footwear. This shall be the norm regardless of the security condition level, and even when the threat is low. We have to be proactive, hindi na natin dapat hintayin na magkaroon pa ng threat before we implement it.โ Usec. Aplasca said.
He added that, โWe recognize the strict implementation of this policy may cause inconvenience to the passengers. However, we are requesting for their patience and cooperation so we can achieve what we are ought to do, securing the global transportation system with our international counterparts. Our committed OTS Security Screening Officers are directed to provide clear instructions and support throughout the footwear removal process, ensuring minimal disruption to the overall travel experience.โ
The OTS also advises the public to wear shoes that are easily removable, to avoid complex lacing or buckling to expedite the screening process. Moreover, the OTS reminds everyone to adhere to the current rules and regulations regarding the transportation of liquids, electronics, and other items.
The OTS along with other government agencies, is working hand in hand with the International Civil Aviation Organization to enhance the implementation of standards and recommended practices as embodied in Annex 17 to the Chicago Convention.
