In a bid to develop aviation security capabilities and positive security culture, the Bangsamoro Airport Authority (BAA) of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications, in collaboration with the Office of Transportation Security (OTS), conducted a 10-day Basic Aviation Security (AVSEC) Training Course to empower its 26 security personnel from Cotabato (Awang), Sanga-Sanga and Jolo Airports with technical knowledge and other aviation security related matters to ensure the proper performance of all its authorized functions, pertinent regulations and challenges in handling security assurance, the safety of passengers and to implement uniform security measures in BARMM-managed airports. The activity will run from February 20- March 1, 2024, at Froziini’s Restaurant, MB Tamontaka, Cotabato City.
Facilitated by Certified OTS AVSEC Instructors Jonathan Gabuco of OTS -Puerto Princesa International Airport and Sheila Barrios, the participants are expected to have encompassing guidance on essential aspects of security management to ensure appropriate move of accountabilities and responsibility assignment of enforcing, monitoring, and applying security measures to carry out the function of safeguarding the airport, the passengers, the general riding-public, and the airport infrastructure against unlawful acts as per International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Standards and Recommended Practices. Annex 17 of the Chicago Convention of the ICAO is the basis of aviation security that provides the standard procedures and guidance for the civil aviation industry to safeguard the industry against acts of interference. This activity resonates with the commitment of the Ministry to fulfilling its obligation under the prevailing laws, rules, and regulations since the turnover of the landside operations from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) to BAA.