Air Force will take over NAIA if security doesn’t improve: PRRD

FILE: President Rodrigo Roa Duterte submits himself for security checkup as he makes a surprise inspection at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 2 in Pasay City on June 10, 2019. ALFRED FRIAS/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

MANILA — President Rodrigo Duterte warned that if security at the four terminals of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is not improved, the Air Force will take over.

Duterte made this warning during the 122nd founding anniversary of the Presidential Security Group (PSG) at Malacañang Park on Wednesday night.

“At naga-warning lang ako na if (And I just warning) that NAIA is not — the security is not improved there — I will order the Air Force to take over,” Duterte said in his speech.

Earlier this month, Duterte conducted a surprise inspection at the NAIA Terminal 2 following reports of flight cancellations and delays.

Duterte then ordered the transfer general aviation or domestic flights to Sangley Air Base in Cavite City by November this year.

The President also wanted airport security to be handled by a single entity, either from the military or civilian force to ensure passengers’ safety.

Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade said aside from Sangley, his agency will also be looking at Clark Airport in Pampanga and the Bulacan Airport to ease congestion at NAIA.