This policy paper investigated the present security issues and problems in general aviation in the main airport in the country. It examines the capability of the PNP AVSEGROUP Aviation Security Unit National Capital Region (AVSEU NCR) in the implementation of security measures with special emphasis on inter-agency coordination.
The Open Systems Model Approach was used and participants came from PNP Aviation Security Group (AVSEGROUP), Office for Transportation Security (OTS), Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), Bureau of Customs (BOC), Bureau of Immigration and Deportation (BID), Bureau of Quarantine (BOQ), and Manila International Airport Authorities (MIAA). The qualitative and descriptive approach research methods were used and data were gathered through interviews.
Results revealed that the PNP AVSEGROUP AVSEU NCR is seen as effective in the implementation of security measures in the general aviation areas of NAIA. The level of coordination between AVSEU NCR and other units is deemed as moderate and participants indicated that there are still lots of areas for improvement as there were recurring problems and challenges. Among the issues and challenges are the inadequate general aviation security measures at NAIA GenAv areas, the increasing threats to general aviation, and the current challenges in checking of documents and air cargo. Other policy-related problems were also mentioned and highlighted including that of the limited manpower assigned in GenAv areas. They also recognize that general aviation is far more open and vulnerable than commercial aviation and illegal activities may occur in these areas.
Project G.E.N.A.V was endorsed and it centered on the creation of a unified and holistic Policy Manual and Guidelines on General Aviation. This is achievable through inter-agency coordination and among the lead unit/agencies are PNP Aviation Security Group, Office of Transportation Security, Manila International Airport Authority, and Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines.