Passengers Passing Through Mactan Airport Advised to Expect More Security Checks

Passengers passing through the Mactan Cebu International Airport (MCIA) have been advised to expect additional security measures following the deadly explosion in Davao City Friday night.

These security measures include increased police visibility, inspection of vehicles entering the airport compound and frisking in the X-ray areas by the Office of Transportation Security (OTS).

“While there is no specific threat to MCIA at the moment, the measures are precautionary in nature and are designed to ensure the best possible level of protection is afforded to passengers and staff at the airport,” MCIA Authority General Manager Nigel Paul Villarete said.

GMR-Megawide Cebu Airport Corp. (GMCAC), the private company that runs the Mactan airport terminal, also posted social media messages advising passengers to allow for more time for airport processes, like security checks.

“MCIAA, GMCAC, PNP-Aviation Security and OTS are asking for the public’s understanding on the added inconvenience passengers and other airport users will be exposed to,” read the GMCAC statement e-mailed by Genna Mijares, head of corporate affairs and brand management.

“We apologize for whatever inconvenience this causes even as we ask for everybody’s cooperation in these trying times,” the statement said.

Senior Superintendent Richie Posadas, chief of PNP-Aviation Security Unit 7, asked for a Special Weapons and Tactics team from the Lapu-Lapu City Police Office to help secure the checkpoint closest to the airport.

Cebu Port Authority (CPA) General Manager Edmund Tan has also directed the port police to be on heightened alert and intensify security checks at the passenger terminals in Cebu ports.(PNA) SCS/EB/RSM