The Philippine Air Force is ready to implement security measures at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport upon the orders of President Duterte.
Major Aristedes Galang, PAF spokesman, said the aerial service branch of the Armed Forces of the Philippines is “always prepared” to be of service to the public.
“Lagi naman po kaming prepared on any eventuality kung halimbawa we’ll be directed by the President to take over NAIA,” Galang said.
“Ang atin pong kasundaluhan ay trained for security since we also have our own facilities na kagaya ng ating NAIA. Kung ipapa-take over, hindi naman magiging problema kasi handa naman po kami,” he stressed.
Duterte had earlier warned that he will order PAF to take over the NAIA if security won’t improve.
“I am issuing a warning. If that NAIA is not, the security is not improved there, I will order the Air Force to take over,” Duterte said during the 122nd anniversary of the Presidential Security Group Wednesday.
The Manila International Airport Authority, a branch of the Department of Transportation, manages the NAIA.
Galang said they have enough personnel to ensure airport security since they have reserve personnel trained for such deployment.
He refused to divulge how many personnel will be deployed or what security adjustments will be made in case the PAF is ordered by the commander-in-chief to take over NAIA. (Martin Sadongdong)
