Fate of CAAP chief hangs

MANILA, Philippines - A Palace official said yesterday President Arroyo would await the recommendation of Transportation Secretary Leandro Mendoza on whether to replace Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) chief Ruben Ciron.

A workers’ group, citing the leader’s alleged incompetence, is seeking the ouster of Ciron.

Deputy presidential spokesperson Gary Olivar commented on the call of CAAP Employees’ Union to replace Ciron after the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) listed the Philippines as among the countries with unsafe civil aviation systems.

“If there is something that needs the President to look at, then obviously she will do it. But at this point, I think this is a matter that is still within the DOTC (Department of Transportation and Communications) under Secretary Mendoza,” Olivar told a news briefing.

He however, stressed the CAAP under Ciron’s leadership has also its accomplishments and that the ICAO also cited the agency’s programs after the listing came out.

“I think if there are complaints coming from employees’ unions, Secretary Mendoza can help address them,” he said.

He said there is no doubt that Mrs. Arroyo could crack the whip on the CAAP to make it shape up.

“But at this point, the whip is with Secretary Mendoza,” Olivar said.

Ciron earlier said he was not entirely to blame for the poor rating given by ICAO to the country’s aviation system.

He pointed out that ensuring aviation safety is not a one-man job, but requires full cooperation of all CAAP personnel. – Paolo Romero