Davao international airport acquires new security equipment

DAVAO CITY — Security was beefed up again at the Davao International Airport with the recent acquisition of seven new baggage X-ray machines to be used in strategic areas in the multibillion-peso facility, considered among the most modern in the country.

"Right now, the new X-ray machines are still in the burning process needed for them to start up properly. These machines could be used in two weeks’ time," said Chief Superintendent Ramon Salvilla, Southern Mindanao chief of the Aviation Security Group.

Salvilla told The STAR the new scanning equipment could help ensure that everything that gets inside the airport is safe.

At present, the Davao International Airport has only a few scanning machines serving thousands of passengers every day.

"Now that we have the new X-ray machines, we will also be able to effectively (conduct) security checks on airport employees and those working for the concessionaires. We can make sure that everything that gets inside the airport, including the food at the different eateries, is thoroughly checked," Salvilla said.

He said the necessary measures have been put in place to ensure security at the airport, especially at the runway and tarmac.

While his office takes care of security within the airport terminal and hangar, Salvilla said other agencies such as the Police Regional Mobile Group, Task Force Davao and the Air Transportation Office are also assigned to certain areas within the entire airport complex.

Salvilla said those waiting for and sending off their relatives are no longer allowed near the airport terminal.

This, after a powerful explosion struck a waiting shed at the old Davao airport on March 4, 2003, killing at least 20 people and wounding over 200 others.

"We have established a buffer zone, which is a safe distance, and no one can just loiter around the terminal," Salvilla said.

Instead of putting up one big waiting shed for the public, Salvilla said airport authorities opted for smaller tents spread out in the parking area. — Edith Regalado