CAAP airports ready for Kalag-Kalag, typhoon Leon

CEBU, Philippines — Airports in the country under the Civil Aviation Authority in the Philippines (CAAP) are now on heightened alert, not only in observance of Kalag-Kalag 2024, but also in response to typhoon Leon.

Yesterday, Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista conducted an inspection to assess the operational efficiency of the CAAP's Communications, Navigation, and Surveillance/Air Traffic Management (CNS/ATM) systems in anticipation of the surge of air travelers during All Saints and All Souls Day.

Secretary Bautista confirmed that all CNS/ATM systems are fully operational to prevent any untoward incidents, with CAAP personnel on standby and contingency plans in place to minimize potential flight disruptions during this peak travel period.

“As travelers return home to honor their departed loved ones, we are committed to ensuring that their travel is seamless and safe,” Sec.Bautista said.

CAAP has ensured that safety and security features have been added, guaranteeing reliable operations during this holiday season.

The country’s Transportation chief also convened with 12 area managers, as well as Transportation Undersecretary for Aviation Roberto Lim, and CAAP Director General Capt. Manuel Antonio Tamayo to discuss the effective implementation of Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Undas 2024 or Kalag-Kalag in Cebuano in 44 CAAP-operated airports.

Area managers have reported that airport facilities, including chillers and escalators, are fully operational, and necessary supplies, such as medical kits, are well-stocked.

Malasakit Help Desks are also on standby, and Malasakit Kits have been distributed starting yesterday to ensure strict security, simulation exercises have been conducted in advance.

“I am pleased that we are all fully prepared for All Saints’ Day operations. Let us ensure continuous vigilance at our airports, verify that all equipment is operational, and that personnel are fully ready to serve. Coordinate closely with other government agencies and airlines to ensure seamless operations. It is our duty to provide a safe and smooth experience for all passengers,” Bautista emphasized.

Aside from that, CAAP airports are proactively reinforcing facility safety measures to prioritize the well-being and resilience of affected areas in preparation for typhoon Leon.

"Our airports are on heightened alert, not only for the expected surge in passengers but also in response to Typhoon Leon,” said CAAP Director General Capt.Tamayo.

“While some of our affected airports have already recovered from the Typhoon Kristine, we continue to support relief operations for those impacted. I have also directed our Area Managers to provide continuous reports on the status of our facilities," Tamayo added.

On the other hand, the Department of Transportation alongside Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC), and Scam Watch Pilipinas have also reactivated “Oplan Bantay Lakbay: Undas 2024”.

The information drive, which started yesterday and will run until November 5, aims to ensure a safe and efficient travel experience for Filipinos and tourists traveling within the country during this period.

As part of its campaign, the public had been advised to be careful against open and unsecured Wi-Fi; fake e-wallet apps; fake customer service; fake accommodation; too-good-to-be-true deals; fake travel agents; charity cons; counterfeit cash; hidden CCTVs; and fixer of tickets.

The CICC's Inter-Agency Response Center (IARC) Hotline 1326 operates 24/7 during the Oplan Bantay Lakbay campaign for those who needs their assistance against these scammers. —/ATO (FREEMAN)