20/07/2023
𝐎𝐓𝐒 𝐄𝐧𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐅𝐨𝐨𝐭𝐰𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝐑𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐯𝐚𝐥 𝐚𝐭 𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐒𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐜𝐤𝐩𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐰𝐢𝐝𝐞
The Office for Transportation Security (OTS) is pushing for the strict implementation of the long-standing footwear removal policy at the airport’s final security screening checkpoints nationwide.
This measure aims to enhance the overall security of passengers and airport/airline staff, in consonance with global security standards and best practices. Requiring passengers to remove footwear at the final screening checkpoint provides an advanced layer of scrutiny while identifying potential security threats.
OTS Administrator Undersecretary Ma.O Aplasca emphasized this is a long-standing policy and practice, which must be strictly implemented to ensure security at vital transportation facilities such as airports regardless of security condition level.
“The mandatory footwear removal policy is an old policy which we are trying to strictly implement, to prevent circumvention of our security processes. This policy remains to be effective in detecting prohibited items including explosives and other dangerous materials that may be concealed inside the footwear. This shall be the norm regardless of the security condition level, and even when the threat is low. We have to be proactive, hindi na natin dapat hintayin na magkaroon pa ng threat before we implement it.” Usec. Aplasca said.
He added that, “We recognize the strict implementation of this policy may cause inconvenience to the passengers. However, we are requesting for their patience and cooperation so we can achieve what we are ought to do, securing the global transportation system with our international counterparts. Our committed OTS Security Screening Officers are directed to provide clear instructions and support throughout the footwear removal process, ensuring minimal disruption to the overall travel experience.”
The OTS also advises the public to wear shoes that are easily removable, to avoid complex lacing or buckling to expedite the screening process. Moreover, the OTS reminds everyone to adhere to the current rules and regulations regarding the transportation of liquids, electronics, and other items.
The OTS along with other government agencies, is working hand in hand with the International Civil Aviation Organization to enhance the implementation of standards and recommended practices as embodied in Annex 17 to the Chicago Convention.