The initial security screening at Iloilo Airport will soon be removed to create more space for passengers, according to an order from Transportation Acting Secretary Giovanni Lopez.
Lopez issued the directive after inspecting the airport on Saturday, as announced by the Department of Transportation (DOTr). He gave airport management 15 days to submit a plan for implementing the new policy.
“Kailangan nang tanggalin ito kasi redundant na ‘yung proseso. ‘Yan din ang bilin ng Pangulo, maglaan ng mas malaking espasyo para sa mga pasahero, para hindi sila magsiksikan sa check-in,” Lopez said.
Passengers will still undergo a final security check before entering the boarding gates, Lopez clarified. He also instructed the airport to finalize expansion plans for the passenger terminal building.
To further reduce congestion, especially during peak hours, Lopez called for fast-tracking the rollout of automated check-in using facial ID recognition.
“Tuloy-tuloy ‘yung commitment natin to modernize our regional airports. Our passengers deserve the best travel experience, at ‘yan ang gagawin natin,” Lopez said.
Additionally, Lopez directed improvements to the airport’s runway to accommodate larger aircraft and increase capacity for international flights.