If you’re gearing up for a journey to the Philippines, it’s crucial to brace yourself for an airport experience. This is the time of the year that’s bound to be busier than the usual routine. The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has rolled out a new directive. It mandates the heightened baggage screening measures at the nation’s airports.
Enhanced Baggage Screening in Philippine Airports
What Travelers Need to Know About The Recent Mandate?
This stringent new rule is in force from Saturday, October 28 to Saturday, November 4. It’s primarily due to the impending local council elections and the forthcoming All Souls’ Day holidays. The CAAP has issued a directive to all 42 airports across the country. It is to maintain a state of heightened vigilance throughout this period. This will inevitably contribute to potential travel disruptions.
Impact on Travelers
With the ramped-up baggage screening procedures in place, travellers should be prepared for extended waiting times at the airport. Eric Apolonio, the spokesperson for CAAP, has issued an advisory. It urges passengers to factor in extra time when planning their flights in and out of the Philippines. This will thus, help with minimizing the adverse impacts of potential delays.
Upon reaching their destination in the Philippines, travellers are obligated to complete a Customs Baggage Declaration Form. This must be submitted to the Customs Examiner along with their baggage. When baggage is identified by X-ray personnel with an ‘X’ tag, it will be subjected to a meticulous 100% physical examination carried out by the examiner. In cases where the goods are taxable, corresponding duties and taxes will be collected as per regulations.
Also Read: 7 Dishes To Eat On A 2-Day Trip To The Philippines
Additional Security Measures
In tandem with the amplified baggage screening, passengers en route to Canada, Australia, and the United States will undergo supplementary security screenings in Manila. This applies to all passengers. It applies to even those with connecting flights necessitating transfers between different terminals in Manila. This additional security measure stems from facility constraints and compliance with Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine (CIQ) requirements.
What Is All Souls’ Day?
In the Philippines, All Souls’ Day, also called Araw ng mga Patay, is a special day for prayer and remembering loved ones who have passed away. The festival celebrations usually take place every November 2nd and is a Catholic holiday. In 2023, President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. declared it a special non-working holiday for the whole country through Proclamation 42. On this day, people visit cemeteries to be with their deceased family and friends. Although it has religious origins, it’s a day that unites families in remembrance, making it an important part of Filipino culture and spirituality.
Conclusion
While these augmented security measures may introduce some inconvenience into travellers’ journeys, they remain indispensable for ensuring the safety and security of all passengers. To mitigate the impacts of potential delays, it is advisable for travellers to judiciously plan their itineraries and allocate extra time at the airport. In light of these changes, it’s essential to note that the Philippines remains an invigorating and captivating destination, well worth experiencing despite the temporary adjustments in place.
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