Acting Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Giovanni Lopez has given the Iloilo International Airport management fifteen days to implement the removal of the initial security screening, which he described as “redundant.”
Lopez issued the directive during an inspection at the airport on Saturday, Sept. 28, stressing that the move was in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s instruction to enhance the travel experience by streamlining airport processes nationwide.
“Kailangan nang tanggalin ito kasi redundant na ang proseso. Ang bilin ng Pangulo, maglaan ng mas malaking espasyo para sa mga pasahero, para hindi sila magsiksikan sa check-in,” he said.
The transport chief explained that while the initial checkpoint will be scrapped, a final security screening before boarding gates will remain in place to guarantee passenger safety.
Lopez also pressed the airport management to accelerate modernization plans, including the expansion of the passenger terminal building and the rollout of automated check-in counters with facial ID recognition.
These upgrades, he said, would help decongest the facility, particularly during peak hours when long queues frustrate travelers.
“Tuloy-tuloy ang commitment natin to modernize our regional airports. Our passengers deserve the best travel experience, at ‘yan ang gagawin natin,” he added.
Beyond terminal improvements, Lopez ordered the airport to prioritize runway upgrades to accommodate bigger aircraft, paving the way for expanded passenger capacity and more international flights.
The 15-day deadline places pressure on airport officials to finalize an actionable plan, or risk drawing scrutiny for failing to comply with a national directive.
For thousands of travelers who pass through the airport each week, the removal of the first checkpoint could spell faster lines and a more comfortable journey.IMT
