THE Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) along with major local airlines in the country has expressed its support for Department Order 2022-001 issued by the Department of Transportation (DOTr)–the department order implementing the “No Vaccination, No Ride” policy.

In its commitment to keep Philippine skies safe despite the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic to the aviation sector, CAAP has released Memorandum Circular 02-2022 limiting the access of public transportation facilities to vaccinated population.

The guidelines in the CAAP Memorandum Circular that is implementing the “No Vaccination, No Entry Policy,” will be applied to all individuals entering CAAP-operated facilities and to domestic passengers traveling to and from the National Capital Region (NCR) via any domestic or foreign air operator.

Effective immediately, CAAP Memorandum Circular 02-2022 will remain in full force and effect while the COVID-19 alert level in NCR is at Alert Level 3 or higher, as may be determined by the IATF.

“In a time as sensitive as a pandemic, prioritizing safety is a must. CAAP believes that the DOTr’s “No Vaccination, No Ride” policy will reinforce the importance of ensuring that public spaces such as airport terminals and aircraft remain as safe spaces for everyone that utilizes them,” said Director General Captain Jim C. Sydiongco

Meanwhile, in separate statements released by Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia Philippines, the airlines conveyed their approval of the policy with PAL COO Gilbert Santa Maria lauding the DOTr’s initiative, Air Asia Philippines CEO Ricky Isla describing the policy as an effective tool to encourage every Filipino to get vaccinated, and Cebu Pacific Air VP for Marketing & Customer Experience Candice Iyog saying the airline will comply with the government order which aims to protect the majority.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Jun I. Legaspi