THE ILOILO International Airport tested its response time, preparedness, and interoperability in handling a bomb explosion incident through a full-scale simulation exercise over the weekend. Manuela Luisa F. Palma, acting airport manager, said the drill showed huge improvement in the airport’s communication capabilities. “We have made improvements especially in the communication aspect. The last time we conducted this activity we had few lapses so for this one we have improved on it,” she said. One of the evaluators of the drill, Aletha A. Nogra of the Office of Civil Defense-Western Visayas, said the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP)-Iloilo, which manages the airport, complied with the requirements for the activation of the emergency operations center. Ms. Nogra added that small improvements can still be made for a more efficient and effective operations of the airport, particularly on its radio communication and interoperability. “All in all, successful. But there were some recommendations, particularly in enhancing the radio communications inside CAAP and interoperability of the extended hospital for the patients,” she said. The airport is required to conduct a full-scale drill every two years as a certified aerodrome. “Iloilo airport is a certified aerodrome and as an aerodrome, we are required to conduct drills. This is also to test the interoperability of the various agencies who help us when it comes to possible incidents that may happen in the airport,” Ms. Palma said. The Iloilo airport is located in the town of Cabatuan, about 30 kilometers from Iloilo City. According to Ms. Palma, the airport accommodates around 3,400 to 4,000 inbound and outbound passengers every day with an average of 31 average flights. It was voted among Asia’s 20 best airports, taking the 18th spot, in the 2019 survey of airport guide and resource site sleeping in airport. — Emme Rose S. Santiagudo

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