MANILA, Philippines — Out of the total 2,474 aviation employees, only five individuals were found positive for illegal substances in 2024, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) said.
The agency conducted random drug testing last year in 44 CAAP-operated airports.
“This marks a significant improvement compared to the 16 positive cases recorded in 2023. No regular CAAP employees were involved in the incidents,” CAAP said in a statement.
The Office of the Flight Surgeon and Aviation Medicine (OFSAM) chief Dr. Rolly Bayaban said the CAAP has remained vigilant for the safety of passengers, crew, and the general public.
While the drug testing was conducted randomly, CAAP said OFSAM prioritized major commercial airports due to their higher concentration of personnel. These included Batanes Airport, Puerto Princesa Airport, Busuanga Airport, Virac Airport, Laoag Airport, Bohol-Panglao Airport, Laguindingan Airport, and Davao International Airport, among others.
“The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines is committed to strengthening the safety and security of both personnel and passengers. This initiative is not merely a regulatory requirement but a vital measure to protect lives, maintain operational excellence, and uphold the industry’s reputation for safety,” CAAP Director General Manuel Antonio Tamayo said.
The drug-testing initiative adheres to the Philippine Civil Aviation Regulation on Psychoactive Testing and Reporting, as well as the Civil Service Commission’s guidelines, which mandate drug testing for newly hired and current government employees.
It also complies with Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, which mandates immediate dismissal from service for personnel who test positive for illegal substances.
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