Caap Airports Now on Heightened Alert as Crising Approaches
MANILA, Philippines — The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (Caap) has placed all 44 of its managed airports under heightened alert due to Tropical Depression Crising moving closer to the country. This precaution aims to ensure safety and readiness across the aviation sector as the storm threatens land areas.
Caap Director General retired Lt. Gen. Raul Del Rosario ordered all airport and area managers in vulnerable regions to immediately activate their Airport Emergency Plans. This swift action is part of Caap’s efforts to safeguard passengers and maintain airport operations during adverse weather.
Coordinated Efforts to Protect Passengers and Facilities
Del Rosario also instructed airport officials to work closely with local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils, airline operators, and other stakeholders. The goal is to keep airport facilities secure while ensuring passenger safety and uninterrupted service.
“This move aligns with the directives of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon to prioritize public safety and sustain transport services during severe weather,” sources said.
Focused Preparations in Bicol Region Airports
Airports in the Bicol Region, including Legazpi, Naga, Virac, and Masbate, are intensifying their preparations as they expect to bear the brunt of Tropical Depression Crising. Caap reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the resilience and readiness of all managed airports nationwide.
“The Authority remains focused on protecting air travel operations while prioritizing the welfare of the flying public,” local officials noted.
Weather Updates and Affected Areas
According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration’s (Pagasa) 5 a.m. advisory, Crising was last located 535 kilometers east of Juban, Sorsogon. It is moving west-northwest at 15 kilometers per hour with sustained winds of 55 kph and gusts up to 70 kph.
Pagasa raised Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 over several provinces and municipalities, including Cagayan (with Babuyan Islands), Isabela, parts of Aurora, Quirino, Kalinga, mountain areas of Mountain Province and Ifugao, northeastern Nueva Vizcaya, and Apayao.
The storm is expected to intensify into a tropical cyclone category as it moves northwestward within 48 hours, heightening the need for vigilance and preparedness.
For more news and updates on Caap airports now on heightened alert, visit Filipinokami.com.
