GENERAL SANTOS CITY (PIA) – The General Santos City International Airport recently underwent a full-scale simulation exercise as part of its ongoing efforts to further improve its emergency plan.
The activity also aligned with the requirements of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), which mandates that all aerodromes catering to commercial flights perform such an exercise at least once every two years.
Aerodrome Safety Manager Gasi Figueroa said this year’s simulation exercise featured two scenarios: an aircraft accident at the airport and an act of unlawful interference.
“Our scenario for this year is what we call an aircraft accident at an airport; this is actually a runway excursion. And the second one is an act of unlawful interference, wherein someone declared that he has a bomb on his chest while the flight is en route from Manila to Davao, then diverted to General Santos City,” Figueroa explained.
He explained that the exercise showed the airport’s commitment to improving emergency preparedness, ensuring the safety and readiness of the General Santos City International Airport.
“The Gensan International Airport is ready for any contingency or emergencies, and we are always finding ways to improve our services, including the emergency response,” he said.
Airport Manager Joel Gavina also highlighted the activity as a crucial step in securing Aerodrome Certification, which is an important recognition of an airport’s readiness and capability in identifying potential hazards and handling and resolving emergencies.
He emphasized that achieving this certification is a significant milestone in enhancing the airport’s overall operational standards, ensuring the safety of its passengers.
By adhering to these guidelines, aerodromes can maintain a high level of operational safety and efficiency, Gavina underscored.
The official also expressed his gratitude to all participants for their dedication and collaboration, despite the challenges posed by the hot weather conditions during the exercise.
“Maraming maraming salamat po sa lahat po ng nakiisa sa activity na to, although na masyadong napakainit pero yung, [kooperasyon] niyo po ay sobrang init din, ‘yung pinakita niyo pong suporta dito sa second airport emergency flight simultaneous exercise,” he said.
(Thank you very much for your participation and cooperation during this activity, despite it being extremely hot. We highly appreciate your support for this second emergency flight exercise.)
The simulation brought together key participants from various agencies and sectors, showcasing a unified response to potential emergencies.
Among the lead agencies were the Philippine National Police for law and order, the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) for health and medical services, the Bureau of Fire Protection, the Office of Civil Defense, the Philippine Red Cross, local hospitals, and other response clusters. (HJPF – PIA SarGen)
