The Office for Transportation Security (OTS) successfully convened its inaugural Aviation Security Summit on August 22, 2025, bringing together over 200 key stakeholders from government, the airline industry, and law enforcement. The landmark event aimed to enhance collaboration and establish a unified front against terrorism and other threats to the country’s transportation systems.
Aligned with the guidance of Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Vince Dizon and President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr.’s vision for a safer and more comfortable life for all Filipinos, the summit underscored the importance of open communication and coordinated action among key security players.
In his opening remarks, OTS Administrator Undersecretary Arthur V. Bisnar emphasized that transportation security is a collective and shared responsibility. “Civil aviation security is not the sole responsibility of the OTS or of any single agency or sector. It is a collective effort that requires engagement and dedication from government, private stakeholders, and the international community,” said Usec. Bisnar, calling for sustained action to protect the country’s transport systems.
In a message delivered by Lt. Gen. Raul L. Del Rosario, Director General of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), Secretary Dizon highlighted the summit’s value in reinforcing the country’s pledge to passenger safety. “This first-ever Aviation Security Summit holds notable value as it reinforces our pledge to ensure passenger safety and security throughout the country’s airports,” the message read.
The summit featured presentations and insights from security experts from the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency, National Security Council of the Philippines, and the PNP Aviation Security Group, among others, focusing on identifying and staying ahead of emerging threats to secure transport infrastructure and passengers.
The OTS also expressed its appreciation for the support and guidance provided by DOTr Undersecretary for Aviation and Airports Jim Sydiongco in elevating civil aviation security standards.
The successful summit reinforces the Philippines’ commitment to a secure and resilient transportation network and aligns with the current administration’s vision of fortifying the country’s national security.
