Office for Transportation Security (OTS) Administrator, Undersecretary Gilberto G. Cruz, completed his first official visit to the Security Screening Officers (SSOs) at Tacloban Airport on Thursday, December 11, 2025, since assuming office in October.
The visit, a crucial part of the Administrator’s proactive nationwide effort to strengthen frontline support and uplift the morale of security personnel, directly aligns with the directive of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. to prioritize the welfare of government workers who serve the public.
Usec. Cruz was joined by Transport Security Oversight and Compliance Service Director Reginald Rapanan and Maritime Transportation Security Division Chief Florendo Quibuyen.
Beyond the routine inspection of security screening operations, Administrator Cruz personally conducted a comprehensive welfare check for the Tacloban SSOs. This initiative is aimed at ensuring that the country’s transportation security frontliners are not only well-equipped but also genuinely well-supported.
During his interaction, Usec. Cruz met with screening officers on duty, inquired about their working conditions, and attentively listened to their concerns and recommendations. He underscored the agency’s commitment to providing a conducive work environment, adequate staffing, updated equipment, and clear opportunities for career development.
“Our Security Screening Officers are the backbone of Philippine civil aviation security,” Usec. Cruz stated. “Their well-being is paramount. By prioritizing their needs and providing them with the necessary tools and support, we ensure they can continue to effectively safeguard the traveling public while maintaining the highest levels of national and international aviation security standards.”
The direct engagement from the agency’s top leadership served as a significant morale booster for the Tacloban SSOs, who expressed appreciation for the Administrator’s personal attention to their welfare.
The OTS leadership is set to continue similar site visits across the country. These ongoing engagements will ensure that frontliners receive consistent, on-the-ground support and that all security operations nationwide remain fully aligned with established national and international aviation security standards.
