In a significant move to strengthen regional aviation safety, the Australian government has donated ten high-performance laptops equipped with the latest X-ray Tutor (XRT) Software to the Office for Transportation Security (OTS).
The donation, valued at AUD 229,200.00 (approximately ₱8,758,671.72), provides Security Screening Officers (SSOs) with cutting-edge virtual reality training. This technology is designed to sharpen the detection and interception of prohibited items and potential threats to civil aviation.
The X-ray Tutor Software serves as an advanced simulation tool, replicating real-world airport screening scenarios. It allows personnel to:
Practice identifying evolving threats in a high-stakes, controlled environment.
Improve accuracy and speed in detecting dangerous goods.
Standardize training across the country’s transportation hubs.
The handover ceremony was attended by Australian Deputy Head of Mission Nicholas Kay and Department of Home Affairs First Secretary Daniel Bell.
“Australia and the Philippines have a long history of working together to protect critical infrastructure,” stated Deputy Head of Mission Kay. “That commitment grew even stronger last year with the signing of the joint declaration on the strategic partnership. Protecting infrastructure relies on strong collaboration and working hand-in-hand with international counterparts.”
OTS Administrator Undersecretary Gilberto DC Cruz and Deputy Administrator Assistant Secretary Jose A. Briones Jr. accepted the donation, noting that these tools are central to the agency’s continuous professional development program.
This initiative marks the fifth such donation from Australia since 2011, reflecting a sustained commitment to Philippine security. The collaboration aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to enhance government capabilities through innovation and international engagement.
By integrating this technology, the OTS ensures that Filipino security frontliners remain world-class, well-equipped, and prepared to safeguard the traveling public against modern security challenges.
