In a strong display of inter-agency solidarity, Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) Director General Retired Lt. Gen. Raul Del Rosario emphasized the critical link between infrastructure modernization and national security during the Office for Transportation Security (OTS) Flag Raising Ceremony on Monday, February 23, 2026.
As the Guest of Honor and Speaker, Lt. Gen. Del Rosario underscored that the Philippines’ ambitious goals for aviation growth are contingent upon a seamless integration of safety and security protocols.
Addressing the men and women of the OTS—an agency he led as Administrator from 2019 to 2022—Del Rosario highlighted that regulatory compliance and airport efficiency cannot exist in a vacuum. “As CAAP moves forward with airport modernization and infrastructure upgrades, OTS remains a vital partner,” Del Rosario stated. “In every expansion plan, every operational enhancement, and every compliance audit, security integration will always be part of the equation.”
He further noted that aviation safety and security serve as the foundation of public trust and are essential drivers of national development.
Recognizing the tireless work of frontline security personnel, the Director General reminded the assembly that the ultimate metric of success is the peace of mind experienced by the traveling public.
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On Public Trust: “Kapag nararamdaman ng mga pasahero na ligtas sila sa ating mga paliparan, ibig sabihin nagtatagumpay tayo sa ating tungkulin,” (When passengers feel safe in our airports, it means we are succeeding in our duty), Del Rosario remarked.
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On Global Competitiveness: The collaboration aims to ensure Philippine aviation meets international standards, aligning with the directives of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez.
The reaffirmed partnership marks a commitment to proactive risk management as the country continues to expand its regional airports and enhance its international gateways. By synchronizing CAAP’s regulatory oversight with the OTS’s security mandates, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) ensures a more resilient and globally competitive aviation landscape.
