By Gabriela Baron
Local airports are gearing up for the possible effects of super typhoon “Mawar” in the country as it is expected to enter the Philippine area of responsibility by Friday or Saturday morning.
The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) assured Thursday, May 25, that it is actively implementing its preparation measures and coordinating with stakeholders in anticipation of the super typhoon.
Airports that may potentially be affected include Tuguegarao Airport in Cagayan, Basco Airport and Itbayat Airport in Batanes, and Cauayan Airport and Palanan Airport in Isabela.
Meanwhile, airports in Laoag, Vigan, and Baguio are also gearing up for possible harsh weather conditions.
As of Thursday, CAAP Tuguegarao Airport assisted in the delivery of 1,000 boxes of relief goods from the Department of Social Welfare and Development Region 2 via C-130 aircraft from Tuguegarao to Basco Airport in preparation for the coming super typhoon “Mawar.”
In a message, CAAP Area Center 2 Manager Mary Sulyn Sagorsor said that precautionary measures are being undertaken by Tuguegarao Airport for “Mawar,” such as clearing of waterways and canals and cutting of branches of trees near the passenger terminal building especially at the arrival area and other areas inside the airport’s premises.
CAAP also initiated coordination meetings with stakeholders to ensure a synchronized disaster risk reduction response.
The agency also assured that its personnel are positioned and ready to implement necessary measures to safeguard the facilities and ensure the safety of passengers and personnel.
CAAP urged the public to stay informed, and are also advised to contact their respective airlines for updates on flight schedules and any changes that may arise due to the typhoon. – cf