Phl joins ICAO symposium

The Philippines participated in the 18th International Civil Aviation Organization  Traveler Identification Program Symposium and Joint International Criminal Police Organization Biometrics Forum in Montreal, Canada, Malacañang said on Saturday.

Communication Secretary Cheloy Garafil said the Philippine delegation that attended the symposium from 12 to 14 September includes officials and staff of the Presidential Communications Office, the Philippine Embassy in Canada, the APO Production Unit Inc. and the Bureau of Immigration.

Garafil said the TRIP Symposium served as a platform for attendees to exchange information on all aspects of traveler identification management.

The symposium, she said, emphasized the importance of enhancing international cooperation and collaboration to improve the experience of travelers while addressing the multiple threats faced by international civil aviation.

"The two-part symposium, attended by more than 1,000 attendees from over 30 countries and jurisdictions, tackled technological developments, enhanced policies and best practices on traveler identification and border control to ensure safe and seamless travel," Garafil said in a statement.

"Among the topics discussed in the symposium include biometrics technology, machine-readable travel documents, document issuance and control, inspection systems and tools, interoperable applications, and, capacity building and assistance to states."