The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines revealed on Sunday that airports under its supervision are already placed on high alert in anticipation of the influx of passengers at airports for the Christmas and New Year celebrations.

CAAP said that the policy is in accordance with the Department of Transportation's "Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Pasko 2023," which is in effect from 15 December 2023 to 3 January 2024, adding that all 12 area centers handling CAAP airports which accept commercial flights are now observing additional security measures and personnel deployment to ensure safe, dependable and convenient airport operations during the holiday travel season by returning overseas Filipinos, civilians, and tourists.

The Office of Transportation Security and the Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group — the two government agencies active at the airports — will also station personnel in high-risk areas to facilitate passenger flow while closely adhering to security and public safety protocols.

Malasakit Help Desks are also available to assist travelers and respond quickly to inquiries from the riding public. They are positioned at the passenger arrival and departure areas.

Additionally, travelers are reminded not to bring prohibited items to the airport and to stow all belongings in one's carry-on baggage for faster processing at the screening checkpoints.

The increased number of passengers over the Christmas season has been frequently anticipated by the CAAP. Over 2 million domestic and international travelers arrived at CAAP airports on 20 December 2022, bringing the total number of passengers for the year to 20.5 million.