Senator Raffy Tulfo on Wednesday criticized the lack of anti-drone technology at airports and other critical government establishments across the country.

Tulfo’s reaction comes after the statements made by Capt. Ian Michael del Castillo of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) Operations Department in a recent Senate Committee on Public Services hearing.

Del Castillo admitted that counter-drone measures have not yet been implemented due to the high cost of subscription.

Tulfo expressed frustration, stating that CAAP has failed to explore other ways to protect the lives of millions of passengers and civilians who could be endangered if drones are not properly used.

“This could potentially become a serious threat to our national security, especially since anyone can freely purchase and fly drones in the Philippines due to the loose regulations,” Tulfo said.

“Drones could be used for terrorism, as they can be loaded with high-explosive bombs and crashed into airplanes or dropped in crowded areas,” he added.

The lawmaker also warned that the lack of counter-drone measures could pose a serious threat to national security.

According to Del Castillo, CAAP lacks expertise in this area, as its focus is solely on civil aviation.