Travelers breeze through the Iloilo International Airport following the lifting of the initial screening procedure at the terminal entrance on Oct. 10, 2025. CAAP 6
NATION

Initial screening scrapped; staff gate reopens in Iloilo Airport overhaul

Fraye Cedrick Anona

ILOILO CITY — Passengers flying out of Iloilo International Airport can now move faster through terminals after authorities abolished the initial screening checkpoint.

The new setup, implemented on 10 October, is part of a sweeping directive from DOTr Acting Secretary Giovanni Lopez to remove redundant inspections and ease congestion while upholding international aviation security standards.

Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) Director General Ret. Lt. Gen. Raul Del Rosario said the reform underscores the country’s push toward “smart, secure, and seamless” travel.

“This move enhances passenger comfort without compromising safety, putting our airports at par with global practices,” Del Rosario said.

To complement the shift, airport authorities reopened the Employees’ Entrance, providing a secure, exclusive access route for personnel and improving internal coordination within the terminal.

Engr. Eusebio Monserate Jr., Acting Area Manager of CAAP Area Center VI, said the adjustments mark a key step in operational efficiency.

“We’re streamlining processes without sacrificing security. This is modern airport management in action,” Monserate stressed.

Ahead of the rollout, the Airport Security Committee fine-tuned procedures, redeployed screening equipment, and reorganized manpower to maintain safety compliance under the revised system.

Officials assured travelers that despite the scrapping of the first checkpoint, Iloilo International Airport remains fully compliant with global aviation safety protocols — merging speed, security, and service in one seamless system.