TACLOBAN CITY — The proposed ordinance regulating activities, structures and other potential hazards around Calbayog Airport is moving forward as city officials and aviation stakeholders seek to strengthen passenger safety and support the airport’s planned expansion.
The Sangguniang Panlungsod held its third public hearing on the proposed Calbayog Airport Safety and Security Ordinance on July 17 at the city Convention Center, with local government officials, representatives of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) and community stakeholders taking part in the discussions.
The proposed measure seeks to prohibit activities that could endanger aircraft operations, including bird raising and pigeon racing within a 12-kilometer radius of the airport, open burning, rice planting near the runway, kite flying, and the use of spotlights and laser devices that could temporarily impair pilots’ vision.
It also sets height restrictions for buildings and other structures near the airport. Property owners and developers would be required to secure the necessary height clearances or permits from the City Engineer’s Office and CAAP before undertaking construction.
The public hearing also tackled regulations covering fish pens and ponds, including “bonoan,” in areas near aircraft approach paths. Operators would be required to obtain appropriate clearances and permits from the City Agriculture Office and CAAP to help prevent the presence of birds that could pose a hazard to aircraft.
Violations of national aviation laws may carry fines ranging from P50,000 to P500,000 and imprisonment of up to three years, depending on the offense. Under the proposed local ordinance, penalties would include progressive fines of P1,000 for a first offense, P2,000 for a second offense and P3,000, with possible imprisonment of up to six months or community service for succeeding violations.
The proposed ordinance comes as the city prepares for infrastructure improvements at and around Calbayog Airport, including the construction of a perimeter wall, asphalt overlay and runway connectivity projects.
Some properties in areas such as Barangay Basud may be affected by the planned developments. City officials said coordination is being undertaken with the Urban Development and Housing Act (UDHA) office to address the relocation of affected residents.
The hearing also included discussions on the proposed rerouting of National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) power lines and possible cost-sharing arrangements to ensure unobstructed aircraft operations, including one-way and nighttime landing operations.
City officials said the safety measures are intended to support the modernization and expansion of Calbayog Airport, which could eventually allow the operation of larger aircraft and help improve air connectivity and potentially reduce airfares for residents of Calbayog and nearby communities.
(JOEY A. GABIETA)
