(Manila, 18th) The Philippine Civil Aviation Authority (CAAP) announced that six airport employees have been dismissed after testing positive for drugs.
The agency stated that between February and August this year, 1,703 employees at 14 airports, out of the 44 under its jurisdiction, underwent random drug tests, and six were found to be involved with drugs.
Data shows that three employees at Butuan Airport tested positive, while one employee each at General Santos International Airport, Ozamiz Airport, and Bacolod-Silay Airport was involved with drugs.
CAAP pointed out that the drug tests were conducted in accordance with the “Philippine Civil Aviation Regulations on Psychotropic Drug Testing and Reporting” and the Civil Service Commission's regulations, which require compulsory drug testing for newly hired and current civil servants.
Dr. Bayaban, Director of the CAAP Flight Surgery and Aviation Medicine Office, stated that the agency takes drug testing very seriously, as the safety and efficiency of aviation operations highly depend on the mental and physical health of personnel.
He emphasized that the Civil Aviation Authority assures the public that every flight within Philippine airspace is supported by qualified and drug-free personnel, ensuring the highest standards of aviation safety.
CAAP added that it will continue to strictly enforce monitoring mechanisms and strengthen personnel accountability to safeguard passenger safety and maintain public trust.