IN an effort to lead in promoting sustainability, resilience and Inclusivity in aviation, the Philippines, through the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), is hosting the 59th Conference of Directors General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) of the Asia and Pacific Regions in Cebu on October 14, 2024.
CAAP spokesman Eric Apolonio said the conference brings together over 300 delegates, including the Directors General of Civil Aviation from across the Asia-Pacific region, to engage in high-level discussions on key issues such as aviation safety, security, and economic development of air transport. With the theme “Shaping the Future of Aviation: Sustainable, Resilient, and Inclusive,” the event highlights the urgent need for the industry to adapt to evolving global challenges while addressing environmental, operational, and social priorities.
Building on this theme, CAAP Director General Capt. Manuel Antonio Tamayo highlighted its critical importance, stating, “For many years, the industry and the world at large did not fully prioritize or address the climate impact of air transport.
Today, we know better. Sustainability allows us to adapt to unforeseen disruptions while maintaining safety and efficiency at the core of our operations. Equally important is inclusivity, ensuring that no man, no woman, and no country is left behind.”
Transportation Secretary Jaime J. Bautista, in his keynote address, expressed his strong support during the meeting of aviation leaders, emphasizing the crucial role of such gatherings in advancing civil aviation regulation. He also highlighted that while CAAP is working diligently to raise its standards to be on par with those of neighboring countries, the Philippine government is actively supporting these efforts through strategic infrastructure development.
“As of August 2024, we have successfully completed 53 airport projects, a remarkable increase from just 17 in June 2022, further solidifying our dedication to building a resilient and modern aviation network that supports sustainable growth across the region,” Bautista said.
Apolonio said the Philippines has a proud history with the DGCA, having first hosted the event in Manila in 1960, and again in 2002 and 2015. This year marks the country’s fourth time hosting, with Cebu serving as the dynamic setting for the 59th DGCA, which will take place over five days and conclude on October 18, 2024.
