US takes down old travel advisory vs Manila

MANILA, Philippines, April 7 ------ The United States Transportation Security Administration (TSA) removed an outdated 2018 travel advisory mistakenly displayed at Sacramento International Airport, following swift intervention by Philippine transportation officials. 

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) confirmed no new US advisories have been issued against Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) or any other Philippine airport, dispelling confusion caused by the resurfaced notice. On Sunday, a social media post circulated showing a US advisory cautioning travelers about "security concerns" at NAIA, a notice originally issued in 2018 but rescinded in 2019 after the Philippines implemented major security upgrades. 

DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon immediately contacted TSA officials in Manila, demanding clarification and urging the advisory's removal to prevent unnecessary alarm. By 9 a.m., the TSA confirmed the erroneous posting had been taken down. "This outdated advisory does not reflect the current situation," Dizon said in a statement. "The Philippines has long complied with international aviation security standards, and we acted swiftly to correct this misinformation to protect our reputation and reassure travelers." 

In August 2019, the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) lifted the advisory after validating NAIA's enhanced security measures. Since then, no new warnings have been raised against Philippine airports. The DOTr and the New NAIA Infra Corp. reiterated their commitment to maintaining the highest safety and security standards at NAIA and all Philippine airports. "This incident underscores the importance of accurate information," Dizon said. "We will continue working closely with international partners to ensure seamless and secure travel for all passengers." 

Source: manilatimes.net