EDITORIAL

Kalibo International Airport In Disarray

by MEGS S. LUNN

At the onset of the maiden flight of Cebu Pacific flight from Kalibo to Hongkong last March 23, 2012, I can’t help but notice the three air conditioning units of the Kalibo International Airport (KIA), 2nd floor and the many kiosks that are located inside and outside the departure area and the obstruction of many ‘commissioners’ inside the arrival area, too.

In fairness to Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) manager, Engr. Percy Malonesio, these and many more concerns at KIA, like the awful-smelling comfort rooms beside the x-ray machine as soon as one enters the check-in/departure area, is always brought to his attention. One just wonders what really cause the delay of resolving these problems.

In my curiosity, I got the information confirmed by both CAAP and KIATA on January 30, 2012, from the Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC) and CAAP regarding the Airport Transport Violations and Their Corresponding Penalties.

The smooth operation inside the airport is sometimes troubled by incidence of violations of its rules and regulations approved to ensure peace and order of any airport.

Suspension from work is not enough penalty so the management came up to adopt Iloilo Airport’s guidelines regarding transport violation and corresponding penalties. The violations are well defined with the corresponding penalties.

These same violations are repeated every day especially during plane arrivals. Yet, there is no action taken against the culprits. One can only recognize Southwest and KIATA which are the forefront transport businesses in Aklan Tourism Industry that provide smooth transfer of tourists from KIA to Caticlan Jetty Port, Malay. It is known that Manila Tour & Travels is authorized to facilitate hotel accommodation as per contract. But it also facilitates transport with staff members who are not in proper uniform and no ID’s. This is a violation of its contract. What about the NO UNIFORM – NO ID – NO ENTRY policy for security reason? What about the rest of them who obstruct the arriving passengers outside of their table and grab the opportunity to get commissions?

On the other hand, the departure area once swamped by passengers, both domestic and international, passengers can be seen standing along the side, because the surrounding areas are all filled up by many displays and kiosks.

Many believes the kiosks occupying the area are adversely affecting comfort of the passengers. If food is needed, there are many restaurants outside the departure and arrival areas. Why does CAAP allow more shops to occupy inside the departure/arrival areas? (And why the presence of SPA?) These must be removed for lack of space. If allowed to continue occupying and doing business inside the airport, this is GREED, (for a limited space).

The people lining outside during the check-in, experience discomfort because of the presence of two money–changers kiosks. These must be relocated to give space for passengers.

How much fees does CAAP require to ensure the smooth and orderly operation inside KIA?

CAAP may allow business shop inside KIA if there is sufficient space. On the other hand, there are illegal/colurum busses and vans in the parking area of KIA many of which are badly if not illegally parked. Some of these vehicles are dilapidated which need immediate repair such as body, repainting, and its air condition.

Gov. Carlito S. Marquez has advised Engr. Percy Malonesio about the few kiosks obstructing movement of people and the good view of the airport, as well as to provide comfort to the passengers. What about the bum-barrier that is supposed to be installed as per advised by the co-chair of the Aklan Provincial Tourism Council, Ms. Vicky A. Ramos, to safeguard the legal entry of all the transportation and private cars inside the airport?

Any person who is a student of management will always ask: “Is the CAAP management in their right mind to manage Kalibo International Airport to its disarray? KIA manager, Engr. Percy Malonesio who is the anchor person in the management of KIA may not answer that above stated question. /MP