OTS Plans to Boost NAIA Security with 300 New Screeners

MANILA, Philippines — The Office for Transportation Security (OTS) is set to bolster its workforce by recruiting 300 additional security screening officers for deployment at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). This development follows the Department of Budget and Management’s (DBM) approval of a significant hiring request from OTS, as shared by officer in charge Jose Briones, Jr. with the Philippine News Agency.

According to Philippines News Agency, the DBM has sanctioned the hiring of 700 screeners from a requested 1,000, with the initial 300 expected to join within the first quarter. The remaining 400 positions are anticipated to be filled within the year, addressing the urgent need for more personnel at the country’s primary airport. The shortage has been acutely felt at checkpoints, which require seven staff members each to operate efficiently.

The move aims to mitigate issues such as checkpoint closures due to staff shortages when personnel are absent due to illness or emergencies. Briones also highlighted plans to utilize additional hires to strengthen security at other airports nationwide, pending the total recruitment of over 1,000 screeners.

This hiring initiative comes in the wake of controversies involving screeners in alleged theft incidents and ongoing concerns about their compensation. Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista has previously emphasized the need for better remuneration for these roles. In response, Briones acknowledged the screeners’ challenges and has taken steps to improve their working conditions, including promoting over 100 OTS personnel to enhance morale and provide wage increases.