Manila: The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has dismissed six airport workers after they tested positive for drugs. This announcement was made on Monday, highlighting the authority's commitment to maintaining safety standards across its operations.

According to Philippines News Agency, a total of 1,703 employees underwent random drug testing at 14 of the 44 CAAP-operated airports between February and August. Notably, three of the employees who tested positive were stationed at Butuan Airport. General Santos International Airport, Ozamiz Airport, and Bacolod-Silay Airport each had at least one employee who failed the drug test.

The drug testing initiative is part of CAAP's compliance with the Philippine Civil Aviation Regulation on Psychoactive Testing and Reporting, as well as with the Civil Service Commission's requirements for mandatory drug testing of new and existing government employees. Dr. Rolly Bayaban, the chief flight surgeon of CAAP's Office of the Flight Surgeon and Aviation Medicine, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating that the safety and efficiency of aviation operations are heavily reliant on the well-being of aviation personnel.

To reassure the public, CAAP stated, "CAAP assures the flying public that every flight within Philippine airspace is supported by a capable, drug-free workforce committed to the highest standards of aviation safety." The authority reaffirmed its commitment to strict monitoring protocols and personnel accountability to ensure passenger safety and maintain public trust.