JAN.

17, 2014

NR # 3349

Solons propose creation of security agency to address terrorist attacks

Two lawmakers have proposed the creation of the Philippine Transportation Security Authority (PTSA), a central security agency that shall be tasked to protect the countrys air, water and land transport systems from local and international terrorist attacks !eps "iosdado Arroyo (#nd "istrict, $amarines Sur) and %loria &acapagal' Arroyo (#nd "istrict, Pampanga) filed (ouse )ill *+,- or the proposed Philippine Transportation Security Authority Act, which seeks to consolidate civil aviation, maritime, land and rail national security programs throughout the country to prevent lawless violence and terrorist attacks Arroyo said the world has been witness to the spate of terrorist attacks inflicted upon transportation systems and facilities, which resulted in the reckless loss of lives and enormous damage to properties ./t is worth mentioning the train bombing in &adrid, Spain and the 0122 bombings in the 3nited States of America wherein terrorists used various airplanes to take lives and destroy property 4hat is more chilling is that such acts were able to instill fear in the hearts and minds of people all over the world,5 Arroyo said Arroyo also cited the sinking of the super ferry off the coast of 6ue7on province, the !i7al "ay bombing of the 8ight !ail Transit (8!T) and the bombing of the "avao /nternational Airport ./t is important to formulate a comprehensive security program under a singular administrative authority like the PTSA with enough law enforcement powers to prevent, if not eradicate, security threats to precious human lives and property,5 Arroyo stressed 3nder the measure, the PTSA is mandated to encourage, promote, formulate, implement and ensure the installation of standard security and safety measures and policies that are internationally'acceptable for the prevention of transportation disasters and for the protection, security and safety of passengers, transportation facilities and properties The PTSA shall e9ercise control and supervision over all police and security agencies performing, pursuing or rendering transportation security services /t shall be responsible for the security of all modes and means of public transportation systems in the Philippines including, but not limited to, the screening of passengers, baggage or cargo, hiring and retention of security screening personnel:

training and testing of personnel in security screening, inspection, verification and audit The PTSA, among others, shall formulate, promulgate and develop, in coordination with appropriate government agencies, comprehensive and fle9ible security plans, policies, measures and programs to ensure the safety and security of all means of transportation in the country /t is also directed to implement, review and continue to upgrade such plans, policies, measures and programs periodically to improve transportation security and safety on sound professional concepts and principles An initial funding of P;++,+++,+++ is appropriated for reorgani7ing and constituting the PTSA (*+) lvc