JUNE 23, 2012 DATE

NR # 2779B
REF. NO.

Bill creating security agency to address possible terrorist attacks proposed

A lawmaker has proposed the creation of the Philippine Transportation Security Authority (PTSA) to counter any threat or prevent any possible terrorist attacks on the countrys air, water and land transport systems. Experiences of the international community show that terrorism could strike at the most unexpected places and at the most unexpected time, said Rep. Diosdado Arroyo (2nd District, Camarines Sur), author of House Bill 6225. Arroyo cited the gruesome and unimaginable tragedy during the 9/11 terror attacks using commercial airlines that turned the majestic twin towers of the World Trade Center in the United States of America to rubble. The world had 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 public and private infrastructure and property, Arroyo said. Arroyo also cited the sinking of the super ferry off the coast of Quezon province, the Rizal Day bombing of the Light Rail Transit (LRT) and the bombing of the Davao International Airport. What is more chilling is that such acts were able to instill fear in the hearts and minds of people, Arroyo said. These local and global incidence of terrorist attacks have brought to our attention the importance of formulating a comprehensive security program to protect our air, water and land transport systems, under a singular administrative authority armed with enough law enforcement powers to prevent, if not eradicate, security threats to precious human lives and property, Arroyo said. Under the bill, co-authored by Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo (2nd district, Pampanga), the proposed Philippine Transportation Security Authority under the Department of Transportation and Communications will consolidate civil aviation, maritime, land and rail national security programs throughout the country to prevent lawless violence and terrorist attacks. The Authority, which shall be headed by an administrator with the rank of undersecretary and appointed by the President, shall, among others, exercise control and supervision over all police and security agencies performing, pursuing or rendering transportation security services.

JUNE 23, 2012 DATE

NR # 2779B
REF. NO.

It 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 authority, among others, shall formulate, promulgate and develop, in coordination with appropriate government agencies, comprehensive and flexible security plans, policies, measures and programs to ensure the safety and security of all means of transportation in the country. (30) dpt