The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Albay Province issues an ordinance declaring a sixteen (16) kilometer radius around the Bicol International Airport (BIA) as a protected area.
Approved last 04 November 2021, Provincial Ordinance 0059-2021 now prohibits the entry of unauthorized kits, hot air balloons, and any flying objects controlled by a remote control device that could obstruct aircraft operations within BIA’s immediate vicinity.
The said ordinance also prohibits the use of laser lights pointed against any aircraft, as well as the entry of persons, vehicles, and animals without the permission and approval of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) — the operator of the airport (BIA).
The government’s civil aviation arm stressed that it is not only dangerous but also illegal to use laser beams or high-intensity lights pointed at the airport and on flight paths as it could jeopardize aircraft safety.
Based on the ordinance, violators will be fined not exceeding PHP5,000 and/or imprisonment of not less than 15 days to 06 months, subject to the discretion of the court.