The government of Mandaue City is taking decisive action to enhance aviation safety by proposing a new ordinance that will strictly regulate the use of laser lights, drones, kites, and balloons. This move comes in direct response to urgent safety concerns raised by the Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) Authority.
Airport Request Drives City-Wide Regulation
City Councilor Jesus Arcilla, who chairs the committee on energy, confirmed that the proposed measure was initiated by a formal request from the airport's management. He emphasized that the entire city of Mandaue falls within the airport's critical flight path and area of operational responsibility, making such regulations necessary.
"The request came directly from Mactan Airport. Because Mandaue City is within its area of operations, the use of lasers, kites, drones and balloons needs to be strictly regulated or prohibited," Arcilla stated. He highlighted that these objects pose significant hazards to aircraft, especially during the sensitive phases of takeoff and landing, citing various international and local aviation incidents linked to such interference.
Barangays to Lead Local Enforcement
The proposed ordinance aims for comprehensive, city-wide implementation. All 27 barangays of Mandaue City will be integral to the enforcement framework. Each local barangay will be tasked with the primary responsibility of monitoring and ensuring compliance within its own jurisdiction.
"This will be a regulated effort. The airport has requested strict enforcement, and each barangay will be responsible for ensuring that lasers, kites, drones and similar objects do not interfere with the airspace," Arcilla explained. The geographic location of Mandaue places it entirely under the airport's functional jurisdiction, necessitating the blanket coverage of the regulation.
Penalties and Next Steps
Specific penalties for violators of the proposed drone regulation and restrictions on other items have not yet been finalized. Councilor Arcilla indicated that the sanctions will be determined after a series of public hearings, with substantial input from MCIA authorities to ensure the punishments match the level of risk posed to aviation safety.
"The penalties will depend on the outcome of the public hearing. Airport authorities will help determine the appropriate sanctions," he said. As of the latest update, no schedule has been set for these public consultations. The City Government is still coordinating with MCIA management regarding their availability. Arcilla assured that the media would be promptly informed once the hearing dates are finalized.
