59th DGCA closes with agreements for safer skies for travelers across Asia-Pacific region

LAPULAPU CITY – The 59^th Directors General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) Conference in Cebu, Philippines on October 14-18 wrapped up agreements, initiatives and collaborative programs that would ensure safer skies, promote sustainability, resilience and inclusivity in aviation across the Asia-Pacific Regions as over 400 delegates from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Asia and Pacific Member States and international organizations talked about notable topics on Aviation Safety, Air Navigation, Aviation Security and Facilitation, and the Economic Development of Air Transport, and Aviation and Environment.

(Turnover of the hosting to Sendai, Japan for the 60th DGCA in 2025)

The 5-day conference for one, formalized the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Philippines and Southeast Asian Nations to enhance aviation safety by joining Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand in Regional Aviation Safety Data and Information Sharing Initiative.

“The cross-border nature of aviation demands that we work together. Through this agreement, we will collectively identify emerging trends and hazards, allowing the continuous development of proactive measures that advance safety goals across the Asia-Pacific. Together, we will ensure safer skies for all,” CAAP Director-General Captain Manuel Antonio Tamayo said.

Tamayo bared that this collaboration was first proposed at the Asia-Pacific Summit for Aviation Safety in Singapore in 2023, reflecting the Philippines’ commitment to ensuring the highest standards of aviation safety in the region.

The shared data, sourced from mandatory safety reporting systems, will initially focus on seven key safety categories, including severe turbulence and dangerous goods incidents. The Philippines will play an active role in collecting and analyzing this data to identify regional safety trends.

On day 3 of the conference, sessions and agreements focused on ICAO’s Capacity Development and Implementation, Ratification of International Air Law Treaties, and the Expansion of the ICAO Council. CAAP director general Tamayo urged the Conference to advocate an additional seat for the Asia-Pacific Region in the Council.

Tamayo said that the Asia-Pacific region is home to the fastest-growing aviation market, contributing significantly to global air traffic. Yet, despite its economic importance and the sheer size of the region’s aviation sector, APAC is still being underrepresented on the ICAO Council.

“With the impending expansion of the ICAO Council to 40 seats, it is critical that the Asia-Pacific region collectively advocates for at least one additional seat to reflect our strategic role in international aviation to ensure that the interests of our region, including its unique challenges and rapid growth, are adequately reflected in ICAO’s decision-making process,” Tamayo added.

59^th DGCA opens, ends with a bang

Delegates described the opening and closing ceremonies of the 59^th DGCA as “unforgettable,” “lively” reflecting and showcasing the best of the local hospitality, culture and the vibrant atmosphere of the entire conference and local tours.

The Philippines has a proud history with the DGCA, having first hosted the event in Manila in 1960, and again in 2002 and 2015.  This year marked the country's fourth time hosting with Cebu serving as the dynamic setting for the 59th DGCA at Dusit Thani on October 14-18, 2024 with the theme “Shaping the Future of Aviation: Sustainable, Resilient, and Inclusive.”

Building on this theme, Tamayo highlighted its critical importance saying that for many years, the industry and the world at large did not fully prioritize or address the climate impact of air transport.

“Today, we know better. Sustainability allows us to adapt to unforeseen disruptions while maintaining safety and efficiency at the core of our operations. Equally important is inclusivity, ensuring that no man, no woman, and no country is left behind,” he concluded. (Photos: CAAP FB/MBCNewman)