The Philippines is hosting the 59th DGCA Conference this year, which brings together government officials, airline executives, aviation infrastructure developers, and safety experts to discuss policies, conceptual issues, and global trends aimed at sustaining aviation growth in Asia and the Pacific Region.
The DGCA, or Directors General of Civil Aviation Conference for Asia and Pacific Regions, is an annual gathering of directors general from civil aviation authorities.
This five-day event, taking place in Lapu Lapu, Cebu, from October 14 to 18, serves as a crucial platform for addressing challenges in the aviation sector and emerging trends.
The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), a specialized agency of the United Nations that focuses on global air transportation and harmonization of air navigation principles, acts as the steering committee for this prestigious aviation event.
Capt. Manuel Antonio Tamayo, director general of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), remarked that hosting the DGCA presents a great opportunity to showcase the Philippines’ commitment to aviation safety and security, as well as its pledge to a sustainable future in aviation.
This year’s theme, “Shaping the Future of Aviation: Sustainable, Resilient, and Inclusive,” is considered timely and relevant on both global and regional scales.
“We are now in an era where sustainability has become a key focus. We face issues such as bird strikes linked to expanding wildlife populations and increased aircraft movements; extreme weather events affecting air operations and airport infrastructure; and the contribution of increased air travel to global warming and greenhouse gas emissions,” said Tamayo.
“To navigate these challenges, integrating sustainability into our regulatory frameworks is essential. We are proud to be one of the first ICAO member States in the region to voluntarily participate in the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation,” he added.
ICAO President Salvatore Sciacchitano, Department of Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista, and Tamayo addressed participants at the opening ceremony held at Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort, which was attended by at least 400 delegates.
The meeting focused on aviation safety, security, and infrastructure development, with industry vendors and service providers showcasing their latest products and solutions.
This marks the fourth time that the Philippines has hosted the DGCA, following previous events in Manila in 1960, 2002, and the 52nd DGCA in 2015. The country’s rich aviation history and industry commitment make it an ideal host.
With CAAP participating in this international event, the Philippines will be able to share insights and engage in dialogues on important aviation matters while promoting its aviation industry and commitment to providing safe, secure, efficient, and sustainable air transport services.
