OWNERS and operators of drones, including flying enthusiasts, would not be totally free to operate their drones unless they follow the rules and regulations of an ordinance which will be tackled initially this month during public hearings scheduled by the Davao City Council committee on peace and order headed by Councilor Ma. Belen “Mabel” S. Acosta.
The passage of an order on the operation of drones has been requested by Davao City Mayor Sara Z. Duterte-Carpio herself.
Councilor Acosta said that there is a need to pass the ordinance to address safety and security concerns.
The operation of drones worldwide is now being subjected to strict regulations as these flying contraptions are capable of carrying explosives which are used in terrorist attacks.
Acosta told reporters recently that the first public hearings are already scheduled during the resumption of city council sessions after the Christmas holidays
Several stakeholders, among them drone owners and operators, are being invited to join the hearings, Acosta said.
“We would like to invite them all so that we can come up with a sound ordinance,” the lady lawmaker said.
Among the provisions considered is the designation of selected areas where the drones may be allowed to be flown, Acosta said.
In a related development, retired police officer Angel Sumagaysay, deputy head of Daao City’s Public Safety and Security Command Center (PSSCC), said the operation of drones by those who wish to have aerial coverage of the forthcoming Davao Regional Athletic Association (DAVARAA) meet at the University of the Philippines-Mindanao sports complex in Mintal, Davao City later this month will not be allowed unless with a specific authority from the PSSCC.
“Even if their drone is registered with the CAAP (Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines), we will confiscate it, because it is now being used by threat groups, “Sumagaysay said. AMA with Ralph Lawrence Llemit.
