The ICAO-aligned program helps ensure the reliability of critical runway and airfield lighting systems that support safe airport operations around the clock.
Last June 22 to 26, 19 personnel — including airfield lighting technicians, officers, and team members with responsibilities related to airfield ground lighting operations and maintenance — of the Aboitiz InfraCapital Laguindingan Airport Corporation (ALAC), operator of Laguindingan International Airport, completed the specialized Airfield Lighting and Power Training (ALPT).
The said training program was designed to support safe and reliable airport operations and compliance with international aviation standards and was facilitated by the Airfield Training Company (ATC), an ICAO-accredited training provider based in Manchester, United Kingdom.
The said training focused on critical areas of airfield operations, including airside electrical safety, lockout-tagout procedures, maintenance and troubleshooting of runway, taxiway, approach, and Precision Approach Path Indicator (PAPI) lighting systems.
Also included were the development and documentation of preventive maintenance programs designed to support uninterrupted airport operations.
The company said that the program supports compliance with international aviation standards and helps ensure that Laguindingan International Airport, which is located in the province of Misamis Oriental, maintains the technical capabilities required for safe and continuous operations.
“Upon successfully completing the required examinations, participants will receive internationally recognized certifications in Airfield Ground Lighting Safety (AGL1) and Airfield Ground Lighting Maintenance and Compliance (AGL2),” it added.
The Airfield Lighting and Power Technicians help ensure the 24/7 reliability of runway, taxiway, approach, and other critical airfield lighting systems, which are vital safety component of airport operations that guides aircraft during takeoffs, landings, and low-visibility conditions.
Consultations with the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) and the Civil Aviation Training Center (CATC) also helped inform the training initiative, reflecting a shared commitment to strengthening technical capabilities across the aviation sector.
“Behind every safe flight is a team of technical professionals working around the clock to keep critical airport systems operating as intended,” conveyed said Ryan Ermac, General Manager of Laguindingan International Airport.
He added, “This training equips our personnel with the latest knowledge and best practices to maintain airfield lighting systems that are essential to safe aircraft operations and regulatory compliance.”
Meanwhile, Engr. Job De Jesus, Area Manager for Area 10 of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), emphasized: “Training and continuous professional development are essential to maintaining a strong aviation workforce.“
“Programs like this help ensure that airport personnel remain aligned with evolving international standards while supporting the consistent delivery of safe and reliable airport services for the traveling public,” Engr. De Jesus added.
Serving as the primary gateway to Northern Mindanao, the Laguindingan International Airport plays a key role in transporting locals and tourists to the region.
Being the seventh-busiest gateway in the country, it recorded strong domestic passenger numbers during the first quarter of 2026 as it served 616,661 passengers.