Regulate drones in Malay, Boracay for safety

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL
 

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or drones will be regulated to address security, public health and safety concerns in Malay, Aklan and Boracay Island.

Sangguniang Bayan member Jupiter Aelred Gallenero said regulating the use of UAVs for recreational purposes will ensure the drones are operated responsibly by drone owners.  

Drones with cameras are increasingly popular in many tourist destinations like Boracay and are used for aerial photography, weddings, events and advertising, even by filmmakers for commercial and civilian uses. 

Drones are also being used in the military for surveillance, reconnaissance and intelligence gathering.  

The proposed measure of Gallenero requires drone enthusiasts and commercial operators to obtain “special purpose permits” from LGU Malay for their equipments before flying the drones. 

Gallenero said drone owners are allowed to fly up to 200 feet above ground and within the line of sight of the persons operating it. 

Unmanned drones, however, are prohibited from flying in restricted air space of Boracay airport (Caticlan), during the night and severe weather conditions in Malay. 

The operation of UAVs, renamed Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS), are also regulated by Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP).

Under CAAP Memorandum Circular No. 35 in 2014, no UAV controller or pilot may operate unless in possession of a UAV Certificate of Authorization to operate the drones.

The pilot must have completed a training course conducted by the UAV Manufacturer in the operations of the type of drone to be used, passed theories of flight knowledge test and have at least 5 hours experience outside controlled airspace.

The article was originally published by independent online blog Aklan Forum Journal. The unrestricted use in print or radio, publication and distribution of articles are allowed provided the original author and Aklan Forum Journal are credited.