But in BARMM, Bangsamoro exec wants regulation on drones
KORONADAL CITY—A top official of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) has urged local governments to regulate the use of drones due to the potential of these to be used for nefarious activities, including terrorism.
Interior Minister Sha Elijah Dumama-Alba sought the regulation of drones, also called unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or remotely piloted aircraft, across the Bangsamoro region.
“If left uncontrolled or unregulated, these drones can be readily exploited for unlawful or covert purposes, such as the transportation of illegal drugs, lethal weaponry or prohibited goods,” she said.
“(These drones can also be used in) conducting surveillance on government installations, particularly those involved in investigative activities, law enforcement and prisons, thereby presenting significant security concerns,” she added.
Dumama-Alba filed before the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) Resolution No. 601 urging local authorities to enact an ordinance to regulate the use of drones in their respective jurisdictions.
The BTA is the interim body tasked to govern the Bangsamoro region.
Under study
The measure was referred on July 15 to the committees of local government, and transportation and communications for deliberation.
In pushing for the regulation of drones, Dumama-Alba, a lawyer, cited the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (Caap)’ Memorandum Circular No. 29-15 series of 2015 that outlines the rules and guidelines for the operation of UAVs in the country, covering various aspects of drone use, including registration, certification and operational limitations.
Dumama-Alba noted that drones are widely available in the Bangsamoro region.
“These are employed without significant barriers for a range of purposes, including commercial, recreational or personal uses within the geographical confines of the BARMM,” she said.
Dumama-Alba said that local governments could collaborate with the Interior Ministry and the Ministry of Transportation and Communications in developing an effective drone regulation.
The ordinance should generally be aligned with Caap guidelines, she said, adding that it should promote safe and responsible drone use while addressing privacy, security and environmental concerns.
