President Benigno Aquino III won't rush implementing the open skies policy even if this is among his options to protect the public from possible service disruption due to the labor row at flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL).
Malacanang hasn't scrapped this option yet as communications group Sec. Ricky Carandang said authorities concerned will evaluate the matter first.
"The decision is to study this," he said Friday during a Palace briefing.
He noted the transportation and labor departments will be among agencies involved in such study.
This week, President Aquino raised the possibility of implementing the open skies policy as PAL's labor woes appear to be worsening.
PAL's cabin crew members are planning to strike next month since they're protesting the company's labor regulations.
Mr. Aquino maintains negotiations between PAL's labor and management must take into account national interest since the company is a service provider, however.
He identified the open skies policy as one means of protecting public interest as this will bring forth entry of new airlines to serve existing and proposed routes.
"It's among solutions to the country's aviation problems," Carandang said.
Entry of new airlines will increase availability of flights so movement of people and goods won't be derailed even if PAL suspends operations due to its labor problems. - PNA
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