Asian non-profit representative body AsBAA is to host industry stakeholders and VIPs including government officials at its inaugural AsBAA Safety Day and Pilots' Day, which is being held in Manila, the Philippines from 13-14 November.

Head of the Philippines Chapter, Benjamin 'Jay' Lopez, says: “We recognise the importance of the Philippines as a growth market. The region has experienced six to seven per cent GDP growth for the past five years and we expect continued forward growth over the medium term. This will continue to attract foreign direct investment and business-related flights.

"To ensure these opportunities are maximised, AsBAA will lead on cooperation and communications with the authorities. Our mission is to provide a bridge between industry and regulators to ensure a prosperous and safe industry ecosystem in the Philippines."

The Safety and Pilots' Day will welcome senator Grace Poe, congressman Cesar Sarmiento, secretary Arthur 'Art' Planta Tugade, Lt. Gen. Galileo Gerard R Kintanar Jr., AsBAA vice chairman Phil Balmer and a host of other speakers.

AsBAA advocates the implementation of international standards such as IS-BAO and IS-BAH. The association promotes a culture of safety best practice at a regional and local level through its country chapters and regional safety days. The association has active chapters in greater China and southeast Asia, and the Philippines Chapter has been one of the most active due to interest in local opportunities for growth and development.

Adds Lopez: “The industry has been cited as one that is primed for growth and advancement in the Philippines. However, there is also a need for more prudent, stringent, and practical approaches to business and general aviation regulation, especially in relation to safety. The attendance of our distinguished speakers indicates the rising interest in the sector and the requirement for neutral, non-profit organisations such as AsBAA to take the lead in actively ensuring a safer environment.”