Paranaque eyes total ban on laser pointers?

MANILA, Philippines – The local government of Parañaque City is eyeing a total ban on sale and possession of laser pointers after receiving complaints that the gadgets could pose a danger to aircraft pilots.

Parañaque City Councilor Benjo Bernabe said he recently attended a safety briefing held by Capt. Amado Soliman, officer-in-charge of the Aircraft Accident Investigation Board of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines.

In the briefing, Soliman warned that laser pointers can temporarily blind a pilot while he is landing a plane. At least 3 commercial pilots have complained of being temporarily blinded while landing a plane in the country’s airports in Parañaque City.

Soliman warned laser pointers could cause more life-threatening incidents if left unchecked.

Bernabe said he plans to pass a resolution in the city council to ban possession and sale of laser pointers.

He said he will coordinate with barangay officials to advise residents of the danger of using laser pointers on commercial aircraft.