THE Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) is awaiting official guidelines from its main office before fully implementing a policy on restricting power banks in airports.
According to Engr. Rex Obscena, CAAP Area Manager, while some airlines already impose limits on power banks in carry-on luggage, a uniform policy is yet to be enforced across all airports.“In the coming days naay ipagawas na regulation para uniform ang application sa mag regulate (“In the coming days, a regulation will be released to ensure a consistent application of the policy),” Obscena said in a radio interview on Davao City Disaster Radio (DCDR) on April 10, 2025.
He said restrictions on power bank capacities are not unique to the Philippines and are also enforced internationally. A specific milliampere-hour (mAh) limit determines whether a power bank can be brought on board.
Obscena mentioned that a memorandum outlining the official guidelines is likely already drafted and may be released soon.
In the meantime, he advised passengers to bring only power banks sufficient for charging their phones and to avoid using substandard or unbranded devices. He also urged travelers to check with their respective airlines for specific rules on whether power banks can be brought in hand-carry or checked-in baggage.
Earlier, on March 25, CAAP issued a reminder to travelers to inspect their power banks for damage and to observe safety protocols for a safe journey.
Here’s a quick look at the current power bank policies of major Philippine airlines:
• AirAsia Philippines: Allows up to two power banks with a maximum of 100 watt-hours (Wh). Devices between 100 Wh and 160 Wh require approval at check-in.
• Philippine Airlines: Permits power banks under 100 Wh. Devices between 100 Wh and 160 Wh must be declared at check-in. Business class passengers must carry power banks in their hand luggage, and in-flight charging is not allowed.
• Cebu Pacific: Power banks under 100 Wh are allowed. Devices between 100 Wh and 160 Wh need clearance at check-in. Power banks must be in hand-carry luggage, and charging during the flight is strictly prohibited. RGP with reports from SunStar Cebu