The Office for Transportation Security (OTS) intercepted an undocumented handgun at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 during a routine screening.
The firearm was discovered when a Security Screening Officer spotted an image resembling a firearm while examining a passenger’s checked baggage through an X-ray machine.
Security personnel immediately conducted a manual inspection in the presence of airline representatives and personnel from the Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group (PNP-AVSEGROUP).
The inspection led to the recovery of a 9mm pistol, five live rounds of ammunition and an empty magazine. The items had reportedly been concealed inside a box placed within a glass bowl.
The recovered firearm and ammunition were turned over to the PNP-AVSEGROUP for proper disposition and legal action.
On the other hand, the passenger was placed under inquest proceedings for alleged violation of Republic Act No. 10591, or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.
The law requires firearm owners to have the necessary licenses and registration, as well as the appropriate permit to carry or transport firearms and ammunition.
OTS Administrator Undersecretary Gilberto DC Cruz said the incident highlights the importance of vigilant screening at airport checkpoints, particularly in preventing weapons and other prohibited items from reaching restricted areas.
“We make sure that security prohibited items do not get past our screening checkpoints, especially those that could be used to harm passengers or airport personnel,” Cruz said.
The OTS reminded passengers who are legally authorized to transport firearms by air to declare and properly present them for inspection before entering airport terminals. Those authorized to possess firearms and need to transport them by air must comply with applicable declaration, documentation, handling and security requirements before entering the terminal.
Passengers are also warned against concealing firearms, ammunition or other regulated items in their baggage. Such violations may lead to interception, confiscation, travel delays and possible criminal charges.