MANILA, Philippines — Three airport personnel are facing the chopping block after a routine luggage check at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 allegedly turned into a disappearing act for an Australian traveler’s cash.
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) announced on Sunday that Secretary Giovanni Lopez has ordered the immediate relief of two Security Screening Officers (SSO) and one supervisor. The move follows reports that an Australian national, who was bound for Cebu, lost nearly P9,000 in various currencies during the screening process last week.
The passenger reported that P7,000 and NTD 1,000 (approximately P1,900) went missing from his belongings after passing through the security checkpoint. While the investigation is ongoing, the swift relief of the personnel signals a “zero-tolerance” approach from the current administration.
“If it is proven that OTS security screening officers are the ones leading the violation of the law—including stealing from the very people they are meant to protect—they will be held accountable,” Secretary Lopez warned in a stern statement. He emphasized that the perpetrators would face both criminal and administrative charges.
This latest incident adds to a troubling history of theft allegations involving Office for Transportation Security (OTS) personnel. Just last year, the airport made international headlines when a female screener was caught on CCTV allegedly swallowing $300 in stolen bills to hide the evidence.
OTS Administrator Undersecretary Gilberto Cruz echoed the Secretary’s sentiments, stating that any “violation of trust or misconduct” would be met with “appropriate consequences.”
In response to the incident, the DOTr has ordered a stricter “close watch” on screening officers and a review of terminal protocols. Authorities are also urging the traveling public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior by airport staff immediately.
As the Philippines continues to recover its tourism numbers, officials are keen to ensure that the country’s main gateway is remembered for its hospitality, not for its light-fingered security.