Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez has delivered a strong warning to airport personnel found violating the law, particularly those accused of stealing from passengers.
In a statement released by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Sunday, April 5, Lopez assured that corrupt Transportation Security Office (OTS) Security Screening Officers (SSO) will face consequences.
“Kung mapatunayan na ang ilang mga OTS Security Screening Officers ang nangunguna sa paglabag ng batas kabilang na ang pagnanakaw ng mga gamit o pera ng mga pasahero, tiyak na may kalalagyan kayo at sisiguruhin naming mapaparusahan ang mga nagkasala,” Lopez said.
The warning came after Lopez ordered the relief of two SSOs and one supervisor at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 on Friday, April 3. The move followed a complaint from an Australian passenger who reported losing ₱7,000 and NTD 1000 (New Taiwan Dollars) allegedly due to theft.
The three personnel are now facing both criminal and administrative charges.
Lopez also encouraged travelers to report any suspicious behavior by airport staff. He reminded passengers to avoid carrying prohibited items to prevent unnecessary baggage inspections.