The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) stood its ground on Sunday that there was “no irregularity” in the actions of airport personnel action in the recent ‘tanim-bala’ incident reported at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).
“The DOTr-MIAA firmly maintains that there was no irregularity on the actions of screening personnel, who simply strictly followed standard operating procedures,” the MIAA said in a statement.
According to the investigation conducted by MIAA, the luggage of Kristine Bumanlag Moran was wrapped in plastic prior to check in.
Moran earlier claimed that she was a victim of a new ‘tanim-bala’ scam at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 on June 15.
Authorities found a bullet inside Moran’s luggage during the initial security check. A baggage inspector and police personnel of NAIA reportedly came to the screening section to verify the report.
The MIAA said that after the verification was completed, one piece of live ammunition for caliber 9mm was found at the bottom of the front pocket of Moran’s luggage.
“Ms. Bumanlag was informed of this, and was told that the item will be confiscated. Ms. Bumanlag was also assured by the screening personnel that after documentation, she and her companions will be allowed to board their flight bound for Zamboanga,” the MIAA said.
“Unfortunately, even after these assurances, Ms. Bumanlag created a scene and uttered foul allegations to the airport personnel, which she also posted on Facebook,” it added.
The MIAA also said that “finding ammunition, or other prohibited items, is a fairly common incident during baggage screening.” /ee
READ: Duterte orders probe of ‘tanim bala’ incident at Naia