(INQUIRER FILE PHOTO / GRIG C. MONTEGRANDE)
MANILA, Philippines — Office for Transportation Security (OTS) Ma.O Aplasca has tendered his resignation in the wake of several reported cases of theft at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Naia).
Aplasca’s resignation came after Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez on Monday issued an ultimatum for him to resign right before the House of Representatives tackles the OTS’ proposed budget or he will personally block it.
“In view of the pronouncement of Congressman Romualdez that he will personally block the approval of the budget of OTS and DOTr (Department of Transportation), I have come to this decision to officially submit my courtesy resignation for the consideration of SOTr and the President,” said Aplasca in a letter obtained by INQUIRER.net, which he later also confirmed himself.
“I am not in any way ready to sacrifice my organization but I consider this as a noble undertaking for a greater interest,” he added.
The letter was addressed to President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., and was sent through DOTr Sec. Jaime Bautista.
Aplasca, however, maintained that he had done nothing wrong as OTS chief, and that all he did was “wage an honest campaign against corruption in all our airports nationwide.”
“It is just unfortunate that as we weed out the scalawags in our ranks, it will always draw media attention and tarnish the reputation of our country,” Aplasca said.
“But I can assure His Excellency that the good men and women of OTS will not falter in its commitment to cleanse its ranks to finally deliver your promise of a convenient, affordable, safe and secured transportation system,” he added.
Prior to his resignation, the OTS faced criticism anew from both the public and several lawmakers after an OTS personnel allegedly stole and swallowed $300 from a departing passenger at Naia Terminal 1 on Sept. 8.
Last Feb. 22, 2023, a Naia screening personnel was also caught stealing money from a Thai passenger.
Just days later, another officer was arrested for allegedly stealing a Chinese tourist’s watch.
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