No cases, just confiscation: New MIAA chief has solution for 'laglag bala'

The new general manager of the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) Ed Monreal said he has prepared a solution to the "laglag bala" modus at airports.

Monreal said airport authorities will simply confiscate any bullets allegedly found in passengers' luggage instead of pursuing cases.

"Wala na po tayong pagfa-file na kaso, it's just a matter of confiscation then let the passengers go," Monreal said in a report by GMA News' Ivan Mayrina on "24 Oras."

"May konting documentation para sigurado nating ma-record lang pero 'di na natin sila ma-aapprehend," he added.

The MIAA chief noted that the filing of cases for carrying bullets inside airport terminals serves as an opportunity for erring airport personnel to do corrupt practices.

"Kasi doon nag-uumpisa 'yung alam niyo na. Kung matatanggal natin ang avenue na 'yun, wala tayong problema," Monreal said.

A bullet is a prohibited item under the RA 10591 or the Comprehensive Law on Firearms and Ammunition.

"Ang una tatanggalin natin dun ay ang alleged corruption. Hindi ho natin binabalewala ang batas pero kailangan naman po pag-ibayuhin natin 'yung nararapat sa ating mga manlalakbay," Monreal noted.

At least 20 cases of "laglag bala" have been reported by GMA News since September 2015.

One of the most prominent cases of "laglag bala" involved Lane Michael White's allegation of an extortion attempt amounting to P30,000 by several airport security personnel for him to be spared from possible charges.

The successive cases of "laglag bala" exposed in the media have cost the image of NAIA's management and has been one of the issues thrown against the Aquino administration.

Airline passengers lauded the measure anounced by the new MIAA general manager.

"Makabubuti 'yan sa Pilipino para wala nang abala," a NAIA passenger said. —John Ted Cordero/JST, GMA News