NAIA security monitoring to be strengthened amid 'tanim-bala' issue — NNIC

The New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC) said Monday it is coordinating with the Office for Transportation Security (OTS) for the reinforcement of security monitoring at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) following the alleged “tanim-bala” scheme.

The NNIC, operator of the country's main gateway, issued the statement after a 69-year old woman set to travel to Vietnam with her family accused NAIA security personnel of “tanim-bala” or bullet planting just as about they were about to board their flight on March 6.

The NNIC emphasized that they prioritize maintaining an airport environment that is “safe and efficient for all travelers.”

“To prevent similar incidents and strengthen public confidence, NNIC is working with OTS to reinforce security monitoring, proper screening procedures, and transparency in security operations,” it said.

“NNIC remains committed to working with the OTS and other authorities to provide a secure and seamless airport experience,” it added.

Earlier in the day, Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon announced that three OTS personnel allegedly involved in the “tanim-bala” incident have been sacked.

Dizon said he has also tasked OTS officials to review the procedures of screening and security protocols at the airport.

He also said that the Department of Transportation (DOTr) will set up a hotline where passengers can report their experiences at NAIA.

“Appropriate investigations will be conducted and the proper administrative charges will be filed after the investigation has been conducted. But now we are terminating them already today. I’ve already instructed General [OTS administrator Arthur Velasco] Bisnar to issue that order today,” Dizon said. — RSJ, GMA Integrated News