OTS intercepts undeclared training pistols from foreign passengers at NAIA Terminal 3

The Office for Transportation Security (OTS) reported that eight pieces of undeclared training pistols were intercepted from two foreign passengers at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport last Thursday, May 21, 2026.

In a statement posted on Tuesday, May 25, 2026, the OTS said Security Screening Officers (SSO) intercepted the pistols from the checked baggage of the foreign passengers bound for San Francisco at the NAIA Terminal 3.

"The prohibited items were initially detected during routine X-ray screening by SSO Angela Yaguel, who immediately notified Baggage Inspector SSO Edden Inting and Checkpoint Supervisor Lemuel Jay Delmonte, who also coordinated with the PNP AVSEGROUP, the airline representative, and the owner of the luggage," the OTS said.

"With the passengers’ consent, the OTS team conducted a manual inspection of the baggage, confirming the presence of the prohibited items, which were immediately turned over to the PNP AVSEGROUP for proper custody and documentation," it added.

The OTS said that after verification, it was found that the passengers were US military personnel who failed to declare the necessary documents at the PNP Firearms Depository Booth.

"After completing the required clearance procedures, the passengers were then allowed to proceed with their flight," the agency added.

OTS Administrator Undersecretary Gilberto DC Cruz issued a reminder to properly handle and declare firearms and similar items in relation keep airports safe and secure.

“If you are carrying firearms, firearm parts, or similar items, please make sure to declare them at the PNP Firearm Depository Booth before your flight, which is usually located near the airport’s main public entrance. By doing so, it will help you and the entire security operations to prevent delays, avoid unnecessary alarm and with this simple act of compliance, it can make every journey safer and more secure for everyone” he said. — BAP, GMA News