The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) has commended a security guard for honesty after he reported and turned over to airport management a suitcase containing cash and jewelry worth P1.9 million.
On July 21, Mahmud Mastul was on duty at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport – Terminal 1 when he saw a suitcase unattended in the arrival area.
Mastul sought assistance from personnel of the MIAA Police Department and the Police – Aviation Security Group who cordoned off the area for inspection as part of the standard operating procedure and security protocol at the airport.
The authorities cleared the suitcase of any explosive elements and during the inventory, it was found to contain jewelry and cash owned by one Miguel Castro.
The MIAA management contacted Carpio, who went back to the airport to claim the suitcase.
Mastul, 34, has been in NAIA since 2016 where he has been assigned in different areas of the airport. In his seven years at work, this is the first time that he was able to experience a situation where his honesty was put to test.
“If it’s not yours, whether it’s big or small thing, you have to surrender it because that thing doesn’t belong to you,” said Mastul.
MIAA Officer-in-Charge Bryan Co said he was happy to receive the good news about what the airport security guard did.
“Mr. Mastul’s display of honesty by promplty reporting the incident not only sets a good example to his colleagues but also proves that our efforts to promote integrity and professionalism among airport workers is gaining ground from all levels of service,” Co said.