Airport authorities have confiscated over half a million firearms and other banned items at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and other major airports since January, the Office for Transportation Security (OTS) reported Saturday.
The seizures were made during routine security screenings amid a gun ban imposed by the Commission on Elections, which remains in effect until June 12. Among recent incidents, a Japanese national at NAIA Terminal 1 was caught with a firearm in his baggage before boarding a flight to Kansai, while a passenger in Tacloban was found with a replica MP5 submachine gun.
OTS Administrator Arthur Busnar said seized items also include firearm components, sharp objects, flammable liquids, and incendiary devices. Some passengers claimed the ammunition was meant as souvenirs or amulets, which are still prohibited.
Authorities reminded travelers that carrying such items not only delays flights but may also cause panic and lead to criminal charges. Some apprehended passengers were members of the police or military.
The OTS reiterated that travelers must secure proper permits, such as a Permit to Transport from the PNP Firearms and Explosives Office, before bringing firearms or ammunition to any airport.