The Office for Transportation Security (OTS) has highlighted the seizure of two live bullets and parts of an airsoft gun at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 in renewing its warning against carrying undocumented firearms and ammunition in airports.
According to the agency, the live ammunition was detected during routine screening of a passenger bound for Davao from Manila on Cebu Pacific flight 5J 967.
OTS officer Tomas Kylle Artificio spotted an image resembling ammunition on the x‑ray monitor and initiated standard inspection procedures.
With the passenger’s consent and in the presence of the Philippine National Police–Aviation Security Group, screeners found 5.56‑caliber bullets inside the luggage. The items were confiscated, documented, and turned over to police.
The passenger was later allowed to proceed with the flight.
Later that same day, OTS personnel intercepted parts of an airsoft gun from another passenger traveling to Tacloban via Cebu Pacific flight 5J 657.
Airsoft guns — a replica firearm designed to shoot small, lightweight plastic pellets, usually 6 mm in diameter, using compressed gas, a spring mechanism, or an electric motor — and their components are classified as prohibited items and cannot be transported without proper documentation and clearance.
Airsoft guns are built to look and feel like real guns but are intended for recreational activities such as airsoft skirmishes, target shooting, and training simulations.
The OTS said the interceptions underscore ongoing efforts to enforce aviation security regulations.
“This successful interception highlights the government’s dedication under the leadership of President Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos Jr. to uphold the highest standards of passenger safety, security, and comfort across the nation,” the agency said in a statement.
The OTS urged travelers to thoroughly inspect their belongings before heading to the airport and to comply with rules on prohibited items, stressing that transportation security relies on public cooperation
