PUYAT Cabinet officials should be careful about statements they make since these may damage the reputation of the government itself, Bureau of Customs (BoC)

Lapeña made the statement regarding charges of Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat about alleged irregularities by BoC personnel at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

Lapeña said unfounded accusations by a government official may inflict undue damage to the BoC’s reputation.

“Please investigate first before issuing damaging statements,” he said.

Lapeña disputed Romulo-Puyat on her allegation about extortion and harassment on foreign passengers at NAIA perpetrated by some Customs officials.

Lapeña conducted an ocular investigation of the site of the incident where a foreigner was allegedly asked for money by a Customs personnel.

It was found that the area was not manned by BoC personnel.

NAIA District Collector Carmelita “Mimel” Talusan said the area was not a designated area for Customs.

The alleged extortion incident took place at the x-ray section of NAIA Terminal 1 near a Duty Free outlet while the BoC booth was located at the entrance of NAIA Terminal 1 Departure Area which according to Lapeña was too far from the alleged scene of the incident.

Talusan also added that if ever any foreign tourists arrive with excess baggage or brought in excessive allowable items such as cigar and liquor, they will only be required to pay the right taxes.