DOTr, OTS dismiss NAIA officers over alleged baggage pilferage incident

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Office for Transportation Security (OTS) have dismissed three screening officers allegedly involved in a baggage pilferage or tanim-bala incident at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 on 6 March 2025.

Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon emphasized on Monday that the DOTr will strictly enforce accountability among government personnel, in line with President Marcos’ directive. He referenced a recent case involving Land Transportation Office (LTO) personnel in Panglao, Bohol, who were dismissed for manhandling a farmer.

“We are sending a message loud and clear to everyone in government that we will not tolerate this sort of behavior against our citizens. We are not fooling around here,” Dizon stated.

Despite the immediate dismissal, the DOTr confirmed that a formal investigation will continue, with charges to follow once completed.

OTS Administrator Undersecretary Arthur Bisnar reassured the public that misconduct among airport security personnel will not be tolerated, especially in light of the widely circulated social media footage of the incident.

“Hindi kailangang bastusin o i-harass ang ating mga pasahero para siguruhin ang security ng ating airport. Marami pong paraan para maipatupad ang security ng ating airport,” Bisnar said.

The DOTr reiterated its commitment to upholding stringent security measures that align with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards while minimizing disruptions for travelers.