Authorities at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 apprehended a 54-year-old Filipino woman last Tuesday after a routine check revealed an outstanding arrest warrant for a violation of the Bouncing Check Law (BP 22) from nearly a decade ago.

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) reported that immigration officers at the departure area identified the woman, a resident of Tuao, Cagayan, during pre-boarding procedures for an overseas flight.

Upon verification, they discovered a current warrant issued by a Manila court in connection with a criminal case filed almost ten years prior. The warrant carried a recommended bail of P12,000.

The BI immediately alerted the NAIA Terminal 3 Police Station (NAIA-PS3), and a joint operation with the Manila Police District was conducted. Law enforcement officials approached the woman, served the warrant and ensured the arrest complied with all legal and procedural requirements.

Authorities said that the suspect is currently detained at the Manila Police District’s Barbosa Police Station for proper handling.

“The immediate interagency coordination that stopped a fugitive from fleeing the country is excellent,” said Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group (PNP-AVSEGROUP) director P/BGen Christopher Abecia.

“No matter how much time has elapsed since the infraction, this operation demonstrates the PNP-AVSEGROUP’s and our partners’ ongoing attention in enforcing the law and guaranteeing due process,” he added.