An X-ray screener at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 intercepted undeclared cash amounting to USD273,905 (over PHP16 million) from a passenger bound for Hong Kong on Wednesday.
In a PNA report, the Office for Transportation Security (OTS) revealed in a social media post on Thursday that X-ray operator Yvonne Dujali flagged an opaque image during routine security screening at the baggage makeup area. To verify, the passenger was called through the airline to witness a manual inspection, leading to the discovery of bundles of cash.
The OTS immediately alerted personnel from the Philippine National Police – Aviation Security Group, who coordinated with the Bureau of Customs for proper handling of the seized money.
OTS Administrator Crizaldo Nieves commended the cooperation between airport authorities, stating that such teamwork effectively prevents unlawful interference and illegal activities in the country’s transportation facilities.
Travelers are reminded to declare foreign currency exceeding USD10,000 or Philippine peso amounts over 50,000 to comply with regulations.
