MANILA, Philippines  — Sen. Raffy Tulfo said that no signs of tampering or misconduct were found following a recent “tanim-bala” allegation at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA).

Tulfo, who chairs the Senate Committee on Public Services, conducted an ocular inspection at MCIA after a 47-year-old female passenger was reportedly found with four bullets in her luggage during an X-ray screening on March 27.

During his visit, Tulfo met with MCIA General Manager and CEO Julius Neri Jr. who assured him that all security protocols were followed when intercepting the bullets. Neri explained that the passenger did not deny ownership of the bullets and did not accuse any Office for Transportation Security (OTS) personnel of extortion. He also emphasized that CCTV cameras monitored the X-ray area, and after reviewing the footage, no irregularities were detected.

In addition, Neri explained that it is mandatory for OTS personnel and members of the Philippine National Police Aviation Security Unit (PNP-AVSEU) to record a video during a baggage inspection in the presence of the passenger. This ensures transparency and protection for all parties involved.

Tulfo also observed the screening process, where airport staff demonstrated how the X-ray machine automatically detects and flags prohibited items such as bullets. In a demonstration, a Senate staff member had mock bullets placed in a bag, which was then scanned by the X-ray machine. The bag was flagged, and further inspection procedures were followed, including the presence of an AVSEU officer and video recording.

The senator further inspected the airport’s sorting area for checked-in baggage and was briefed by MCIA Terminal Operations Head Jemar Nietes about the three levels of security checks in place for all baggage.

Tulfo also visited the taxi bays where standard taxi rates are posted, and passengers are provided with a slip containing the name of the taxi operator, driver, and vehicle plate number.

After the inspection, Tulfo praised MCIA for its security practices and said he would suggest adopting similar procedures at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).