MANILA — The Department of Transportation (DOTr) directed the Office for Transportation Security (OTS) to intensify oversight of airport security screening officers following the relief of three personnel accused of stealing from a foreign passenger.

The move follows a call from Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to ensure integrity and dependable service among airport staff, particularly as passenger traffic is expected to increase after the Holy Week.

“Kung mapatunayan na ang ilang mga OTS Security Screening Officers ang nangunguna sa paglabag ng batas, kabilang na ang pagnanakaw ng mga gamit o pera ng mga pasahero, tiyak na may kalalagyan kayo at sisiguruhin naming mapaparusahan ang mga nagkasala,” DOTr Secretary Giovanni Lopez said in a statement.

(If it is proven that certain OTS Security Screening Officers are leading violations of the law, including the theft of passengers’ belongings or money, you will certainly face the consequences, and we will ensure that those responsible are punished.)

The DOTr warned that personnel found to have committed violations will face both administrative and criminal charges.

According to the department, two screening officers and a supervisor assigned at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 were removed from their posts after an Australian national reported missing cash amounting to P7,000 and NTD 1,000 (P1,800).

The individuals involved are currently facing both administrative and criminal complaints.

The DOTr also urged passengers to immediately report any suspicious behavior or misconduct by airport personnel, while reminding travelers to comply with regulations on prohibited items in their baggage.