Authorities arrested a 66-year-old retired US serviceman at NAIA Terminal 3 after X-ray personnel discovered two air guns inside his balikbayan box. The Taguig City resident was about to board a Cebu Pacific flight to Puerto Princesa when flagged by airport screeners.
The Aviation Security Group (Avsegroup) conducted a manual inspection and confirmed the presence of the unlicensed air guns. He was charged with violating the Omnibus Election Code in connection with the ongoing Commission on Elections (Comelec) gun ban.
Brig. Gen. Christopher Abecia of the Avsegroup said the arrest was carried out with full legal protocol, including the use of an Alternative Recording Device, as mandated by the Supreme Court.
Abecia reminded the public that even imitation firearms resembling real weapons are prohibited during the gun ban period, which remains in effect until June 12, 2025.
In a related case, a Romanian national was previously arrested for carrying ammunition in his backpack at the airport, highlighting the continuing risk and penalties associated with unauthorized transport of weapons or components.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline “Air guns land retired US serviceman in NAIA detention.”