Many travelers, particularly from the United States, have complained of missing articles in their luggage when they arrive in the Philippines. While there were some instances where the loss occurred in the place of departure, many losses were also believed to have occurred in Manila. Under the homeland security rule in the US implemented three years ago, all passengers, domestic or international, should leave their luggage unlocked in case inspection was necessary.

MIAA General Manager Alfonso Cusi said security will be strengthened at the ramp areas of NAIA to avoid pilferage of passengers’ baggage, Cusi said in a statement. “We want to prove to our valued travelers that their baggage remain safe with us here at the NAIA,” Cusi said MIAA security teams and the Philippine National Police- Aviation Security Group (PNPASG), tasked to secure the airside area of the NAIA complex, “shall conduct increased patrolling, search and inspections, especially at the baggage build-up and make-up areas.” Cusi said that the increased security would also prevent attempts by terrorists and other “unscrupulous individuals” from sabotaging passengers’ luggage in the hold-baggage area.

“Baggage pilferage is quite rampant,” retired general Angel Atutubo, MIAA assistant general manager for security and emergency services, admitted in an interview with the Inquirer also on Tuesday. “We’re doing our best to solve this.”