At the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. ARCHIVE

The Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is set to reorganize its passenger screening process to enhance traveler convenience. Under the proposed change, security screening at NAIA will occur before immigration checks, resolving long-standing issues passengers face when carrying prohibited items. Kim Marquez, spokesperson for the Office for Transportation Security (OTS), explained the current problem: “Passengers often find themselves unable to return to check-in counters to dispose of prohibited items once their passports are stamped by immigration.” Marquez emphasized that this adjustment allows passengers to check in restricted items instead of having them confiscated. Commonly confiscated items include liquid containers exceeding 100ml capacity, even if partially filled. The change has garnered support from the New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC), the airport's operator. “Rearranging the checkpoints will streamline the process for everyone,” Marquez said, though no timeline has been provided for implementing the shift. Dana Sandoval, spokesperson for the Bureau of Immigration (BI), also expressed support, stating, “We welcome any measure that improves the passenger experience.” NAIA, the country’s busiest airport, handled over 50.1 million passengers and 293,488 flights in 2024, reflecting significant growth compared to pre-pandemic levels. The surge in air travel underscores the need for smoother operations. The OTS and BI are now coordinating with the NNIC to move security screening equipment, including X-ray machines, to the new location. ICA/Expat Media
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