Travelers at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) will now keep their passports in hand during security checks, as authorities implement a new rule prohibiting security personnel from physically handling travel documents.
The updated procedure, which allows passengers to simply show their ID or passport without surrendering it, is part of efforts to safeguard personal documents and reduce contact during airport verification.
This move follows a viral social media post involving a family whose Bali vacation was disrupted when the 78-year-old patriarch was barred from boarding due to a minor tear in his passport. Airline security reportedly sent a photo of the damaged passport to Indonesian authorities, who declined its use for entry.
Although the incident occurred at the check-in counter of NAIA Terminal 3, airport officials clarified that no NAIA security personnel were involved in mishandling the document.
In response, NAIA management said it is coordinating with the Department of Transportation, airline companies, and the Bureau of Immigration to refine airport protocols and prevent similar incidents in the future.