People traveling through Philippine airports might need to check their luggage again before boarding. Air transport officials have released a new list of items they are not permitted to carry inside planes.
Items not allowed in hand-carried luggage
The Office for Transport Security released the new list on July 25. It focuses mainly on the items not allowed to be included in hand-carried luggage. Among the new items included are manicure implements like nail cutters and nippers.
The OTS also said that carpentry tools are now included in the list. Aside from the obvious ones like saws and hammers, the order covers items like extension cords and retractable tape measures.
Additionally, aviation security officials reminded that certain sports equipment will not be permitted inside the plane. These include billiard and bowling balls, as well as skateboards. Passengers are instead required to have the items checked in before boarding.
According to the OTS’ official statement, the decision to include these items are based on studies it conducted about their potential use for unlawful activities. The office noted that unlawful elements are continuously devising new ways to conceal weapons. Officials added that they referred to applicable legislation like the Anti-Hijacking Law in formulating the new list.
Meanwhile, the office clarified that passengers can still carry e-cigarettes aboard, However, any form of lighters are still strictly prohibited either as hand-carried or checked-in luggage. Lithium-ion batteries and power banks are also required to be hand-carried according to an airline company’s policies.
Passengers can check the full list of prohibited items on the OTS website. The office also reminded flyers that they should check what items are allowed in their destination airports. This is to avoid confusion about items that can be checked in Philippine airports but are prohibited in others.
Tighter air transport security
The new regulation on hand-carried items comes in as Philippine airports increase their security measures. In an interview with the Philippine Information Agency, Bureau of Immigration Port Operations Division head Grifton Medina said they are in the process of installing e-gate terminals at NAIA’s departure area. These e-gates allow for faster passenger processing while still maintaining stringent security checks. He added that new high-definition cameras will also be installed in other airports.
Medina also said they are continuously working with international air security agencies. He noted that representatives from OpenGov Asia routinely monitor the improvements they put in place. OpenGove Asia is a Singapore-based online platform that distributes security information between governments.
The air transport official also proudly said that the Philippines is the only country ASEAN country given Tier 1 status for four consecutive years now. Tier 1 is the highest recognition given by the US Department of State for effective border security.