The Office for Transportation Security (OTS) reminds the traveling public to strictly adhere to security regulations after its Security Screening Officers (SSOs) intercepted empty ammunition shells from a passenger at Calbayog Airport.
On November 18, 2025, SSOs at the final screening checkpoint of Calbayog Airport discovered twenty-eight pieces of empty ammunition shells concealed within a stitched leather cloth inside the baggage of a passenger bound for Cebu via Cebu Pacific flight DG 6547.
The discovery was made during a routine security check when SSO Maricel Buban, the X-ray operator, noticed suspicious images resembling ammunition on the monitor. Following protocol, SSO Buban alerted baggage inspector SSO Raymart Manota, who conducted a manual inspection in the presence of the passenger, the airline representative, and the Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group (PNP AVSEGROUP).
The passenger reportedly claimed the empty shells were intended to be used as an ‘amulet’ or protective charm. However, ammunition, live or spent, remains a prohibited item in both carry-on and checked baggage under aviation security regulations.
The intercepted items were properly documented and turned over to the PNP AVSEGROUP for appropriate disposition. The passenger was subsequently profiled by the PNP and allowed to continue their journey after the prohibited items were confiscated.
OTS Administrator Undersecretary Gilberto DC Cruz took the opportunity to reiterate the agency’s commitment to safety and the necessity of passenger cooperation.
“I want to stress how important it is for travelers to check for items that are prohibited, and those that are allowed in checked baggage,” Undersecretary Cruz stated. “By knowing this basic information, you can lessen the stress as you travel, and at the same time, processing time at our security screening checkpoint can be lessened. Our SSOs are vigilant, and we will not compromise security for any reason, including the claim that these items are for ‘spiritual’ purposes. Passengers must be aware that bringing ammunition, whether live or empty, is strictly prohibited in airports.”
The OTS continues to urge all passengers to review the list of prohibited items before proceeding to the airport to ensure a seamless and hassle-free travel experience.
