A passenger was barred from boarding his flight to Manila after authorities at Tacloban City’s Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport discovered a firearm replica in his possession.
The Aviation Security Group (AVSEGROUP) said that the man, who was not identified, brought a Heckler & Koch MP5 replica with a magazine, despite not having a permit or authorization.
The banned item was found inside his baggage after it underwent routine x-ray scanning at Tacloban Airport on Saturday, May 17.
AVSEGROUP stated that the Commission on Election (Comelec) gun ban will remain in effect until June 12, 2025.
The ban restricts the carrying of firearms, deadly weapons, replicas, and toy guns during this time.
The passenger violated R.A. No. 10591, or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, in relation to Comelec Resolution No. 11067.
The Office for Transportation Security of the Department of Transportation has included toy guns and replicas in its list of prohibited items on board international and domestic flights.
The police have reminded air travelers that even outside the Comelec gun ban period, possession of such items may still result in being offloaded from the plane or getting arrested.
AVSEGROUP Director P/BGen. Christopher Abecia said that their responsibility includes enforcing security measures to guarantee the safety of all passengers and flight across the country.
"We urge the public to always check their baggage for prohibited items before traveling to avoid inconvenience," Abecia said.
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