NAIA security personnel no longer allowed to touch passports

Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) security personnel are now prohibited from touching passengers' passports during terminal entry and security verification to prevent damage.

Passengers will be asked to show their valid ID or travel document by holding it up themselves at airport entrances.

This policy change follows a recent incident where a passenger was denied boarding by Cebu Pacific due to a small tear in his passport, despite conflicting opinions from other airport staff.

Cebu Pacific defended their staff's action, citing that foreign immigration authorities may deny entry to passengers with even minor tears in their travel documents.

Indonesian immigration authorities reportedly confirmed that the passenger could be denied entry due to his damaged passport.

Passport inspection will now be handled by airline staff at check-in counters, Immigration officers, and airline personnel at boarding gates.

NAIA is implementing this new protocol as a proactive measure and is working with stakeholders to enhance procedures.

MIAA General Manager Eric Ines stated it is better that fewer people touch passports to avoid blaming staff.