OTS probing ‘unprofessional’ screening of K-pop stars at NAIA

MANILA, Philippines — The Office for Transportation Security (OTS) is investigating an incident wherein airport security screening officers at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport were “exhibiting unprofessional behavior” during the security screening of a departing Korean pop group.

In a statement issued yesterday, the OTS said it is studying the video circulating on social media showing airport security screening officers allegedly exhibiting unprofessional behavior toward members of K-pop group ENHYPEN, as caught through “unwarranted filming.”

“The management is currently investigating the matter to determine the extent of violation committed based on existing rules and security screening protocols if any, and impose appropriate administrative sanctions, should it be necessary,” the OTS statement read.

“While we understand the excitement brought about by the presence of these Korean artists, we remind not only our personnel, but all airport users, that unauthorized filming at our security screening checkpoints is not allowed as a matter of policy,” it added.

The OTS said it will not tolerate unprofessional behavior toward the riding public.

The video showed some members of ENHYPEN being frisked by a female security screening officer.

OTS spokesperson Kim Marquez said that their procedure prescribes male-to-male and female-to-female screening.

But in certain instances, female screeners are allowed to screen male passengers, but this is mostly applicable to airports in the province where personnel complement is lacking.

“The Manila International Airport Authority may not be applicable since we have more personnel and that is now the subject of our investigation,” Marquez added.

“Filming in the security checkpoints is also not allowed per our policy. This may be considered as a security breach. From the video clip, we can already surmise some irregularity and lapses, not only of the one doing the screening, but also to their supervisors for allowing this to happen, and aggravated by not acting on the lapses and not submitting the required incident report,” she said. – Rudy Santos