LIST: Items permitted inside MRT-3

MANILA, Philippines — The management of Metro Rail Transit-3 released a list of liquids and other items allowed inside its train following criticisms over the ban on bottled drinks.

In a statement, the MRT-3 management asked for a “deeper understanding” from commuters as it implements its new security measures.

The following items are permitted inside MRT-3 upon validation and approval of security personnel and police officers in stations:

The MRT-3 management explained that bottled drinks, water and any liquid substance are still banned as these can be mixed to form a liquid bomb.

It noted that nitroglycerin—composed of carbon, nitrogen, hydrogen and oxygen—is “extremely dangerous and volatile” and can be hidden in seemingly harmless bottles.

“Nitroglycerin is oily and clear, so if it is poured in an opaque lotion bottle, no one would know what is inside. Because it is clear and oily, nitroglycerin would be easy to conceal in lotion or shampoo bottles. Nitroglycerin’s inherent instability would make this bottle very dangerous for you to carry around,” the MRT-3 management said.

It added the items that have been held the past few days would be returned upon proper verification through presentation of appropriate identification to station supervisors. — Gaea Katreena Cabico