MCIA expecting new x-ray machines

CEBU, Philippines - Officials at the Mactan Cebu International Airport welcomed the assurance of Customs Commissioner Rufin Biazon that the Bureau of Customs will prioritize the Mactan airport in the distribution of new x-ray machines.

The lack of x-ray machines at the Customs area is one the concerns raised by airport and customs officials here.

An x-ray machine usually lasts for 20 years, but the one at MCIAA, which is no longer functioning, is already 22 years old. The airport also has no x-ray machine for baggage that is hand-carried.

MCIAA General Manager Nigel Paul Villarete said x-ray machines would make it easier for customs and airport officials to monitor the possible entry of smuggled products, contraband and especially illegal drugs.

Mactan Customs Port Collector Paul Alcazaren cited the case of 24-year-old Asha Atieno Ogutu, the Kenyan national who was arrested at the airport for smuggling three kilos of shabu to Cebu last September. 

During his visit last week, Biazon promised that BOC will prioritize the purchase of x-ray machines using the initial P250 million from the national government. This can reportedly buy at least two machines. - THE FREEMAN