Koreans go into rampage at airport

The new Centennial Terminal II of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport was thrown into uproar yesterday when a group of South Koreans bound for Inchon went into a rampage at the boarding gate, creating pandemonium among hundreds of departing passengers.

Timely arrival of airport security prevented a stampede of passengers who were caught by the sudden outburst of temper of some 120 Koreans who were incensed by the delay of their flight by five hours.

PAL flight No. 468 was scheduled to depart Manila at 1:20 p.m. for Inchon, but due to some technical problems, the flight was reset to 6 p.m. The delay of five hours angered the Koreans.

The Koreans also barred Hong Kong-bound passengers from boarding their flight, and also demanded that because of the delay in their flight, they had to be served meals by PAL, and that once they arrived in Inchon, they be given free transportation.

During the stand-off, a scuffle ensured between an airport policeman identified as Cpl. Robert Cachuela and an unidentified Korean passenger who tried to grab his sidearm. Cochuela, who managed to free himself from the Korean, called for reinforcements.

The terminal was soon swarming with security forces from various government law enforcement units who were able to contain the situation. The Koreans were placed in a guarded holding room until they could board their plane for Korea.

Miguel Hinlo, assistant general manager, for security at the NAIA, said that he did not leave the scene of the incident until the Koreans had left. "I didn’t want to take any chances," he added.

PAL assured the Koreans that it would give in to the demands of the Koreans, who came into the country two weeks ago as tourists.

Immigration authorities at the NAIA said the incident took place after the Koreans had already cleared themselves at the immigration counters for departure.