NAIA steps up drive vs ‘kalabit pahingi’

MANILA, Philippines - Security officers at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport have intensified efforts to stop the operations of the so-called “kalabit pahingi” group at the NAIA.

Assistant general manager for security and emergency services Vicente Guerzon said members of the group prey on travelers and well-wishers in the terminal parking lots, greeters’ area and roads leading to the airport.

Guerzon said a team from the Light Reaction Section of the Airport Police Department rounded up a total of 85 individuals soliciting money from travelers since June 2.

Those apprehended were taken to the APD for verification and recording.

A member of the group identified as Maricel de la Cruz has undergone inquest after she kicked, badmouthed, and spat on the face of an airport security guard who refused her entry to the NAIA parking lot.

The arrested minors were turned over to the Department of Social Welfare and Development.

The campaign aims to address complaints from airport users who have been victims of solicitation techniques and “quick click” modus operandi.