MANILA, Philippines (Philippines News Agency)- After recently intercepting an American passenger carrying a gun, airport authorities on Wednesday reminded passengers anew to seek clearances to transport guns and ammunition when traveling by air.
This reminder comes after the Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group apprehended American citizen James Hill Jr. for carrying a Ruger P85 9mm caliber firearm, 57 pieces of ammunition and two magazines for the gun.
PNP-Avsegroup said that these were intercepted over the weekend at the initial screening checkpoint at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1.
Possession of guns and ammunition without a permit is a violation of R.A. 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.
Guam-bound Hill admitted to owning the items, saying that these were given to him by relatives in the Philippines and he simply wanted to bring them home.
He further said that he sought advice from his airline and was only told to place the firearm in its safety case but was not told that he would need to get travel documents for them.
After interception, Avsegroup had Hill undergo further investigation according to protocol.
Avsegroup urged passengers who want to transport guns to coordinate with the PNP Firearms and Explosives Office, which issues permits and coordinates with airport police so they can accompany passengers through the clearance and check in.
MIAA General Manager Jose Angel Honrado said that policies for the transport of firearms and ammunition differ internationally and among air carriers.
“In the Philippines, the PNP is strict when it comes to checking clearances for the transport of such items whether in small quantities or large shipments,” Honrado said.
“Regardless of the quantity or purpose of transport, the public is advised to secure documents with the police prior to the date of departure,” he added.