‘Illegal’ private flights at NAIA alarms House solon
SURIGAO del Norte Representative and the House Committee on Dangerous Drugs Chairman Robert Ace Barbers has expressed grave concern as he called on the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) and the Bureau of Immigration (BI) on the incident involving a private plane that is allegedly used in “human trafficking.”
Barbers stressed that other than human trafficking, drug trafficking is likewise possible using the same “modus operandi.”
“Years ago, I have already warned and alerted these officials on the possibility of drug trafficking using private planes. Back then, I had unconfirmed reports of such activities. This might explain the abundance of supply even during the war on drugs. The accidental discovery of the latest illegal activity could be but the tip of the iceberg,” Barbers said.
“Heads must roll in this incident. This cannot take place innocently and without the knowledge of those who are tasked to implement strict controls in our airports and all other ports of entry and exit. My serious concern is the cargo in such instances. If human trafficking can take place, how much more with illegal drugs,” Barbers added.
“Once again, our security has been compromised, and the public salaried officials and employees are caught sleeping on their jobs. Those responsible should not be given the kid gloves treatment,” Barbers said.
