Mactan Airport Implements Tighter Security for APEC Summit

Lapu-Lapu City (PNA) — The Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) in Lapu-Lapu City will implement tighter security for the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit Senior Ministers’ Meeting later this year.

The APEC Senior Ministers’ meetings from August to October this year will be participated in by some 3,200 delegates, who are high-ranking Philippine and Asia-Pacific officials.

Chief Superintendent Pablo Francisco Balagtas, Aviation Security Group (ASG) director, asked the public to bear with the strict inspection that will be conducted by ASG 7.

Balagtas also advised passengers passing through the airport not to bring any contraband.

Balagtas gave awards to ASG 7 personnel who arrested arrested a Taiwanese national who brought guns while checking in at MCIA last month.

Those recognized were Chief Insp. Nestor Dumanew, Insp. Marvin Bolic, PO3 Romy Adorador, PO2 Sofronio Pino and PO1 Reybert Abawan.

They caught Yuan He Chao, 27, for allegedly carrying a .9mm pistol, .22 revolver and magazines at the domestic departure area.

Chao arrived at the airport at past 3 p.m. last May 29 to catch an airplane for Manila.

When his luggage went through the X-ray machine for inspection, the guns were noticed by the security screening officer, leading to his arrest. (PNA) LAP/EB/EDS