CIAC resolves Korean complaint in 24 hours
MABALACAT CITY — The Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC), a subsidiary of the Bases Con version and Development Authority (BCDA), has resolved a complaint of a Korean national against Customs personnel that went viral over Facebook social media.
After learning about the issue, CIAC immediately conducted an investigation regarding the experience of Woo Seonkyung and her husband with Bureau of Customs (BOC) personnel and other crew at Clark airport last February 12.
CIAC authorities, led by Acting President Alex Cauguiran, reviewed the CCTV footages positioned at the final security screening area manned by the Office for Transportation Security (OTS). The video shows that no e-cigarette device was placed on the tray, contrary to what was stated in the Korean’s Facebook post.
An OTS staff could also be seen handing a watch to the couple immediately after she saw and picked up the item from the X-ray screening area.
The CIAC has also coordinated with the relatives of the couple in Zambales as to how the incident upon their arrival transpired.
In a media briefing, Cauguiran and Customs Port of Clark District Collector Maritess Martin showed the items brought by the couple. A branded bag and assorted cosmetics were valued by the Bureau of Customs (BOC) at US$677 or more than P10,000, the de minimis value taxable under the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.
The CIAC reiterates that it implements strict anti-pilferage measures at the airport covering all airline personnel, security service providers, and ground handling companies.
These include the use of body cameras, and the installation of additional CCTVs at the baggage conveyor area.
Passengers also have easy access to 24/ 7 assistance desks at the airport to ensure their travels are stress-free.
During the press briefing, Martin asked Cauguiran to install CCTV monitors inside the BOC office.
With this, Cauguiran immediately ordered for the installation of the cameras inside the BOC room.
Cauguiran also bared plans to hire a Korean interpreter in order to prevent similar incidents in the future.