Who brings a yearbook when traveling?

Let's talk about our international airport, the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). According to the 2023 World Airport Awards, Changi Airport in Singapore was voted "best airport" of the year. This is unsurprising because anyone who has been to Singapore can see its beauty. This was followed by the airports of developed, rich countries. Not surprising either. So where is NAIA on this list? It's sad that it didn't even make it into the Top 100. It didn't even make it into Asia's Top 10 airports.

Naturally, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) cited many reasons why NAIA is not on the list. But you can see why if you are a traveler, whether from the Philippines or another country. And now, there is a controversy regarding the immigration process at the airport.

The video of a woman who was about to leave for Israel when the immigration officer interrogated her went viral. She was sent to a separate office to be interviewed further. The passenger wondered about questions that seemed to have nothing to do with his journey, such as whether her parents were separated or still together. And she was even more surprised when she was asked if she was carrying her yearbook. Who brings their yearbook when leaving the country? Because of the immigration officer's grilling, she missed her flight and was forced to re-book her ticket where she spent thousands.

The reaction was swift on social media where the Bureau of Immigration (BI) was heavily criticized until the BI issued an apology to the passenger for the intense grilling she experienced. The BI has also relieved the said officer and will face an investigation. But the BI also defended such screening of passengers, particularly those traveling alone due to the problem of human trafficking where many become victims. But it swiftly clarified there is no need to bring a yearbook or diploma when leaving the country. There were also discussions on social media that she was subjected to such questioning because she did not have a return ticket, hotel reservation, and only a small amount of money on hand.

We will have to wait for the outcome of the investigation into this incident. But for now, the advice to all travelers, especially solo travelers, is to have all pertinent documents ready. If you travel often, bring old passports to prove that you are a seasoned traveler. Some have commented on social media that they should also dress properly when leaving the country. But I see some foreigners who seem to be dressed as if they were lounging on their porches. I also believe the BI should reimburse the passenger for the re-booking of her flight. She was not at fault and yet she shelled out money to continue her plans. I’m sure word of this incident spread abroad; NAIA’s image and standing will be further tarnished.