Tugade: Access pass holders not exempt from security checks in airport premises

(Eagle News)–Access pass holders are not exempted from following protocols being implemented in airport premises, Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade said on Wednesday, Oct. 2.

Tugade made the statement after ACTS-OFW Rep. Aniceto Bertiz was caught on video refusing to undergo a security check at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, citing his being an access pass holder.

According to Tugade, “all of us must follow and respect protocols,” which are “set to safeguard security and order in our transportation hubs.”

Manila International Airport Authority general manager Ed Monreal agreed.

General Manager Ed Monreal also said that having an access pass did not mean legislators and government officials could evade airport security procedures.

“Kami ang nag-issue ng ID. Ang ID po ay isang courtesy sa ating mga legislators o government agency officials. It is not a privilege to circumvent the security protocol,” he said.