Passenger Armed With Knife at Iloilo Airport Shot
A 54-year-old passenger was shot in the chest at Iloilo International Airport in Cabatuan, Iloilo, on Wednesday afternoon after being found carrying a knife. The incident occurred around 4:44 p.m. in the pre-departure security screening area.
According to the Office for Transportation Security (OTS), a security officer detected a prohibited item in the passenger’s bag and requested a manual inspection, following standard security procedures. The passenger allegedly grabbed the bag from the X-ray machine and attempted to flee the screening area. While escaping, he reportedly brandished a knife, prompting security personnel and responding Philippine National Police officers to open fire, striking him in the chest.
The passenger was immediately taken to Western Visayas Sanitarium Hospital and later transferred to Western Visayas Medical Center for further treatment.
The OTS confirmed that the incident is under investigation in coordination with airport authorities and local police. Officials are reviewing the events leading up to the shooting to determine the appropriate course of action and to assess security protocols. No additional injuries were reported.
Meanwhile, airports strictly prohibit items that may pose a threat to passengers, crew, or aircraft. These include sharp objects like knives, box cutters, scissors, and razor blades; firearms, ammunition, and explosives; flammable items such as lighters, fireworks, and gas canisters; chemical or toxic substances, including bleach, strong acids, and pepper spray; sporting goods that could be used as weapons, such as baseball bats, golf clubs, and hockey sticks; and certain tools like hammers, drills, or saws. Liquids, gels, and aerosols are limited to containers of 100 milliliters or less and must fit in a clear, resealable bag. Any item that can cause injury or damage is considered prohibited, and passengers are required to declare or surrender such items during security screening.