Manila, Philippines — June 14, 2024 — The Senate Committee on Public Services has initiated an investigation following a disturbing incident at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 (NAIA 3), where a Vietnamese woman was observed walking naked in the departure area. The incident, which occurred on June 8, 2024, has prompted questions about the effectiveness of airport security protocols and the training of personnel.
Senator Raffy Tulfo, the newly appointed chairman of the Committee on Public Services, emphasized the need to scrutinize the actions of airport security during the incident. “It was noticeable in the video that the airport security seemed surprised and unsure of what to do in such a situation,” Tulfo stated. “The security failed to stop the woman from continuing to walk towards the boarding gate, causing a commotion at the airport.”
The woman, identified as a resident of Binh Minh, Vietnam, was scheduled to leave for Ho Chi Minh City. However, she was offloaded after an immigration officer noticed she had a mental disorder and was an overstaying tourist who needed to pay a fine. Despite being allowed to leave the country later that day after an examination at the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) Medical Clinic, the incident has raised significant concerns.
Tulfo has filed a Senate resolution to investigate the handling of security protocols at NAIA, particularly the response to such unexpected situations. “Does the airport security personnel have adequate training to handle situations like this?” Tulfo asked. He underscored the necessity of identifying the roles and responsibilities of the Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group, Manila International Airport Authority, Office for Transportation Security, and other relevant agencies to prevent future occurrences and avoid a blame game.
The Senate investigation will seek testimony from NAIA officials, security personnel, and witnesses to understand the sequence of events and the adequacy of the current security measures. “It is now time to have a better system and security protocols to avoid a repeat of a similar incident,” Tulfo added.
Initial reports suggest the woman was suffering from a mental health crisis. Dr. Maria Rosario Vergeire, spokesperson for the Department of Health, highlighted the importance of mental health awareness and support in public spaces. “This incident underscores the need for mental health resources, especially in high-stress environments like airports,” Vergeire said.
In response, NAIA management has expressed their commitment to cooperating fully with the Senate investigation. They assured the public that steps are being taken to review and enhance security protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The incident has ignited widespread discussion on social media, with many advocating for improved mental health support and robust security measures at the country’s busiest airport. As the Senate investigation proceeds, the nation awaits answers and assurances that such a situation will not recur.
