Honest Airport Screeners at Bohol-Panglao International Return Passenger's Smartphone and Personal Items — OTS Chief Says Integrity Is Non-Negotiable
In a country where stories of lost items at airports don't always have happy endings, here's one that does. Security Screening Officer Jessie Quintia at the Bohol-Panglao International Airport found a smartphone and personal items left behind by a passenger — and immediately reported it to his supervisor instead of pocketing them.
Checkpoint Supervisor Maryjoy Villarin then requested an announcement to locate the owner. Within minutes, a passenger came forward claiming the items. Following standard verification procedures — including unlocking the device to confirm ownership — the items were promptly returned. Everything by the book, as it should be.
The Office for Transportation Security (OTS) publicly lauded Quintia and the team for "demonstrating honesty and integrity" in the performance of their duties. It's a small moment, but in a world where trust in government institutions is constantly tested, these acts of basic decency matter more than people realize.
OTS Administrator Undersecretary Gilberto DC Cruz said honesty isn't just a professional duty but a fundamental value that defines public service. "Kahit gaano pa kaliit na bagay ang ating naisasauli, malaking bagay ito sa pagbuo ng tiwala ng publiko sa ating ahensya," he said — emphasizing that screeners aren't just there for security, but to maintain passenger confidence.
It's the kind of feel-good story that restores a little faith in humanity. Hindi lahat ng nawawala sa airport, nawawala forever. Sometimes, it lands in the hands of the right person — and gets returned the way it should be. Kudos to the OTS team in Bohol. 👏
Source: GMA News
