Manila, Philippines – A man set to fly out to Doha, Qatar never made it past immigration at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 after airport officers discovered he had an active warrant for his arrest.
According to a statement from the PNP Aviation Security Group (AVSEGROUP), the passenger was flagged during routine departure processing when the Bureau of Immigration matched his records against a Watch List Order and an active Alias Warrant of Arrest.
How the Arrest Unfolded
The Bureau of Immigration quickly alerted the PNP Aviation Security Group–NAIA Police Station 1 after its system returned the hit. Officers then coordinated with immigration personnel, took the passenger into custody, and brought him to NAIA Police Station 1 for documentation and questioning.
Joint operatives from NAIA Police Station 1 and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) later served the Alias Warrant of Arrest. The document was issued by the Regional Trial Court, Branch 37, in Calamba City, Laguna, tied to a criminal case that carries no recommendation for bail.
Authorities said the man was read his constitutional rights in a language he understood. The arrest was recorded using an Alternative Recording Device, in line with proper procedure.
Suspect Denies Knowledge of the Case
During questioning, the passenger insisted he had no idea a case was pending against him. To back up his claim, he presented:
- A police clearance showing no derogatory record
- An NBI clearance with the same clean result
He also told officers that he no longer lived at the address listed in the warrant, though he admitted it was his former home. A separate check through the PNP E-Warrant System came back negative on his end.
Despite his explanations, the standing court warrant was enough for authorities to proceed with the arrest.
Official Statement
PBGEN Dionisio B. Bartolome, Jr., Director of the PNP AVSEGROUP, stressed that the operation reflects the group’s ongoing effort to keep the country’s main gateway secure.
“The PNP AVSEGROUP remains committed to strengthening airport security and ensuring that persons with outstanding warrants are brought before the proper authorities in accordance with the law,” he said.
What Happens Next
The arrested man is now in the custody of the CIDG, which will handle his case for proper disposition. The incident serves as a reminder to departing Filipinos that unresolved legal matters can surface at immigration checks, even when personal clearances appear clean.