Manila: The Office for Transportation Security (OTS) would like to remind the public that guns or even parts of firearms without proper documents are prohibited at Philippine airports. "We would like to remind travelers, especially licensed gun owners, that they should bring (their documents) if they would like to transport their guns," OTS Administrator Gilberto Cruz told the Philippine News Agency on Wednesday.

According to Philippines News Agency, the required documents include the license to own and possess firearms (LTOPF), firearm registration (FAR) card, and either a permit to transport (PTT) or a permit to carry outside residence (PTCFOR) from the Philippine National Police. Cruz emphasized, "Don't attempt to conceal prohibited items, because you will be questioned at the security screening checkpoint," Cruz said in Filipino.

His remark came as the OTS intercepted a firearm component (lower receiver) from a passenger at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 2 on Tuesday. A suspicious image appeared on the X-ray monitor. According to the OTS, the passenger was denied boarding and was subjected to further questioning due to his failure to present an appropriate license and permit.

Cruz highlighted that under the law, the illegal possession of a major part of a small firearm is punishable by a prison sentence of six years and one day to eight years. "We highly encourage passengers to refer to the OTS website and social media platforms to avoid hassle at the checkpoints," he said.