PAL probes WCOPA baggage complaint; CCTV video shows no irregularities

“PAL Central Baggage Services and Security departments are currently investigating the incident, which was made known by way of social media complaint-post,” she said. (Photo: Philippine Airlines/Facebook)

MANILA — Flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) is investigating the baggage complaint of some delegates of the World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA) team, its spokesperson Cielo Villaluna told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) over the weekend.

“PAL Central Baggage Services and Security departments are currently investigating the incident, which was made known by way of social media complaint-post,” she said.

The WCOPA arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) via a PAL flight last July 25. A singer then posted on his social media account that many of the team members’ belongings, particularly “pasalubong”, were missing.

The post also claimed that the locks of some of the members’ baggage were broken, and blamed airport personnel for the incident.

“Philippine Airlines is taking seriously the luggage concerns raised by several delegates of the Philippine WCOPA team,” Villaluna said.

She said the airline assures all concerned that it is taking the necessary actions to establish the facts, so it can take the next steps needed.

“PAL is working closely with service providers and airport authorities with the end goal of getting to the bottom of the matter,” she said, adding that PAL has reached out to the complainant, who represents the group and that communication is ongoing.

Meanwhile, Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) General Manager Ed Monreal hosted a meeting with representatives from WCOPA team, PAL, and Sky Logistics, an airport service provider.

During the meeting, attendees were shown the full CCTV footage of the baggage handling areas, where pieces of baggage from flight PR103 were unloaded, subjected to Customs x-ray inspection, and then loaded on conveyor belts for transport to the baggage claim carousels at the NAIA arrival area.

The CCTV video showed no irregularities or illegal activities.

The airlines are responsible for handling the passengers’ baggage. Monreal is encouraging passengers to immediately contact the airline should there be a problem with their baggage.

He also noted that passengers may also reach the MIAA if they have concerns so that prompt action can be taken.