DAVAO CITY — A 50-year-old Filipino passenger was arrested at Francisco Bangoy International Airport after authorities discovered he was using falsified identification documents, the Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group (PNP-AVSEGROUP) reported.
The arrest, which took place on April 28, 2026, stemmed from irregularities detected during the check-in process. Airline personnel flagged inconsistencies in the passenger’s presented Barangay Identification Card and Birth Certificate, prompting further verification.
Authorities coordinated with the Philippine Statistics Authority, which confirmed that the submitted birth certificate had been tampered with. Additional verification with the concerned barangay office revealed that the Residence Identification Card presented was legitimately issued—but under the name of the suspect’s son and duly signed by the area’s Punong Barangay.
During questioning, the suspect admitted that he used his son’s identification card and replaced the original photograph with his own in an apparent attempt to pass off the document as his.
The individual was subsequently arrested for violation of Article 172 of the Revised Penal Code, which penalizes falsification by private individuals and the use of falsified documents. He was taken into custody and brought to the Davao International Airport Police Station, where he was informed of the charges against him and apprised of his constitutional rights.
He is set to undergo a medical examination at the Southern Philippines Medical Center, while authorities prepare the necessary documentation for the filing of formal charges.
PBGen Dionisio B Bartolome Jr, Director of the PNP-AVSEGROUP, emphasized the significance of strict airport security protocols in preventing such incidents.
“This arrest underscores the importance of vigilant scrutiny at our airports in preventing the use of falsified documents and ensuring that our aviation gateways remain secure and lawful,” Bartolome said.
The PNP Aviation Security Group reiterated its commitment to maintaining the integrity of airport operations and warned the public against engaging in fraudulent activities, noting that violators will face the full force of the law.