THE Bureau of Customs (BOC) denied any involvement in luggage-tag switching, saying it has no role in handling, managing, or applying luggage tags.
In a statement responding to online reports of alleged baggage tag switching, the agency said it has not received any confirmed cases of such incidents at Philippine airports in recent months.
It noted that the viral online reports are believed to be linked to luggage-tampering cases in other countries.
The BOC reiterated that its primary legal mandate is to enforce Customs laws and safeguard borders.
“While these reported incidents are not linked to local operations, the bureau remains attentive and continues to coordinate with relevant authorities to ensure the safety and security of all passengers,” the BOC said.
As an added layer of protection, travelers are encouraged to take simple precautions: taking photos of their luggage before check-in, using easily recognizable markers on their bags, and keeping track of their belongings throughout their journey.
“Some travelers may also consider using tracking devices for added peace of mind,” the BOC said.
