Agricultural products arriving from abroad can pose a health risk if handled improperly. For this reason, there are rules worldwide aimed at regulating the transport of such items and preventing the spread of pests in agriculture or even diseases in the population. In connection with this, a group of ten Philippine Airlines crew members were stopped at the airport.
The crew arrived in Manila, the capital of the Philippines, from a flight from the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, taking with them a total of 40 kg of onions, the origin of which was unknown to the authorities and therefore their entry into the country was banned.
Check out the best Philippine Airlines (PAL) flight attendants for fresh fruits, lemon, strawberries, and blueberries. Anong kaso illegal possession of golden onions? pic.twitter.com/dwAhKrv1Hq
— Eden💄 (@EDENAGU43721338) January 14, 2023
Although penalties for this type of situation are low in most parts of the world, it is worth noting that those involved are flight attendants who are very familiar with import regulations. As an immediate result, the professionals eventually lost their jobs and began becoming part of an internal investigation into the company.
speak with Manilla BulletinPhilippine Airlines spokeswoman Cielo Villaluna condemned the crew’s actions, noting that the airline was already investigating: “Philippine Airlines does not condone any violation of customs regulations. Depending on the outcome of the investigation, we will take appropriate disciplinary action. We are fully cooperating with the customs authorities in this matter. We reiterate to all our employees the need to strictly comply with customs regulations at all times.”
The local press does not explain why the crew decided to buy foreign onions. In any case, he mentions that they are part of the traditional cuisine in the Philippines and this ingredient is highly valued.
Check out the best Philippine Airlines (PAL) flight attendants for fresh fruits, lemon, strawberries, and blueberries. Anong kaso illegal possession of golden onions? pic.twitter.com/dwAhKrv1Hq
— Eden💄 (@EDENAGU43721338) January 14, 2023