The Office for Transportation Security (OTS), in partnership with the Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group (PNP AVSEGROUP), has begun piloting a new non-lethal containment tool at airport security screening checkpoints nationwide.

The initiative was prompted by a recent incident at the Iloilo International Airport involving a knife-wielding disruptive passenger. To address such threats while minimizing harm, OTS and PNP AVSEGROUP conducted a live demonstration of the device on Monday, March 2, at the PNP AVSEGROUP Headquarters.

The tool, inspired by Japan’s “Sasumata,” features an open U-shaped end that allows security personnel to restrain individuals from a safe distance.

Unlike firearms or other lethal weapons, it is designed solely for containment, reducing the risk of serious injury or death while giving authorities control over potentially dangerous situations.

OTS Administrator Undersecretary Gilberto Cruz explained that deployment is limited to defensive scenarios where immediate threats exist.

Personnel will receive specialized training and scenario-based exercises to ensure their use is proportionate, accountable, and consistent with the principles of necessity and reasonable force.

This effort reflects a collaborative push by OTS and PNP AVSEGROUP to strengthen aviation security while protecting the rights, safety, and welfare of passengers, airport personnel, and law enforcement officers, in line with directives from President Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos Jr.