The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) said it takes great pride in acknowledging the exemplary honesty and integrity demonstrated by an airport employee at General Santos Airport. Mr. Edgardo Roy Butohan, a concession porter at the airport, who discovered a lost black Nike bag at the Passenger Terminal Building (PTB) Departure Entrance on June 3, 2023.
CAAP spokesman Eric Apolonio said the bag, which belonged to OFW Noraima Impal, who arrived from a PAL flight from Manila, contained valuable items including a laptop and an astounding amount of 27 pieces of $100 bills, equivalent to P151,436.25. Impal had inadvertently left her bag behind at a seat near the PTB entrance while awaiting for her relative’s arrival.
Butohan, a diligent and conscientious airport porter, promptly noticed the abandoned bag and immediately reported the discovery to the appropriate authorities. His quick actions and honesty played a crucial role in ensuring the safe retrieval of Ms. Impal’s belongings.
“Thanks to the collaborative efforts of Butohan, the airport staff, and the Security Unit of General Santos Airport, Ms. Impal was able to reclaim her possessions at the airport’s CAAP Security and Intelligence Service (CSIS) office. It is worth noting that upon inspection, all the contents of the bag were found to be intact and complete, reflecting the commendable integrity displayed by Mr. Butohan,” said Apolonio.
“CAAP would like to extend its heartfelt appreciation to Mr. Edgardo Roy Butohan for exemplifying the highest standards of professionalism, honesty, and integrity. His remarkable act serves as an inspiration and reminder to all airport personnel and the aviation community at large, that honesty and upholding ethical values remain paramount in the service we provide,” remarked CAAP Director General Captain Manuel Antonio Tamayo.
CAAP also extends its gratitude to the airport staff and the CSIS for their prompt assistance in ensuring the safe return of Ms. Impal’s belongings, which was returned to her the following day on June 4, 2023, said Tamayo..
CAAP remains steadfast in its commitment to maintaining a culture of honesty, transparency, and professionalism within the Philippine aviation industry. Airport employees and stakeholders are enjoined to follow the shining example set by Mr. Butohan, as the aviation community collectively strives to provide exceptional service to passengers and uphold the highest ethical standards, he added.
