By Ma. Cristina Arayata

HONEST GUARD. Rhea Taysa, a security guard at the Laoag International Airport, turns over to authorities a bag containing cash equivalent to over PHP146,000 on Wednesday (March 19, 2025). The bag was apparently found on a gang chair at the arrival area and was returned to the owner on the same day. (Photo courtesy of CAAP)

MANILA – A lady guard at the Laoag International Airport (LIA) found a bag with cash equivalent to over PHP146,000 and surrendered it to authorities on Wednesday.

Rhea Taysa discovered the bag on a gang chair at the arrival area and turned over it to Security and Intelligence Service for verification and safekeeping, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) said.

The bag, which also contained a passport, identification cards, a driver’s license, and other valuables, belongs to a 79-year-old female US national.

It was returned to the owner on the same day, according to CAAP.

The owner expressed gratitude to Taysa and the airport personnel for their honesty.

CAAP added that its chief, Director General Raul Del Rosario, “also praised the airport staff for their unwavering commitment to integrity, professionalism, and public service.” (PNA)