Philippines - Handling of postal items tagged as containing dangerous goods

The designated operator of the Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost), wishes to inform Union member countries and their designated operators that it has observed a growing number of postal items being rejected by partner airlines owing to tagging as containing dangerous goods in accordance with the definition provided in article 19.3.1 of the Convention. To address this recurring issue and ensure full compliance with applicable national and international rules and regulations – including article 19-008 of the Convention Regulations – and to maintain secure, compliant, and minimally disrupted postal operations, PHLPost is implementing the following measures with immediate effect: 1. Opening of tagged postal items Each postal item identified or tagged as potentially containing dangerous goods will be opened and inspected by authorized PHLPost personnel. 2. Presentation to airlines After inspection, the opened and repacked item will be presented directly to the airline concerned for its assessment and possible acceptance for air conveyance. 3. Alternative conveyance via surface Should the airline decline to accept the item for air transport owing to safety or policy considerations, the item will be dispatched by surface as the default alternative. 4. Prohibited items In accordance with article 19.1.3 of the UPU Convention, details of goods subject to prohibitions and restrictions in the Philippines can be found in the UPU Prohibitions Compendium (prohibitions.ptc.post) and in the country-specific list of prohibitions (www.upu.int/en/ Postal-Solutions/Programmes-Services/Postal-Supply-Chain/Customs). If such items are received, they will be deemed wrongly admitted under Convention article 19.1.1 and will be treated in accordance with national legislation. This operational adjustment is being implemented to enhance compliance with international air transport safety standards while maintaining uninterrupted postal service. PHLPost remains committed to working closely with all stakeholders to ensure adherence to postal and transport regulations. PHLPost thanks all Union member countries and their designated operators for their understanding.