I Had to Throw My Umbrella Away in Cebu - Travelogue
Image by Yifei Chen.
This happened on the last day in Cebu. We went to the airport to check-in and paid for our tourist tax. We happily went to departure gates to passed through the necessary security checks. This was where the incident occurred.
I had flown to several countries. I had a good understanding of what I could be packed in my hand-carry baggage and checked-in luggage. One thing for sure is - I didn't know I could not have an umbrella in my hand-carry luggage. You were required to check-in umbrellas, including folded umbrellas. This was the first time that I ever heard of such regulation. I was beyond shocked!
Well... The next action that I took was I took out my phone to start to search if such regulation is valid. Apparently, it was true. Umbrellas were considered as sharp objects. At that point in time, I could think of so many more things that are considered as sharp objects but were not banned. I am sure you could sense my angst. I reluctantly had to throw away my umbrella. There were a lot of umbrellas in the bin. This is the first time I had seen more umbrellas than bottled water in the container at the airport security. It was a total waste. There could be a separate bin for umbrellas and have them all donated to the needy families.
The good news is you may be able to bring your folded umbrella with you now. The Office of Transportation Security of the Department of Transportation (Philippines) would be easing the prohibition on bringing folded umbrellas inside aeroplanes. (Source) How I wished this news came in 3 months earlier. Nevertheless, I would highly encourage you to check the regulation before your trip.
Lesson learnt; just checked in your folded umbrella or bring a poncho instead.
x, Esther
