Palau's President Tommy Remengesau says he expected to be shown some sensitivity rather than being frisked by Continental Airlines staff in the Philippines this week.
President Remengesau ended his official state visit to the Philippines with an embarrassing diplomatic situation after Continental Airlines security personnel at the Manila airport refused to allow him to board his flight without undergoing a physical body search.
Pacific magazine quotes President Remengesau saying he expected that the airline would honor internationally recognized protocols regarding Heads of State and show some sensitivity to the Pacific culture.
He said he understands the security concerns that airlines face and support their efforts to keep flying safe.
But he believes there is some room for the exercise of common sense in all decisions.
Continental Airlines said in a statement their Manila employees explained the security requirements of the US in detail but the President would not comply with the security procedures and was therefore denied boarding.
