Cabin Air Filter tabs won't open
 

I have a 2009 RX350 and have looked high and low to find out how to turn the tabs in the glove box so I can get to the Cabin Air filter. The knobs are supposed to turn towards you and then wiggle out but they are stuck and we tried with pliers as well. I turned the key to Lock, opened the glove box and had the glove box door in various positions to attempt to get those knobs to move but am afraid I will break them off. I have never changed that cabin filter as I didn't know it was there so it hasn't been changed in at least 7 years. Is there a trick to this or am I stuck going to the dealer? Any help will be greatly appreciated! Thank you in advance.