Help ID this vac? line off the firewall?

[kevinkay]

I was working under the intake manifold changing the duel temp sensor (drivers side) and either pulled out or stumbled on this loose line. I think I found where it it belongs by feel and lowering my iPhone down to take a photo. What I found was a frayed 2" long hose with what looks like a metal restricter in the center. I taped it up and got it back together but would like to replace this tube section but have NO CLUE as to what it is and what component to look under.
the first photo is the end where it comes out of the firewall between the 2 heater hoses.
second photo is where it attaches under the intake manifold (back of the engine) and 2 of the ports on this component have what seem to be plugs.
I have a 3.0i
THANKS!