Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has mandated a comprehensive investigation into the alleged tanim-bala (bullet-planting) incident at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). This directive follows the circulation of a viral social media video that has revived concerns about the extortion scheme, as announced by Malaca±ang on Monday.
According to Philippines News Agency, during a press briefing, Claire Castro, the Presidential Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer, stated that Marcos has instructed the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to delve deeply into the incident that occurred on March 6 at Terminal 3 in Pasay City. Castro emphasized that such incidents must not recur and highlighted the President's firm stance against such practices.
The tanim-bala scheme, which came to light in 2015, involves accusations against airport security officials of planting bullets in travelers' luggage. These travelers are then pressured to pay bribes to avoid charges related to the illegal possession of ammunition.
Castro reiterated that the President would not condone such activities, particularly those targeting Filipino citizens or tourists. She assured that accountability would be enforced following the investigation.
In connection with the latest incident, DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon reported that three airport security screening officers have been terminated due to their alleged involvement. The incident involved a 69-year-old passenger who shared her experience on social media, detailing how she nearly missed her flight to Vietnam due to the alleged scheme.
The passenger recounted that personnel from the Office for Transportation Security (OTS), responsible for security and baggage screening at airports, approached her to inspect her handbag despite it having been cleared through security. The OTS personnel claimed they saw an anting-anting (amulet), yet no bullet was found during the inspection. Photographic and video evidence provided by the passenger showed the OTS personnel laughing during the incident while obscuring their nameplates.
