The tanim-bala, or bullet-planting scam, at Philippine airports, is back, reflecting the nation’s systemic corruption and inability to maintain real reforms. Passengers, most of whom are overseas Filipino workers struggling to remit money to their families, are again subjected to extortion and public humiliation, demanding prompt government action.
Tanim-bala is no minor crime; it is a deliberate act of extortion on the most vulnerable. Under the pretext of implementing airport security, merciless officers pack bullets into unsuspecting passengers’ bags. The victims are threatened with arrest if they do not pay outrageous bribes to appease the staged crime. Such acts not only shame the country’s reputation worldwide but also destroy the integrity of its air security measures.
It is ironic that this extortion, which was infamous under the Aquino regime, has resurfaced in the news. The Duterte regime had almost eliminated it by imposing stern measures and relentless prosecution. It appears that the recent incidence of tanim-bala confirms that the watchfulness of the present regime has been lax. It is a shining example of poor mechanisms for enforcement and a lack of regular vigilance.
The authorities must act decisively to disband such illegal organizations within the security of airports. It requires exhaustive investigations, prosecution of the culprits, and transparent oversight mechanisms. Installing more surveillance cameras, encouraging more responsibility among the staff members, and employing independent monitors can make traveling safer and fairer for all. Legal assistance also needs to be provided to the victims to prevent further exploitation.
The fight against tanim-bala is a function of political will and firm determination to reform. Filipinos are worthy of an airport system that prioritizes safety and fairness and not one that incubates corruption. The government needs to prove that it is on the side of its people, especially the hardworking overseas workers, by ensuring no traveler fears the threat of this nasty extortion racket anymore.
