Without acknowledging the existence of “tanim bala” modus operandi operating at Ninoy Aquino International Airport, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has issued tips for air transport passengers to avoid falling prey to the syndicate.
- Passengers should strictly monitor all luggage and never allow strangers to handle them.
- All zippers, pouches and pockets of luggage must be closed, locked and sealed.
- When passing through airport security X-ray and walk-thru metal detectors, passengers should never lose sight of their respective luggage.
- After bags passed through X-ray, passengers should immediately retrieve their bags as they exit the X-ray machine.
- Passengers should also refrain from accepting any luggage or items from strangers.
“Security is everyone’s concern so we must all be vigilant for the protection of the riding passengers,” CAAP spokesperson Eric Apolonio said.
CAAP is currently managing 84 provincial airports, 42 of which are involved in commercial operations. It has already allotted funds for additional and upgraded cameras to all CAAP-managed airport.
The OTS recently came under fire after some its personnel were accused of engaging in the so-called ”tanim bala” modus. Some of its personnel were also accused of stealing the bag of an overseas Filipino worker.
In addition, passengers who are suspected of bringing in bullet inside their luggage should be careful of their actions and do the following:
- In case an officer asks you to open the luggage, do not do so unless you have a credible witness such as a police officer or a lawyer who can defend you while you are at the airport and accused of carrying a bullet. Never open the luggage by yourself.
- Once a witness is available, ask officers to pick out the bullet. Never touch it with bare hands as your finger print may reflect on the discovered ammunition and used against you in court.
- Once the bullet you never brought gets “discovered” challenge the screening officer to do a fingerprint analysis.
- In case officers cannot prove your link to the bullet, seek compensation for the delay or missed flight, and other rights you have as an air passenger.