Bullet-Planting Scam Resurfaces at NAIA?

By Bing Jabadan – TheNationweek.com  

April 11, 2025

MANILA, Philippines – A wave of anxiety has hit returning overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) as the notorious “tanim-bala” (bullet-planting) scam resurfaces at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

The practice, which involves planting bullet casings in luggage to extort bribes, has once again cast a shadow over operations at the airport, raising concerns about the safety of the “modern-day heroes.”

“The resurgence of the scam has sparked widespread fear among OFWs, who are already facing the emotional and logistical challenges of returning home,” a traveler was quoted as saying.

A plea on social media shared by the group Buhay OFW captured the collective anxiety: “Dear NAIA, we’re coming home this year. Please don’t plant bullets in our luggage. We’re domestic helpers, not criminals. Our tools are brooms and mops, not firearms. Just do your job properly.”

The fear is palpable, prompting many travelers to take measures to safeguard their belongings. Wrapping luggage in cling film has become a common sight, a desperate attempt to deter potential extortion.

The practice, which first gained notoriety in 2015, has returned to the forefront of public discourse following a recent incident involving a 69-year-old traveler, Adel, who reported being targeted by the scam.

In response to the alarming situation, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the allegations.

Transportation Secretary Vinz Dizon has announced plans to implement a hotline for passengers to report complaints directly, aiming to enhance accountability and empower travelers.

The New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC), which oversees airport operations, has acknowledged the seriousness of the issue and emphasized the collective responsibility of various government entities in ensuring passenger safety.

The NNIC has partnered with the Office for Transportation Security (OTS) to review surveillance footage related to recent incidents.

The “tanim-bala” scheme first gained notoriety in 2015 when American missionary Lane Michael White was accused of carrying a bullet in his luggage. He was detained for five days before being released after his bail was reduced. White identified two OTS personnel as alleged participants in the scheme, highlighting the potential involvement of corrupt airport personnel.

While the government has taken action against individuals linked to the scam, the Department of Justice says it is too early to confirm the existence of a broader network involved in that extortion activity.

Authorities are now probing the possibility of a larger syndicate operating behind the scheme.