MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has instructed a comprehensive investigation into the alleged “tanim-bala” (bullet-planting) incident at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), which gained attention following a viral social media video. The video sparked concerns over the potential revival of the extortion racket, according to Malacañang on Monday.

In a press briefing, Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro shared that Marcos has directed the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to thoroughly investigate the event, which took place at NAIA’s Terminal 3 in Pasay City on March 6.

Castro emphasized the President’s concern, stating, “This is not good if this happens again.” She further stated that if the allegations are proven true, those responsible could face termination from their positions.

“This will definitely be investigated by the President. With the help of DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon, we will look into it, and if proven to be true, those behind this will face consequences,” Castro said.

The “tanim-bala” scam first emerged in 2015, with airport security officers accused of planting bullets in travelers’ luggage. The unsuspecting passengers were then allegedly coerced into paying bribes to avoid charges of illegal possession of ammunition.

Castro also stressed that President Marcos would not tolerate such illegal practices, particularly if Filipino citizens or international visitors were targeted by airport personnel. “The President will not allow this. If there are those who should be held accountable, they will be,” she added.

As part of the investigation, three security officers have already been dismissed for their alleged involvement in this recent incident, according to DOTr Secretary Dizon.

The incident came to light after a 69-year-old passenger shared her experience online, where she described nearly missing her flight to Vietnam. She claimed that personnel from the Office for Transportation Security (OTS) approached her after she had already cleared security checks, accusing her of carrying an “anting-anting” (amulet). The OTS staff then began inspecting her handbag, though no bullet was found. Victims’ photos and videos also showed the OTS personnel laughing and covering their nameplates during the incident.

ia/mnm