Bataan bishop asks for investigation on ‘tanim bala’

BALANGA City, Bataan – The Episcopal Commission on Migrants and Itinerant People of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (ECMI – CBCP) on Tuesday expressed great alarm at the alleged “tanim-bala” acts reportedly being done by security personnel at the international airport terminals.

“These are shameful and criminal acts of extortion that prey on our citizens, especially our balik-bayan and Overseas Filipino Workers, and also our guests from foreign lands,” said ECMI- CBCP chairman Ruperto Santos, bishop of the diocese of Balanga.

Santos called on government especially those who exercise authority over the airports to investigate these incidents thoroughly, rigorously and diligently. “They should make sure that everything comes to light and those who are guilty be brought to justice. We understand that our security personnel at our ports of entry have a duty and responsibility to perform especially in enforcing our laws with regards to contraband items,” the Bataan prelate said.

He cautioned them, however, not to use these same laws to extort money and victimize the innocent, and even allow those who are guilty to go scot free. Santos asked security personnel to concentrate on protecting the passengers and ensuring their safety, rather than harassing them.

To travelers, especially to OFWs, the Bataan bishop advised them to be cautious and be extra careful of their bags and belongings; to make a list of the contents of their bags and boxes and take pictures as they pack the items.

When accosted by security personnel, he urged the travelers to be ready with their cell phones to take pictures or video; to insist that they be the one to open the luggage while the security people watch.

If the security personnel insist on opening the luggage, the bishop advised OFWs and other travelers to watch their actions and take pictures and take down their names. “We are one with government in making our country a safe place, and that includes being safe from wayward persons of authority who inflict harm rather than good,” Santos said.