5 Ways To Be A More Cautious Traveler

We’ve been hearing it for several days now. Apparently, this scam has even been in existence for months! I’m talking about the horror that is the “tanim bala” (bullet planting) or “laglag bala” scam. This is where innocent travelers fall prey to members of alleged syndicates who “drop” live ammunition in luggage and as a result, either miss their flights or get extorted for huge amounts of money.

Case in point: a 60-year old engineer who was flying to Manila from Davao was found in possession of two bullets at the Davao International Airport. Like most of the victims, he said he did not know how the bullets got into his bags but he was charged nonetheless for illegal possession of ammunition. He posted a Php 150,000 bail.

This scam really worries me. Not only for myself and other passengers but for our country as well. I agree when Sen. Chiz Escudero said that this modus operandi, if unstopped, could reverse the government’s gains in tourism and make a complete mockery of the popular “It’s More Fun in the Philippines” campaign.

So how do ordinary travelers like ourselves be more cautious and avoid becoming victims of this modus operandi? As a regular traveler, allow me share some of my personal, practical tips:

1. Keep all pockets and pouches locked. BUT – I hate to say this – unless you have anti-theft, slash-proof bags, it’s still easy for unscrupulous individuals to stick something as simple as a pencil through the zipper and open it. Now to address this, what you can do is wrap your entire bag with cling wrap. This can be DIY or pay Php 160 at a service provider at NAIA. Alternatively, you can buy luggage covers. These are even available in colorful, trendy designs so you can easily spot them at the baggage area.
2. As much as possible, carry your own bags. Don’t let anybody touch or go near your bags. Use trolleys. Whenever I reach the xay machines, I give the person before me the courtesy of at least 2 feet before I place my bags on the conveyor belt. In the event that you really need assistance, commission your regular porter or bring a travel companion.
3. Avoid accepting any packages from anybody. If these come from friends or relatives, make sure that you know the exact contents of the package.
4. Keep an eye on your bags as these pass through the xay machine. Now if an airport security officer claims that they saw a bullet, don’t let them touch your bag first. Ask if you can see the xay monitor. You can let officials go through your bag but if and ONLY IF there are witnesses such as a lawyer, airport supervisor, your travel companions and/or third party witnesses.
5. My most important advice – KNOW YOUR RIGHTS and insist on them. First off, you have the right to remain silent so never allow anybody to pressure you into admitting to a crime you did not commit. Do not sign any waiver of any kind without the presence of a lawyer. Never give in to extortion. Remember, you can insist that the bullet be checked for your fingerprints.

I hope these tips help. Let’s all be more vigilant and help stop this scam!

That’s it for this week! Visit my blog Mindanaoan.com for more lifestyle, pop culture and travel stories. Til next ish! Safe travels, everybody!