CBCP-ECMI Asks Lawmakers to Re-examine RA 10591 to Stop Tanim-Bala

Balanga City, Bataan (PNA)–The Episcopal Commission on Migrants and Itinerant People of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines has asked lawmakers to re-examine Republic Act 10591 to stop “tanim-bala” in the country’s airports.

Bataan Bishop Ruperto Santos, CBCP-ECMI chair, said it is time for lawmakers to revisit the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunitions Regulations Act to make it clearer and more effective in warding off the real security threats in the country.

“This law should not be used by criminal-minded people to prey on innocent Overseas Filipino Workers and even tourists as well. Why do we allow that they become victims of this criminal act right in our airports?,” he said.

The bishop said airport authorities seem to dismiss these as small incidents.

“Tanim-bala is a big thing to our OFWs. It should be a big thing for our country’s reputation because it gives lie to the tourism slogan, because there is no fun in extortion,” he said.

Santos believed the law may have the welfare and security of the country at heart but he claimed that it had been exploited also by those who have extortion in their hearts.

“It is said that people carry bullets in the belief that these are amulets that protect and heal. Can the authorities not just confiscate these in the same way as knives and nail cutters and then let the carriers go?,” the bishop said.

He, however, cautioned OFWs not to rely on bullets as amulets but on God for their protection and welfare.

Latest reports showed that Malacanang has ordered an investigation of the matter. Santos said it is about time and urged the palace to thoroughly investigate and act fast and resolutely.

“Tanim-bala is obviously a scam, perhaps operated by an internal airport ‘syndicate’ of security and lay personnel who takes advantage of a law that prohibits and penalizes the carrying of live bullets,” the bishop of the diocese of Balanga said.

He called on government officials to put an end to what he described as shameful practice and to investigate and punish those responsible.

Santos reminded OFWs to be vigilant and watchful. “We are always with you in your struggles for your family and your country,” he said. (PNA) RMA/ZST/EBE/PS