“These are shameful and criminal acts of extortion that prey on our citizens, especially our balikbayan and overseas Filipino workers, and also our guests from foreign lands,” said ECMI-CBCP Chair Ruperto Santos, bishop of the diocese of Balanga.
Santos called on government especially those who exercise authority over the airports to “investigate these incidences 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.
Travellers, especially OFWs, were advised by the Bataan bishop to be cautious and be extra careful of their bags and belongings, to make a list of contents of their bags and boxes and take pictures as they pack the items.
When accosted by security personnel, he urged the travellers 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.
Should the security personnel insist on opening the luggage, the bishop advised OFWs and other travellers 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.
