PAO vows to help victims of ‘laglag bala’ scam

FOR SECURITY Travelers have their luggage wrapped in plastic for P160 a piece as security against the
“tanim bala” racket at Ninoy Aquino International Airport. GRIG C. MONTEGRANDE

The Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) has offered to help Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and travelers who have fallen prey to “laglag bala” scam.

PAO Chief Persida Rueda Acosta said they can call the PAO hotline at 929 9436.

Acosta said “any incriminatory act of planting/inserting evidence can be criminally charged of ‘incriminatory machinations’ under Article 363 of the Revised Penal Code and may be meted with a penalty of imprisonment of up to four years.”

Aside from that, Acosta added that those involved in the scam can also be charged for violation of Section 38 of Republic Act 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms Act for re-planting of ammunitions and may be meted with the penalty of reclusion perpetua or imprisonment of up to 40 years. JE