🇵🇭 Border + customs scams in Philippines
2 documented patterns
Manila airport 'bullet' scam (planted ammunition)
Reports of single bullets allegedly planted in carry-on luggage during X-ray screening followed by extortion. Always wrap checked bags in airport-supplied plastic; use a small hard-shell carry-on; the practice was documented in 2015-2018 and has reportedly declined post-public outcry but remains an awareness item.
Manila taxi meter-tampering
Taxi meters at NAIA running 2-3x faster than rate. Use Grab app for fixed-price rides; the official airport-supervised taxi window is also reliable.
Last verified 2026-05-09. Report a new scam →