Manila: Authorities have reminded the public, particularly those who are going home to their provinces this Undas to ensure that their homes are properly secured as criminal elements may take advantage of their absence.
According to Philippines News Agency, speaking at the MACHRA Balitaan news forum held by the Manila City Hall Reporters' Association at the Harbor View Restaurant in Ermita, Manila on Friday, Criminal Investigation Division Group-National Capital Region (CIDG-NCR) chief, Col. John Guiagui, cautioned that unscrupulous individuals are ready to strike if they see an opportunity.
"Many may take advantage, the pickpockets will be busy in the queue at the cemetery. You'll just realize that your belongings are gone, they've been stolen," he said.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) official advised the public to immediately report any suspicious characters or movements, assuring that an ample number of police personnel are deployed in strategic areas.
Guiagui advised homeowners to seek help from neighbors and the barangay in watching over their houses before leaving for the cemeteries and their hometowns.
"We know that many of our countrymen are already in their respective provinces. Many have left their homes or have no one to guard them because they brought their dogs with them, so if that's the case, make sure to ask your neighbor or barangay officials to look after your house while you're gone," he said.
"The police can also do it. You can always call the PCPs (police community precincts) or police stations if you have concerns, the police will come by motorbike to check on your home," Guiagui added.
In instances where the residents leave their helpers to look after their houses, Guiagui said homeowners should make sure to still check on them from time to time.
"Let's also check if they (helpers) are still at home because they might also go out. Tell them to lock up and check the things to see if they are still there," he said.
Guiagui added that househelps must be constantly briefed about the modus operandi of the so-called "Dugo Dugo Gang" which continues to victimize households to this day. He said gang members would call up househelpers and coax them to get their employer's money and valuables on the pretext that their employer had met an accident and needed money for hospital expenses right away.
Many Catholic Filipinos, especially in the NCR, leave their homes for their respective provinces for the long weekend, which is also the commemoration this year of All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day on Nov. 1 and Nov. 2, respectively.
