Safety Notice: Robbery Incident Targeting Korean Tourists in Parañaque, Philippines, and Precautions for Personal Safety
A robbery targeting Korean tourists recently occurred near Macapagal Boulevard in Parañaque City, Metro Manila, Philippines.
Three armed suspects posing as motorcycle ride-hailing drivers approached Korean tourists who were walking and attempted to snatch their bag. The victim was injured on the head and knees while resisting.
Every year during the year-end and New Year holiday season, foot traffic and spending increase in the Philippines, and violent and property crimes such as armed robbery, theft, pickpocketing, and burglary that target this increase tend to rise.
In particular, please be extra careful about motorcycle robberies aimed at valuables (targeting casino visitors, etc.), street robberies, and other crimes targeting tourists.
Please refer to the following and take special care to protect your personal safety and prevent becoming a victim of crime.
<Precautions for Crime Prevention and Response>
1. When using motorcycle and car ride-hailing services
- Use official ride-hailing apps such as Grab, and be sure to check the driver's photo, license plate number, and vehicle model registered in the app.
- Do not use the service if the driver's information does not match the information in the app or if the driver asks you to board in an unusual way.
- Even if a stranger approaches you claiming to be a motorcycle ride-hailing driver, do not go along with them until you have verified their identity and affiliation.
2. When going out at night or traveling on foot
Avoid traveling alone in isolated areas or late at night, and even when unavoidable, share your route and timing with an acquaintance.
3. Beware of motorcycle robberies, pickpocketing, and petty theft
Carry your bag in front of your body or use a bag with a shoulder strap, and refrain from using your mobile phone at the roadside or along the edge of sidewalks. Be especially careful of petty theft and snatching in crowded places.
4. Do not resist robbers carrying weapons
If confronted by a robber carrying a firearm or other weapon, put your physical safety first and do not resist. Once you are safe, immediately report the incident to the police and the embassy, recalling the robber's appearance, direction of escape, and other details.
5. Beware of quarrels and disputes after drinking
Excessive drinking impairs judgment and can lead to becoming a victim of robbery, theft, and other crimes, so we recommend drinking in moderation and avoiding unnecessary arguments or friction with locals.
<Emergency Contacts>
-Consular Call Center: +82-2-3210-0404
-Embassy: +63-917-817-5703
-Cebu Branch Office: +63-32-231-1516-9
Source: Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the Philippines, Overseas Safety Information · Posted 2026-11-03 · Korea Open Government License (KOGL) Type 1 (Attribution)
https://ph.mofa.go.kr/ph-ko/brd/m_27094/view.do?seq=1346452
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