Screenshot of the website of Chinese Embassy in the Philippines

Chinese Embassy in the Philippines on Sunday urged Chinese nationals in the country to stay vigilant amid rising cases of armed robberies, drug-facilitated thefts, exchange frauds, and thefts.

Amid recent security instability in parts of the Philippines, the embassy released a notification, highlighting several incidents involving Chinese nationals, causing significant personal and financial losses.

Chinese nationals are suggested to avoid going to high-risk areas, try to go out in groups, and reduce unnecessary nighttime outings.

Be cautious of strangers initiating contact, and avoid dining with strangers or visiting bars and nightclubs, the embassy advised, suggesting not consume drinks, food, or cigarettes offered by strangers, and keep food and drinks in sight while dining.

The embassy also reminded Chinese nationals to remain vigilant in unfamiliar areas, keep family informed of one’s plans and situation, and maintain emergency contact details for relatives and consulates.

The embassy advised avoiding displays of wealth or carrying large sums of cash and valuables. In crowded places, be vigilant and safeguard personal belongings.

The embassy also urged conducting currency exchanges through legal channels like banks to avoid scams or illegal transactions.

Finally, the embassy advised keeping travel documents like passports secure. If such documents are lost or stolen, report losses to the police and apply for replacements through the embassy.

Global Times