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30 December 2010
Posted in
BoholLife Blog -
Daily Life in Bohol
I recently heard about a spate of armed robberies taking place in the Tagbilaran / Panglao area.
The modus operandi appears to be two robbers on a bike follow another rider (typically on his own), the pillion passenger brandishes a gun, they ride ahead and force the lone rider to stop.
You are robbed at gun point and as a final finishing touch the robbers shoot your tire so you cannot pursue them. These crimes usually take place in the quieter areas.
While this type of crime is not new to the Philippines it is certainly worth bearing in mind if you are riding around alone at night in Tagbilaran and Panglao. I guess one needs to be extra vigilant and keep an eye on other bikes closely following you or acting suspiciously.
I am aware of a few tourist vans being hijacked in the Danao area, again a group of armed robbers are the culprits. I am sure that in some cases they are assisted by some of the van drivers. The robbers always seem to find a van full unsuspecting tourists carrying all the latest electronic gadgets to capture their trip to the Philippines.
This is not the only country this type of crime happens and for sure it is not that wide spread. I ride a small motorcycle around day and night and am not doing so in fear of being robbed. I will however be much more observant of those riding around me from now.
Do not get too complacent, keeps your eyes open and your wits about you. If you feel something is wrong, if at all possible don't stop. Try and ride to a more built up and populated area.
