Scam in PhilippinesTheft
Chewing-gum distraction on a bus in Philippines
How it works
Used chewing gum is deliberately stuck to a bus seat as part of a distraction theft.
Warning signs
- There is used chewing gum on your seat.
- Dealing with the gum takes your attention away from your belongings.
How to avoid it
- Check the seat before sitting.
- Keep your bag closed and secure while dealing with gum.
- Keep your phone and wallet put away.
If it happens to you
Secure your belongings before cleaning up. Check for missing items and report any theft.
- Move to a safe public place. Do not chase thieves or start a confrontation.
- Check whether anyone is injured. Get medical help if needed.
- Freeze missing payment cards. Secure affected accounts and block a stolen phone through your provider.
- Save receipts, booking records and messages. Write down the time, place, vehicle details and what happened.
- Report the incident to the police. For taxi complaints, contact the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board on 1342.
- Contact your insurer. Ask your embassy for help if your passport is missing or the incident is serious.
Questions
What is the chewing-gum distraction on a bus scam in Philippines?
Used chewing gum is deliberately stuck to a bus seat as part of a distraction theft.
How can I spot it early?
There is used chewing gum on your seat. Dealing with the gum takes your attention away from your belongings.
How do I avoid chewing-gum distraction on a bus in Philippines?
Check the seat before sitting. Keep your bag closed and secure while dealing with gum. Keep your phone and wallet put away.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Secure your belongings before cleaning up. Check for missing items and report any theft.
Where in Philippines does this happen?
Bus seats
How common is this scam in Philippines?
Occasional. Taxi overcharging and theft are common risks in the Philippines, especially in busy city areas. Watch for drivers refusing the meter, bag snatchers, pickpockets and distractions such as dropped coins or spilled drinks. Keep valuables out of sight and settle disputes calmly.
Are there similar scams in Philippines?
Yes: pickpocketing, bag snatching, including by motorcycle riders, hold-up robbery.
Who can I report it to?
Philippine National Police (PNP): report theft, robbery, threats or fraud at a police station or Police Community Precinct. Bring the evidence you have and ask for a report reference or copy. Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board: call 1342 for a taxi complaint. Keep the plate number, trip details and any receipt. Card issuer or bank: use the bank's official app or verified contact number to freeze a missing card and report unauthorised transactions. Embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for help after passport theft, a serious crime or hostage taking. Travel insurer: contact the claims or assistance service. Keep police reports, receipts and evidence of the loss. Taxi booking app: report the trip through the app and include the booking record, driver details and disputed charge.
Reviewed by @snuck