Scam in PhilippinesOther tricks
Targeted kidnapping and hostage taking in Philippines
How it works
Criminals or armed groups seize people and hold them hostage, sometimes for ransom. Ethnic Chinese people and visitors from China are specifically noted as targets of ransom kidnappings. Paying does not guarantee release.
Warning signs
- You are heading into a deserted area at night.
- You are travelling in an area highlighted for kidnapping risk.
How to avoid it
- Avoid the Sulu Archipelago and Mindanao areas highlighted for armed-group activity.
- Avoid deserted areas at night.
- Stay aware of your surroundings and avoid going out alone after dark.
If it happens to you
Prioritise survival and avoid confrontation. If someone you know is taken, contact the police and their embassy immediately and seek specialist guidance.
- 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.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Government adviceSafety and security - Philippines travel advice - GOV.UKBritish authorities warn that terrorist groups target foreign nationals, including tourists, for kidnapping in Mindanao and cite previous abductions of Westerners.Read on Government advice
- Government advicePhilippines travel adviceCanadian advice describes ransom kidnappings targeting people perceived as wealthy, including foreigners on private boats and at marinas and resorts, with some victims killed.Read on Government advice
Questions
What is the targeted kidnapping and hostage taking scam in Philippines?
Criminals or armed groups seize people and hold them hostage, sometimes for ransom. Ethnic Chinese people and visitors from China are specifically noted as targets of ransom kidnappings. Paying does not guarantee release.
How can I spot it early?
You are heading into a deserted area at night. You are travelling in an area highlighted for kidnapping risk.
How do I avoid targeted kidnapping and hostage taking in Philippines?
Avoid the Sulu Archipelago and Mindanao areas highlighted for armed-group activity. Avoid deserted areas at night. Stay aware of your surroundings and avoid going out alone after dark.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Prioritise survival and avoid confrontation. If someone you know is taken, contact the police and their embassy immediately and seek specialist guidance.
Where in Philippines does this happen?
Risk is highlighted in the Sulu Archipelago and Mindanao; targeted hostage taking has also occurred in Manila It has been reported in Manila.
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.
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