【Key Points】
● This report provides information on general crime in our jurisdiction (the Visayas region). Please use it as a reference when considering safety measures in the area.
【Details】
1. Trends in General and Violent Crimes
(1) According to the Cebu crime statistics provided by the Philippine National Police Region 7, the number of reported crimes between April and June 2024 is as follows. While crime rates, excluding homicides, have decreased compared to the previous period (January to March 2024), crime rates in Cebu remain generally higher than in Japan. Please keep this in mind.
(2) In the Cebu metropolitan area (including Cebu City, Mandaue City, and Lapu-Lapu City), there have been reports of Japanese nationals falling victim to crimes such as snatching, pickpocketing, bag theft, and other types of robbery, as well as extortion schemes targeting tourists. Please be cautious.
(3) There have also been cases of Japanese tourists involved in accidents while participating in tours organized by local travel agencies. If you are planning a trip to Cebu and using a local travel agency for tours, ensure the agency is accredited by the Department of Tourism. If you use an unaccredited agency, you may not be eligible for compensation in the event of an accident.
(4) Additionally, there have been numerous cases where individuals realized their passport was missing just before their return, or it was lost during an outing, resulting in a request for reissuance. Reissuance requires an official copy of the family register (issued within the last six months) and a police report. Furthermore, reissued passports require processing with the Philippine immigration office, which can lead to unexpected time, effort, and financial burdens. Please double-check the location of your passport, and take extra care to prevent loss or theft when carrying it outside.
【Cebu Province Crime Statistics: April–June 2024】
● Homicide (including attempts): 66 cases (45 in the previous period)
(24 cases occurred in Cebu, Mandaue, and Lapu-Lapu cities)
● Physical injuries: 134 cases (104 in the previous period)
(52 cases occurred in the above three cities)
● Rape: 49 cases (58 in the previous period)
(14 cases occurred in the above three cities)
● Robbery: 61 cases (78 in the previous period)
(21 cases occurred in the above three cities)
● Theft: 228 cases (255 in the previous period)
(125 cases occurred in the above three cities)
2. Terrorism and Bombing Incidents
No incidents involving Japanese nationals have been reported.
3. Kidnapping and Extortion Incidents
No incidents involving Japanese nationals have been reported.
4. Safety Issues for Japanese Companies
In the Philippines, it is not uncommon for companies and individuals to be targeted by extortion, threats, or kidnappings. In Cebu, there have also been reports of extortion or suspicious phone calls targeting Japanese companies or their employees. Those involved in Japanese businesses are advised to remain vigilant regarding the safety of their companies and employees.
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