ILOILO City – The Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) has issued a public warning against posting vacation plans on social media, stressing that such disclosures could expose homes to burglary and other crimes during the peak summer travel season.
With families preparing for extended trips, police authorities underscored that online posts revealing travel schedules may serve as a “signal” to criminals that houses are left unattended — heightening the risk of break-ins.
Police Brigadier General Josefino Ligan, regional director of PRO-6, emphasized that personal safety must begin even before leaving home, urging the public to practice vigilance and restraint in sharing information online.
“For personal safety, bago kayo umalis ng bahay, pakisiguraduhin…’yung mga safety tips natin… Siguraduhin na naka-lock (ang bahay) and pinaka-importante ‘yung situation awareness. Paglabas nyo pa lang sa bahay, dapat aware na kayo sa environment nyo. May mga strangers ba na hindi nyo kilala, na kahina-hinala? Inyong i-report,” Ligan said.
He warned that posting detailed travel plans — such as the duration and destination of a trip — can inadvertently invite criminal activity, advising families to delay sharing updates until after they return home.
“Paglumbas kayo nang matagal na matagal, i-secure at i-lock nyo ang bahay para ‘di ma-akyat bahay. Ihabilin niyo sa kabitbahay nyo,” he added.
Beyond home security, PRO-6 also flagged risks faced by travellers in crowded or unfamiliar areas, including scams and pickpocketing, calling on the public to remain alert and keep personal belongings secure at all times.
Authorities further highlighted the importance of health precautions amid rising temperatures, reminding vacationers to stay hydrated and avoid heat-related illnesses during outdoor activities.
“Summer…you can feel the heat of the sun. Una ‘yung safety nyo. ‘Wag nyong kalimutan mag inom ng tubig. You hydrate yourself kahit saan kayo pumunta,” Ligan stressed.
PRO-6 reiterated that responsible social media use, heightened situational awareness, and basic home security measures are key to ensuring that summer vacations remain both enjoyable and crime-free./PN
