ILOILO City – Your vacation post could become a burglar’s invitation.
As the long Christmas season begins, the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) has warned Western Visayans against posting their real-time locations, travel plans and prolonged absences on social media, saying such information could inadvertently alert criminals that their homes are unattended.
PRO-6 director Police Brigadier General Randulf Tuaño said seemingly harmless posts showing where people are, where they are going or how long they will be away could provide information that criminals may exploit.
“Iwasan yung pag-post sa social media ng kanilang locations, ng kanilang pag-alis,” Tuaño said.
The warning comes as the “ber” months usher in increased travel, shopping, family gatherings and other holiday activities, when people are also more likely to carry cash and valuables or leave their homes unattended for extended periods.
Tuaño urged the public to exercise greater caution both online and offline as Christmas approaches.
“Christmas is a time for families and communities to come together, and we want everyone to enjoy the season without unnecessary worries. A little extra caution can go a long way,” Tuaño said.
Residents were advised to properly secure their homes, including doors and windows, before leaving and to avoid leaving valuables unattended.
People withdrawing money from automated teller machines or carrying large amounts of cash should also remain alert, while commuters and motorists were urged to be conscious of their surroundings.
Tuaño said PRO-6 is strengthening coordination with local government officials and other concerned agencies to address emerging security concerns during the holiday season.
PRO-6 is likewise seeking assistance from the Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit (RACU) in conducting cyber patrols as part of efforts to monitor online activities that may affect public safety.
WATCH OUT ON THE ROAD, AT BEACHES
Beyond online security, police also reminded the public to take precautions when traveling to beaches and other bodies of water as holiday and weekend outings increase.
“Isa din na paalala natin,’ yung mga pumupunta sa mga beach at mga dagat, nationwide naman ito, medyo mataas ang drowning incident natin,” Tuaño said.
Families and groups visiting beaches should remain vigilant, particularly when children are near the water.
Motorists traveling during the coming months were likewise advised to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy before embarking on trips.
Police encouraged travelers to plan their trips in advance, secure their homes before leaving and disclose their travel plans only to people they trust.
Parents and guardians were also advised to keep children within sight in crowded areas and designate a meeting place in case family members become separated.
CRIME PREVENTION EVERYONE’S JOB
The safety campaign coincides with the 32nd National Crime Prevention Week from September 1 to 7, 2026, carrying the theme “Strengthening Civilian Oversight and Collective Action for Safer Communities.”
Tuaño stressed that preventing crime cannot be left to the police alone.
“Crime prevention does not begin and end with the police. We need everyone to do their part,” he said.
He urged the public to immediately report suspicious persons or unusual activities through proper channels instead of waiting until a situation worsens.
“If you see something that needs attention, please report it through the proper channels. We would rather receive a report early and respond than have a preventable situation become a bigger problem,” Tuaño said.
PRO-6 is strengthening police visibility and community engagement across Western Visayas as holiday-related activities pick up.
Police said simple precautions — securing homes and vehicles, remaining alert in public places and being careful about information shared on social media — could help prevent crimes and accidents during the country’s extended Christmas season./PN
