PNP urges household vigilance after alleged P1.76 million jewelry theft in Makati

The Philippine National Police is reminding families to take precautions in securing their homes following the arrest of a household worker allegedly linked to the theft of jewelry worth P1.76 million in Makati City.

Based on a report from the National Capital Region Police Office, the houshelp reportedly denied the accusation, claiming that she had also been victimized by a dugo-dugo scam.

Investigators also recovered a foreign currency exchange receipt reflecting a P68,000 transaction, which they are examining to determine its relevance to the case.

PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. said the incident highlights the importance of taking basic security measures at home while maintaining respect for household workers.

“Hindi naman natin kailangang pagdudahan ang bawat taong pinagkakatiwalaan natin sa bahay. Marami sa ating mga household workers ang matagal nang katuwang ng mga pamilya. But trust and basic security measures should always go together,” he said. "Verify backgrounds, keep important belongings secure, and don't ignore concerns that need attention. Ang mahalaga, maiiwasan natin ang ganitong sitwasyon nang hindi nasisira ang respeto at tiwala sa isa't isa."

Nartatez also stressed that authorities must establish the facts through evidence and allow the legal process to take its course.

“Sa ganitong mga kaso, hindi sapat ang hinala o anumang pahayag lamang. We have to establish what actually happened, follow the evidence, and make sure that the investigation is fair to everyone involved,” he added.

The PNP advised the public to report suspected theft and similar incidents to the nearest police station, preserve available evidence, and avoid actions that could put themselves or others at risk.