Makati cracks down on theft amid high-profile cases

LocalPolitics
22 Jan 2026 • 1:32 PM MYT
The Manila Times
The Manila Times

One of the longest-running English broadsheets in the Philippines

MANILA, Philippines — Makati Mayor Nancy Binay on Thursday ordered more police visibility across the city amid a series of high-profile cases of theft, citing the need to sustain public safety and deter repeat offenses.

One of the high-profile cases involved social media influencer Marries Cabral, who reported her iPhone 17 stolen while she was in Poblacion village. The Poblacion Police recovered the device, and in a TikTok video, Cabral personally thanked the authorities for their swift action.

Authorities also apprehended a suspected “salisi” thief and several individuals involved in a mobile phone theft that escalated into a high-speed chase, demonstrating the department’s rapid response and operational readiness.

Binay said the recent operations underscored the city police’s vigilance in keeping Makati safe. During a meeting at City Hall with police chief Col. Pedro Alagano, she ordered intensified patrols in all villages, with priority on commercial districts, transport hubs, and other high-traffic locations.

Binay added that the local government would continue supporting police operations with additional vehicles, modern equipment, and upgraded surveillance systems, aiming to ensure that residents, workers, and visitors can move around the city safely at any time.