What to Do If You're a Victim of Crime or an Accident
Last updated: 2026-10-18
A summary of what to prioritize in an emergency — robbery, fraud, accidents, a lost passport, and more.
If you run into trouble in the Philippines — robbery, fraud, an accident, and so on — staying calm and acting in order of priority helps prevent the situation from getting worse. If your life is in danger, don't hesitate to call the emergency number.
Overview
Steps
- Don't resist — prioritize your safety and move to a safe location.
- Call the nationwide emergency number 911, and the Philippine Red Cross at 143 if needed.
- Consult the embassy's assistance desk for Japanese nationals.
- File a Police Report / Blotter at a police station to preserve a record.
- If your passport is stolen or lost, contact the embassy's consular section promptly.
- In fraud cases, stop sending any more money and save the transfer details and conversation history.
Preparation checklist
- The nationwide emergency number 911 and your local police contact
- The embassy's emergency contact (assistance section for Japanese nationals)
- Your address and a nearby landmark
- A copy of your passport number (kept separately from the original)
- Your travel insurance emergency contact
Frequently asked questions
What should I do if my passport is lost or stolen?
File a Police Report at the nearest police station promptly and contact the embassy's consular section. Issuing a travel document or new passport can take time, so it's important to consult them early.
How should I preserve evidence of an incident or accident?
As much as possible, take photos of the scene, record the other party's information and witness contact details, and obtain a Police Report / Blotter from the police. These records may also be needed for an insurance claim.
What should I do first if I realize I've been scammed?
Immediately stop any further transfers or payments, save the transfer details and your communication history (chat, email), and consult the police, the embassy, and your financial institution if necessary.
What should I check to reduce my day-to-day risk of crime?
Before departure and while you are in the Philippines, check the latest travel-safety information from Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines for guidance about your destination and travel times. Keep cash and valuables out of sight, and do not leave your belongings unattended. Do not act immediately on invitations from strangers, requests for money or personal information, or unusually high charges; verify official businesses and contact details first. In an emergency, call 911 and move to a safe place.
How can I stay safer at night and while getting around?
Before travelling, check the latest area-specific advisories from Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the embassy. At night or in unfamiliar areas, choose well-lit, busy pick-up and drop-off points. When using a ride-hailing service or taxi, use an official app or rank, confirm the vehicle and driver, and share your destination and expected arrival with someone you trust. If you face a robbery or immediate danger, do not resist; get to a safe place and call 911.
What should I do if a stranger offers me food or a drink?
If a stranger on the street or in a restaurant offers food, a drink, or an invitation to another venue, do not follow them or accept anything that has been out of your sight. Stay with your travel companion, and keep track of food and drinks you order and receive yourself. If you feel unwell or notice an unusual charge or other concern, leave for a safe place and ask staff, the police, or the embassy for help.
If your life is in danger, don't hesitate to call the local emergency number, 911.