In the heart of one of the country’s most exclusive enclaves, concerns about public safety are stirring online following reports of a brazen street robbery near the Molito Lifestyle Center — a popular destination just outside the gated Ayala Alabang Village.
The incident, shared in a Facebook post Tuesday night, has sparked a wave of concern among residents and netizens who say the once-comforting image of the area has begun to fade.
“Brgy Ayala Alabang not a safe area anymore???” the post read.
According to the user, an old friend was accosted by two motorcycle-riding suspects around 8 p.m., just outside Starbucks Molito.
“Some motorcycle-riding miscreant with another low life in tow (both wearing helmets) pointed a gun at him while he and his companion were walking from ATC to Molito,” the post described.
The victim was reportedly pistol-whipped and dragged along the pavement during the suspects’ attempt — ultimately unsuccessful — to snatch a necklace from his neck.
Their efforts ended when his female companion screamed, alerting mall security. The suspects fled.
“Good thing nothing really bad happened to him… though he didn’t come out unscathed,” the author added, noting that while the location is “generally safe,” the situation seems to have shifted.
According to some netizens, longstanding issues persist in the vicinity, particularly along the dimly lit stretch fronting Molito and facing the Ayala Alabang gates, withsome street children peddling their wares starting around 9 p.m.
Ayala Alabang Village is widely known as one of the country’s most exclusive residential communities, home to business leaders, celebrities, and political figures. Just beyond its gates, Molito remains a vibrant commercial hub frequented by diners and families from southern Metro Manila.
Whether the incident is isolated or signals a larger security concern, many are now calling for answers — and action.