A reported street robbery near the exclusive Ayala Alabang Village has ignited online safety concerns among residents of one of the Philippines’ most upscale enclaves.
The incident, shared in a Facebook post Tuesday night, occurred just outside the popular Molito Lifestyle Center.
“Barangay Ayala Alabang not a safe area anymore???” read the post that quickly circulated, reflecting a growing unease that the area’s once-secure reputation is diminishing.
According to the user, an individual was attacked by two suspects on a motorcycle around 8 p.m. near 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 said.
The victim was reportedly pistol-whipped and dragged along the pavement as the suspects attempted, unsuccessfully, to snatch a necklace. Their efforts ceased when the victim’s female companion screamed, alerting mall security, and the suspects fled.
“Good thing nothing really bad happened to him… though he didn’t come out unscathed,” the post’s author wrote, noting that while the location is “generally safe,” the situation appears to have changed.
Online commenters suggest that persistent issues plague the vicinity, particularly along the dimly lit stretch in front of Molito and facing the Ayala Alabang gates, where street children reportedly begin peddling wares around 9 p.m.
Ayala Alabang Village is renowned as one of the country’s most exclusive residential communities, home to prominent business leaders, celebrities and political figures. Just outside its gates, Molito remains a vibrant commercial hub for diners and families in southern Metro Manila.
The incident has prompted calls for answers and action, as residents ponder whether this was an isolated event or a sign of broader security challenges.
DAILY TRIBUNE has tried to reach the local government of Muntinlupa regarding the incident but has yet to reply.