A businesswoman in Mangaldan, Pangasinan is warning the public against letting strangers into their homes after a home service massage ended in theft.

Bernadette Bernabe said she hired a massage therapist she had previously met at a beach in San Fabian and had availed of her services several times. Due to body pain, she decided to try a home service session.

After the massage, Bernabe said she even shared food and drinks with the therapist as it coincided with her child’s birthday. However, she discovered later that money and other items were missing.

“Pagpasok ko sa kwarto, sabi ng anak ko, ‘Mama, binigay ko kay tita yung pera, nahulog kasi niya yung P500.’ Pagtingin ko sa pitaka ko, wala na ‘yung pera,” Bernabe said.

Immediately, she contacted their house help who had accompanied the therapist.

“Kinapkapan nila, nakuha sa bulsa yung [P]12K. Bale, may pitaka pa siyang maliit, andoon daw ang [P]2,500,” she added.

Some of the items stolen, including wine and groceries, were returned later by the suspect’s relative.

The parties involved met at the barangay hall where the suspect denied the allegations but agreed to return the remaining amount of around P2,000.

“Sinettle nila kanina, ibabalik na lang daw niya ‘yung kulang doon sa nakuhang pera,” Barangay Councilman Victor Velasquez said.

The Pangasinan Police Provincial Office said it continues to strengthen police visibility and patrol operations to prevent theft and robbery incidents.

“We sustain ang madalas na pag-iikot para maiwasan ang theft at robbery, extended ang hours of pag-iikot,” Police Colonel Arbel Mercullo said.

Authorities reminded the public to be cautious when allowing unfamiliar individuals into their homes to avoid similar incidents.