Residents in Sta. Barbara, Pangasinan have been warned against a new theft scheme where suspects pose as beggars to gain access to homes, local officials said.

CCTV footage from Barangay Banaoang showed a woman wearing a face mask walking along a street before peeking through a house window. The homeowner later reported that two mobile phones worth about P12,000 were taken.

The victim said the family had gone to rest inside their room after eating, leaving part of the house open.

“Kasi tuwing pagkatapos namin kumain, papasok na kami sa kwarto magpahinga kasi mainit. Nasa kwarto na kami lahat. Nakabukas ang pintuan sa kusina. Hinahanap cellphone tapos lumabas ‘yung anak ko. Pinatingin sa CCTV, may pumasok pala na babae. ‘Yung babaeng dumaan sa harap tumingin pa sa bintana, tapos dumiretso sa kusina, ‘yun pumasok dito,” the victim said.

A similar incident was reported in nearby Barangay Maningding, where the same suspect allegedly approached a house holding a piece of paper and knocked before entering when no one responded.

The homeowner, who declined to be identified, said the suspect claimed she was asking for help while showing the paper, but fled shortly after noticing people inside.

Barangay Chairman Lawrence Ferree Zulueta said they have alerted village officials and volunteers following the incidents.

“Inalerto ko na rin mga kagawad at CVO’s natin. Parang hindi inaasahan na maglilimos ‘yung tao tapos biglang papasok sa loob pag walang bantay. Maging vigilant sila lalo na ngayong panahon ng krisis. Talagang [maraming] nananamantala,” Zulueta said.

Authorities said the suspect’s method involves pretending to ask for alms, then taking valuables when given the opportunity.

The victim in Barangay Banaoang did not file a police report, but officials urged residents to remain alert and secure their homes to avoid similar incidents.