Photo courtesy of PNP/Facebook
The Philippine National Police (PNP) intensified intelligence operations nationwide following a foiled attempt by suspected members of a so-called “Termite Gang” who allegedly use tunneling methods to target commercial establishments.
Police Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. ordered regional offices to boost surveillance in high-risk areas and strengthen coordination with private security groups, particularly in pawnshops and financial institutions.
He also directed regular inspections of establishments considered vulnerable to underground entry and structural breaching schemes.
The latest case was recorded in Barangay Nova Proper in Novaliches, Quezon City, where authorities discovered an attempted break-in involving an underground tunnel.
Based on police reports, the incident began on April 22, 2026 after a security guard heard unusual sounds near a manhole inside the pawnshop premises.
The following day, the guard alerted authorities, prompting police to inspect the area and confirm the presence of a tunnel allegedly dug to gain covert access to the establishment.
Investigators said the excavation showed signs of deliberate planning consistent with previous cases involving similar tunneling and burglary methods.
Nartatez said the incident highlighted the need for faster coordination between establishments and law enforcement, adding that investigations were ongoing to identify possible links to other organized crime activities involving similar tactics.