CAINTA, Philippines — April 23, 2026 — A man in Cainta, Rizal was caught on CCTV making the sign of the cross before committing a robbery against an Indian national, raising alarm among residents and prompting barangay officials to tighten security in the area.

The incident happened on April 18 in Bagong Silang, Barangay San Juan, where the suspect was seen standing in a narrow alley as if waiting for someone to pass. Moments before the crime, he paused and made the sign of the cross while holding a knife.

The video showed the suspect signaling to an accomplice before hiding to the side. Shortly after, an Indian national arrived to collect payments from residents. The suspect suddenly confronted him, forcing the victim to hand over ₱5,000 in cash. After the robbery, the suspect walked away calmly as if nothing had happened.

Local officials later confirmed that the suspect is a resident of the barangay. Members of the neighborhood association went to his house, but he was no longer there. Records revealed that he had previously been jailed in February for stealing a door.

Despite the incident, the victim chose not to file a complaint since he is not from the area. Barangay officials assured him of protection while he continues his collection work. “Yun talaga ang pakay, inabangan niya sa eskenita,” said Cesar Quiano, president of the Bagong Silang Neighborhood Association.

Police and barangay leaders have since intensified patrols and urged the suspect to surrender. “Pakiusap ko, sumuko ka sa amin, tutulungan ka namin,” Quiano added. Ferdinand Del Rosario, deputy chief of Barangay San Juan Police, vowed that authorities will pursue the suspect relentlessly.

The unusual act of making the sign of the cross before committing a crime has sparked strong reactions on social media, with many netizens expressing disbelief and outrage. Barangay officials continue to monitor the area closely to prevent similar incidents from happening again.

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