EL NIDO, Palawan — Authorities in Palawan are investigating a case involving Israeli nationals accused of abandoning a rented pick-up truck by the shoreline in San Vicente, causing nearly ₱3 million worth of damage.

Police reports revealed that three to four Israeli nationals rented the vehicle from a local car rental business, paying only for five days of use. Days later, the pick-up was discovered at Long Beach in San Vicente, submerged in seawater and severely damaged.

The unit was retrieved with the help of the Philippine National Police and brought to a service center for assessment. The damage was estimated to exceed the actual value of the vehicle, with repair costs reaching almost ₱3 million.

Police Major Thirz Starky Timbancaya of PNP El Nido confirmed that the renters have since avoided communication with the car rental company despite a demand letter being sent.

“Hindi na maayos ang pakikipag-ugnayan ng mga nagrenta at iniiwasan ang pananagutan,” Timbancaya said, adding that the foreigners’ lawyer has indicated they will handle the matter.

The incident has sparked frustration among locals, with some questioning whether the foreigners are being treated as “untouchable.” Car rental operators in Palawan have been advised to strengthen verification processes and contracts with clients to prevent similar cases.

Authorities continue to coordinate with the complainant and are exploring legal remedies to hold the suspects accountable. The case highlights the risks faced by small rental businesses in tourist destinations and the need for stricter safeguards when dealing with foreign clients.

This development has quickly gained traction online, with netizens calling for justice and urging stricter enforcement of rental agreements. As Palawan remains one of the country’s top tourist destinations, the incident serves as a cautionary tale for businesses to protect themselves against potential losses. 

Image from Starky Zelensky