You might have encountered several forwarded emails about a string of abductions happening in the Alabang area around May 2006. Several variations of the alleged abductions circulated the net. Personally, I’m not sure whether these incidents were true or not. Regardless, everyone should always be vigilant especially call center employees who commute at night.

Northgate Cyberzone, an I.T. park located in Alabang recently heightened the level of security in the area. There are now checkpoints located after The Bellevue Hotel and its other entrance near Caltex along Alabang-Zapote Road. They’d stop to ask you why you would need to enter the vicinity first before proceeding. Employees working in the area just have to flash their IDs and they’re ready to go. Apparently, non-employees need to mention why they need to pass by the area (possibly to fetch a family member or apply).

Rumors (I repeat… rumors) have been circulating that another abduction has happened in the area which led to the heightened security in Northgate Cyberzone. Whether or not these rumors are true, I do suggest that everyone, most especially call center employees working at night, be extra careful when commuting and driving. I’ve met countless call center employees who had experienced hold-ups and people who have encountered vehicular accidents while driving at night. I don’t want to hear that someone I know has been abducted, raped, or worse, killed.

Though I’ve only commuted a few times going to work, I highly recommend these precautions:

• Commute in groups. You’ve got strength in numbers.
• Avoid bringing high amounts of cash or other valuables. Ladies, expensive jewelry may make you look and feel like a million bucks, but you’re just luring robbers like bees are to nectar.
• Carpool. You’re safe and you save money. How can you go wrong with that?
• Take advantage of the shuttle services. Most call centers have shuttle services for its employees that bring them to safe drop-off points. It may take a while for the shuttle to fill up. But hey, you may waste time, but you may be saving your life.

Lastly, to the friends and relatives of all call center employees, please be extra considerate. Give them a ride if you can. If they have to take a cab, get the cab’s plate number and have them text or call you if they have arrived safely home. Again, even if these kidnapping events are just rumors, it doesn’t mean that we don’t need to be careful.