MANILA, Philippines — A 13-year-old girl escaped an alleged attempt by unidentified men in a white van to kidnap her in Caloocan City on Tuesday.
The teenager was walking on her way home when she saw the van parked near the gate of Del Rey Village 3 in Barangay 162, Sta. Quiteria in North Caloocan at past 2:30 p.m., according to a statement from the barangay’s Sangguniang Kabataan.
The girl said three men emerged from the van, with one telling his companions to grab her by the feet.
She said she shouted for help, catching the attention of a tricycle driver who helped her escape and gave her a ride home.
Barangay officials appealed to residents, especially to young girls, to be vigilant when outdoors.
The Caloocan police has yet to disclose details about the alleged kidnapping attempt.
The Philippine National Police has denied reports on social media that a serial killer or a group of people in a white van could be behind the series of kidnappings and killings in Metro Manila and nearby provinces.