Vanessa Antonio and Yanni Collins Recall Frightening Airbnb Encounter in Tagaytay

Booking an Airbnb is usually a relaxing part of any trip, but for dating coach Vanessa Antonio and DJ-host Yanni Collins, their recent stay in Tagaytay turned into a night they will never forget. On the early morning of October 12, 2025, a peaceful getaway quickly became tense when they encountered an alleged intruder at their villa.

Also read: Red Flags to Watch for Before Booking an Airbnb

The Incident

At around 3:28 a.m., Collins was startled by unusual noises and noticed the door slowly opening. When she looked down, she saw a man dressed in a robbery suit with his face completely covered, resembling bandages, attempting to enter the villa. Fortunately, the intruder fled immediately after they screamed.

The group had already felt uneasy because the villa’s door locks were not functioning properly. They had closed the curtains for privacy, which later played a part in the mystery of the break-in.

Reporting Challenges

Trying to report the incident proved frustrating. Calls to local police stations were largely unhelpful. One officer even insisted that “Wala po kaming Talisay sa Batangas or Tagaytay”, even though the villa is located in Talisay, Batangas. The property staff’s response was also slow and lacked urgency, adding to their sense of insecurity.

The Airbnb host, who is a member of the Philippine Coast Guard, appeared defensive and more concerned about refunds than guest safety. He claimed to have checked CCTV footage from midnight onwards, but Collins noted that he had not asked about the exact timing of the incident before making this statement.

Suspicion of Inside Involvement

What made the situation more unsettling was the suspicion that the host or villa staff might have been involved. Collins and her companions remembered that the host had previously mentioned “light footsteps or movement coming from the ceiling at night”, which now seemed suspiciously like a warning in advance. Nothing was stolen, and because the curtains were closed all night, there were no signs of anyone outside the villa.

Airbnb’s Response

After learning about the incident, Airbnb acted promptly by issuing a full refund and coordinating with local police to investigate. The host reported that there were no signs of forced entry or theft. To improve security, the property has installed additional CCTV cameras where allowed, assigned roving staff during the night, and coordinated with local police for increased patrols.

Also read: 12 Cosy Airbnbs in Tagaytay for Your Next Out-of-Town Trip

Safety Tips for Airbnb Guests

This incident is a clear reminder that safety should always come first when booking short-term rentals. Experts recommend checking all locks immediately upon arrival and making sure they work. Bringing portable door locks or alarms can add extra security.

It is also important to research the neighbourhood, keep a list of local emergency contacts including police and medical services, and share your plans or live location with a trusted friend or family member.

While travel is about enjoying new experiences and escaping the routine, incidents like this show that it is always wise to stay vigilant and prepared. Even in a popular destination like Tagaytay, being mindful of safety can make the difference between a relaxing trip and a stressful experience.

Image credit: @dear.yanni | Official Instagram