Japanese-run restaurants in Manila have faced a sharp decline in business following a series of armed robberies targeting Japanese nationals, prompting temporary closures and new security measures, officials and business owners reported.
Wave of Armed Robberies
Since October 2024, more than 20 cases involving Japanese victims have been recorded, according to the Japanese Embassy in the Philippines. Most incidents occurred at night, with victims confronted at gunpoint on the streets, while one robbery took place inside a restaurant during operating hours.
Makati, home to the “Little Tokyo” district known for its cluster of Japanese eateries, has been particularly affected. Restaurant operator Masaaki Ema said sales have dropped to one-third or half of previous levels, and many owners have been forced to shut down.
Fatal Attacks Increase Anxiety
The situation worsened in August 2025 when two Japanese men were killed in downtown Manila. According to the embassy, the men were shot after exiting a taxi by a suspect who fled on a motorcycle. While authorities believe victims may have been involved in disputes with criminal groups, the killings intensified fears of nighttime outings.
Company Curfews and Safety Measures
The heightened concern led Japanese companies to impose curfews on employees, affecting nightlife activity and reducing restaurant traffic. Shuzo Shimakawa, operator of an eel restaurant in Makati and head of the Metro Manila Restaurant Association, said the coalition was formed in April to coordinate security measures and restore confidence in Little Tokyo.
Authorities have acted to reassure the public. Makati police chief Reycon Garduque said suspects linked to past robberies have been apprehended and additional police patrols now operate daily in Little Tokyo from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Shimakawa welcomed the increased presence but emphasized that public confidence will take time to recover. “Safety is sufficiently guaranteed now. But people’s fear doesn’t disappear overnight. We hope customers will come back soon,” he said.
Ongoing Uncertainty for Restaurateurs
Despite the security efforts, Japanese restaurant operators continue to face uncertainty, balancing safety, declining patronage, and efforts to revive the area’s once-bustling streets.
