Philippines Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Philippines.
Healthcare System
The Philippines has a two-tier healthcare system with private and public facilities. Private hospitals in major cities like Manila, Cebu, and Davao offer high-quality care with English-speaking staff and modern equipment. Public hospitals are more affordable but often overcrowded with longer wait times. Healthcare quality varies significantly between urban and rural areas.
Hospitals
Major private hospitals include Makati Medical Center, St. Luke's Medical Center (Manila and Quezon City), The Medical City, and Asian Hospital in Metro Manila. Cebu has Cebu Doctors' University Hospital and Chong Hua Hospital. These accept international insurance and offer cashless services for some insurers. Always carry your insurance card and passport. Payment or deposit is often required before treatment.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies (called 'drugstores' or 'botika') are widely available in cities and towns. Major chains include Mercury Drug, Watsons, and South Star Drug. Many medications available by prescription-only in other countries can be purchased over-the-counter, but quality control varies. Bring sufficient supplies of prescription medications in original packaging. 24-hour pharmacies exist in major cities.
Insurance
Travel insurance with comprehensive medical coverage is strongly recommended and essential. Medical evacuation from remote islands can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Ensure your policy covers adventure activities if you plan to dive, surf, or engage in water sports. Most private hospitals require proof of insurance or upfront payment before treatment.
Healthcare Tips
- Carry a basic first aid kit and any prescription medications in original packaging with doctor's notes
- Drink only bottled or purified water to avoid waterborne illnesses
- Private hospitals may require deposits or proof of insurance before treating emergencies
- Medical evacuation insurance is crucial if visiting remote islands or provinces
- Dengue fever is common; use mosquito repellent and wear protective clothing
- Check that your travel insurance covers diving and water sports if participating in these activities
- Keep copies of prescriptions and medical records accessible
- Consider hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and rabies vaccinations before travel
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Pickpocketing, bag snatching, and phone theft are common in crowded areas, public transportation, markets, and tourist sites. Thieves often work in groups, with one person creating a distraction while another steals belongings. Motorbike-riding thieves (riding in tandem) may snatch bags from pedestrians.
Road accidents are common due to poor road conditions, reckless driving, and poorly maintained vehicles. Jeepneys and buses may be overcrowded and lack safety features. Motorbike accidents involving tourists are frequent. Maritime accidents occur due to overloaded ferries and poor weather conditions.
Armed groups including Abu Sayyaf and communist insurgents operate in certain regions. Kidnapping for ransom has targeted foreigners, particularly in Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago. Terrorist attacks, though infrequent, have occurred.
Drowning incidents occur due to strong currents, riptides, lack of lifeguards, and alcohol consumption. Many beaches lack warning systems or safety personnel. Diving and snorkeling accidents happen with unlicensed operators.
Traveler's diarrhea, typhoid, hepatitis A, and cholera can be contracted from contaminated food and water. Street food may be prepared in unsanitary conditions. Tap water is not safe to drink in most areas.
Dengue fever is endemic throughout the Philippines with cases year-round, peaking during rainy season. Malaria exists in some rural areas. Zika virus has been reported. These diseases are transmitted by mosquitoes.
The Philippines has a high incidence of rabies from dogs, cats, and bats. Stray dogs are common. Rabies is fatal if untreated after exposure.
The Philippines has extremely strict drug laws with severe penalties including life imprisonment. The government's anti-drug campaign has resulted in thousands of deaths. Even small amounts of drugs can result in serious legal consequences. Foreigners are not exempt from prosecution.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Taxi drivers refuse to use the meter, quote inflated flat rates, take longer routes, or claim the meter is broken. Some airport taxis operate without proper licenses and charge excessive fees. Tricycle drivers may also overcharge tourists.
In some establishments, particularly in Manila's entertainment districts, tourists are presented with grossly inflated bills after being encouraged to buy drinks for 'hostesses' or 'models.' Drinks may be spiked. Security prevents leaving until payment is made. Some involve drugging and robbery.
Scammers posing as police officers stop tourists, claim to check for drugs or counterfeit money, then demand bribes or actually steal from victims. They may flash fake badges or wear uniforms.
One person creates a distraction (spilling something on you, asking for directions, dropping coins) while an accomplice steals your bag, phone, or wallet. Children may be used as distractions.
Unlicensed tour operators offer cheap tours but provide poor service, skip advertised activities, or abandon tourists. Some boat tours are operated by uninsured companies with unsafe vessels. Hidden fees are added later.
Devices attached to ATMs capture card information and PIN numbers. Restaurant or shop staff may copy card details. Cloned cards are then used for fraudulent transactions.
Hotels or resorts show attractive photos online but actual rooms are in poor condition, different location, or don't have advertised amenities. Some properties don't exist and are complete scams.
Money changers shortchange tourists through quick counting, sleight of hand, or offering favorable rates but providing counterfeit bills. Calculators may be rigged to show incorrect amounts.
Scammers approach tourists with fake charity petitions, donation requests for orphanages, or sob stories. Money doesn't reach legitimate causes.
Renters claim pre-existing damage was caused by the tourist and demand payment for repairs at inflated prices. Some threaten to call police or become aggressive.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
General Safety
- Register with your embassy upon arrival for emergency alerts and assistance
- Keep copies of passport, visa, and important documents separate from originals; store digital copies in cloud storage
- Share your itinerary with family or friends back home
- Learn basic Tagalog phrases; English is widely spoken but local language helps in emergencies
- Keep emergency numbers saved in your phone
- Trust your instincts; if something feels wrong, remove yourself from the situation
- Avoid displaying wealth through expensive jewelry, watches, cameras, or large amounts of cash
- Use hotel safes for valuables, passport, and extra cash
Accommodation Safety
- Choose accommodations in safe, well-lit areas with good reviews
- Verify hotel booking confirmations before arrival
- Check that doors and windows lock properly; use additional locks if available
- Don't open doors to unexpected visitors; verify identity through peephole or call front desk
- Know emergency exits and evacuation routes
- Keep room number private; don't announce it in public
- Store valuables in room safe or hotel safe deposit box
- Meet new acquaintances in public spaces, not your room
Transportation Safety
- Use Grab app (Southeast Asian Uber equivalent) for reliable, trackable rides
- Photograph taxi license plate and driver ID before entering
- Share ride details with someone when traveling alone
- Avoid riding motorcycles as passenger unless experienced and with helmet
- Research ferry companies' safety records before booking inter-island travel
- Avoid overloaded boats and ferries; check for life jackets before boarding
- Don't travel on provincial roads at night due to poor lighting and road conditions
- Book transportation through hotels or reputable companies rather than street touts
Money and Valuables
- Carry only what you need for the day; leave extra cash and cards in hotel safe
- Use ATMs inside banks during business hours rather than standalone machines
- Divide cash between multiple locations (pocket, bag, hotel safe)
- Use credit cards instead of debit cards for better fraud protection
- Keep small bills handy for taxis and small purchases to avoid displaying large amounts
- Be discreet when accessing money; don't count cash in public
- Photograph credit cards (both sides) and store securely for reference if stolen
- Notify banks of travel plans to prevent card blocks
Food and Water Safety
- Drink only bottled water with sealed caps; avoid tap water even for brushing teeth
- Avoid ice unless you're certain it's made from purified water
- Eat at busy restaurants where food turnover is high
- Choose thoroughly cooked food served hot; avoid lukewarm buffets
- Peel fruits yourself; avoid pre-cut fruit from street vendors
- Be cautious with street food; observe preparation hygiene
- Wash hands frequently or use hand sanitizer, especially before eating
- Carry anti-diarrheal medication and oral rehydration salts
Beach and Water Activities
- Use only licensed and insured dive operators with good safety records
- Verify dive equipment condition before use
- Never dive or snorkel alone; use the buddy system
- Wear reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine environment
- Store belongings securely at the beach; don't leave valuables unattended
- Be aware of boat traffic when swimming or snorkeling
- Check weather and sea conditions before water activities
- Wear water shoes to protect from coral, sea urchins, and sharp rocks
- Know your swimming limitations; don't overestimate abilities
Health Precautions
- Get recommended vaccinations before travel (Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid, Tetanus, Rabies if high-risk)
- Bring adequate supply of prescription medications in original packaging
- Carry basic first aid kit including anti-diarrheal, pain relievers, antihistamines, and bandages
- Use mosquito repellent with 30-50% DEET, especially at dawn and dusk
- Wear long sleeves and pants in mosquito-prone areas
- Avoid contact with animals, especially stray dogs and monkeys
- Seek immediate medical attention for any animal bites or scratches
- Stay current on COVID-19 and other health requirements
Cultural Awareness
- Dress modestly when visiting churches and religious sites (cover shoulders and knees)
- Remove shoes when entering homes and some establishments
- Show respect for religious practices and customs
- Ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural areas
- Be patient and polite; raising voice or showing anger is considered rude
- Use both hands or right hand when giving or receiving items
- Avoid pointing with fingers; use open hand or lips to indicate direction
- Learn about local customs in areas you're visiting, especially in Muslim-majority regions
Digital Safety
- Use VPN when accessing public Wi-Fi networks
- Avoid accessing banking or sensitive accounts on public Wi-Fi
- Keep phone and devices charged; carry portable charger
- Back up photos and data regularly to cloud storage
- Enable phone tracking features before travel
- Be cautious about posting real-time location on social media
- Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication
- Keep SIM card information and phone IMEI number recorded separately
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
The Philippines can be safe for women travelers, including solo female travelers, especially in popular tourist areas. Filipino culture is generally friendly and hospitable. However, women should take additional precautions as catcalling, unwanted attention, and harassment can occur, particularly in crowded areas and at night. Most Filipino women dress modestly, and foreign women may receive extra attention. Sexual assault, while not common, does occur. Using common sense, staying alert, and taking standard safety precautions will help ensure a safe trip.
- Dress modestly, especially outside beach resorts; cover shoulders and avoid very short shorts or skirts in cities and rural areas
- Use Grab or hotel-arranged transportation rather than hailing taxis on the street, especially at night
- Avoid walking alone at night; stay in well-lit, populated areas
- Be firm but polite when declining unwanted attention; don't feel obligated to be overly friendly
- Keep phone charged and share location with trusted contacts
- Book accommodations with good security and reviews from other solo female travelers
- Don't accept drinks from strangers; watch your drink being prepared
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, especially in unfamiliar settings
- Wear a fake wedding ring if you want to deter unwanted attention
- Join group tours or activities to meet other travelers safely
- Trust your instincts; remove yourself from uncomfortable situations immediately
- Be cautious about sharing personal information or accommodation details with new acquaintances
- Carry a whistle or personal alarm for emergencies
- Research areas before visiting and avoid isolated beaches or attractions alone
- Connect with other female travelers through online communities for current advice
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Same-sex sexual activity is legal in the Philippines, and there are no specific laws criminalizing LGBTQ+ individuals. However, same-sex marriage is not recognized, and there are no comprehensive anti-discrimination laws protecting LGBTQ+ people at the national level. Some local governments have passed anti-discrimination ordinances.
- Manila, Cebu, and Boracay have active LGBTQ+ scenes with welcoming venues
- Exercise discretion in rural areas and conservative regions where acceptance may be lower
- Be aware that public displays of affection (PDA) between any couples are generally uncommon in Filipino culture
- Research LGBTQ+-friendly accommodations; many hotels and resorts are welcoming
- Connect with local LGBTQ+ communities through social apps or online groups for current advice
- Be more cautious in Muslim-majority areas of Mindanao where conservative values are stronger
- Transgender travelers should carry identification matching their gender presentation to avoid issues
- Metro Manila Pride events occur annually (usually June); check dates if interested in attending
- While generally safe, use common sense and stay aware of surroundings, especially at night
- Some smaller towns may not have visible LGBTQ+ communities; discretion may be prudent
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is essential for visiting the Philippines due to several factors: the healthcare system requires upfront payment at private hospitals, medical evacuation from remote islands can cost $50,000-100,000+, natural disasters like typhoons can disrupt travel plans, adventure activities carry inherent risks, and petty crime is common. Without insurance, a medical emergency or accident could result in devastating financial consequences. The Philippines' geography means that serious medical cases may require evacuation to Manila or even abroad.
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