Safety in the Philippines

Safety in the Philippines is a mixed bag. While many expats report feeling secure, crime and natural disasters remain significant concerns. Major cities like Manila and Cebu have areas with high crime rates, while regions such as Mindanao remain volatile. Still, there are pockets of safety, especially in business districts and well-governed cities.

Stay vigilant, secure your valuables, and keep up to date with political developments and weather warnings. The effectiveness of law enforcement varies, with some areas having a strong police presence while others struggle with corruption and slow response times. In well-monitored business hubs like Makati and Bonifacio Global City, CCTV surveillance and community policing have improved security.

Food and water safety in the Philippines

Food and water safety in the Philippines can be hit or miss. Tap water is generally not safe to drink, and waterborne diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and hepatitis A remain risks. While bottled water is widely available, filtration systems are a smart investment if you plan to stay long-term.

If you’re looking for extra precautions, boiling water is the most effective way to kill bacteria. Reverse osmosis and activated carbon filters also work well for home use, while UV sterilisation and portable water purifiers are ideal for travellers. When out, avoid ordering your drinks with ice, as it often comes from tap water. When eating out, opt for freshly cooked meals over raw or street food, and pay attention to hygiene standards.

Natural disasters in the Philippines

Natural disasters in the Philippines are an unavoidable reality. The country sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it highly vulnerable to earthquakes, typhoons, and volcanic eruptions. If you’re living here, having a solid emergency plan and the right insurance coverage is essential.

The government has improved disaster preparedness through early warning systems, stronger building codes, and better evacuation protocols. Organisations like the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council and the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology provide real-time updates. Stay alert, follow official advice, and know your nearest evacuation routes.

Typhoons

Typhoon season runs from June to November, with several storms making landfall each year. Strong winds, storm surges, and flooding can wreak havoc, especially in coastal and low-lying areas. Even well-developed cities like Manila and Cebu suffer from waterlogged streets and power outages.

Always monitor weather updates from PAGASA, the national weather bureau. If a typhoon warning is issued, stock up on essentials, secure your home, and follow evacuation orders if needed. Preemptive evacuations are common in high-risk areas, with schools and government buildings doubling as shelters.

Consider property insurance that covers typhoons and flood damage, and travel and health insurance to cover emergencies. When a storm is on the horizon, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Earthquakes and volcanoes

The Philippines is no stranger to earthquakes. The country straddles multiple fault lines, making seismic activity a frequent occurrence. Metro Manila, Northern Luzon, and parts of Mindanao are particularly at risk. Experts warn that the West Valley Fault, which runs through Manila, is due for a major quake.

If you experience an earthquake, remember to ‘Drop, Cover, and Hold On’. Stay indoors if possible, avoid doorways, and protect your head. Aftershocks are common, so be cautious even after the shaking stops. PHIVOLCS provides real-time updates on seismic activity, and local authorities will issue safety instructions when needed.

Volcanic eruptions are another hazard. The Mayon Volcano in Albay is one of the most active, with frequent minor eruptions, while the Taal Volcano in Batangas is unpredictable, last erupting in 2022. PHIVOLCS assigns Alert Levels ranging from 0 (normal) to 5 (hazardous eruption imminent). If an alert level rises, follow evacuation orders immediately. Ashfall can cause respiratory problems, so having N95 masks on hand is a smart precaution.

Protests in the Philippines

Protests in the Philippines are a regular occurrence, especially in the capital. Demonstrations often focus on political issues, labour rights, and foreign policy. Anti-government rallies, workers’ strikes, and protests over territorial disputes in the West Philippine Sea are among the most common.

In Manila, protests frequently occur near government buildings, the US embassy, and major public squares. While most demonstrations remain peaceful, large-scale political rallies sometimes lead to tense standoffs with police. Authorities maintain a visible presence, particularly during high-profile events. In some cases, dispersal tactics such as water cannons and arrests have been used.

You should steer clear of protest areas, as situations can escalate quickly. Transport disruptions, roadblocks, and sudden police actions are common near demonstration hotspots. Monitor local news and stay updated on planned protests if you’re in the city.

Security in the southern Philippines

Security in the southern Philippines remains a concern, particularly in Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago. While government efforts have improved stability in some areas, certain regions still face threats from armed insurgent groups.

Groups such as Abu Sayyaf and ISIS-affiliated factions have been responsible for attacks, kidnappings, and armed clashes with government forces. While these incidents have decreased due to sustained military operations, sporadic violence still occurs, particularly in remote areas.

Multiple governments, including the UK and the US, strongly discourage travel to parts of Mindanao. Some urban centres like Davao City have seen significant security improvements and are now considered relatively safe. If you need to visit Mindanao for business or personal reasons, check government travel advisories and take all necessary precautions.

Crime in the Philippines

Crime in the Philippines is a serious concern, especially in major cities like Manila and Cebu. While law enforcement efforts have improved in business districts such as Makati and Bonifacio Global City (BGC), violent crime, theft, and scams remain risks.

Gangs operate in certain areas, and armed robberies have been reported on public transport. Pickpocketing and bag snatching are common in crowded places such as malls, markets, and transport hubs. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and wearing expensive watches or jewellery, as these can attract unwanted attention.

In Metro Manila, some areas have higher crime rates than others. Districts like Tondo, Quiapo, Pasay, and Malate are known for street crime and scams, while parts of Caloocan and Navotas have a history of drug-related violence. If you’re new to the country, it’s best to research neighbourhoods before moving or visiting.

Scams

Scammers often target foreigners in the Philippines, using increasingly sophisticated methods. Some of the most common scams include:

• Fake investment schemes: Fraudsters posing as brokers or business partners offer ‘too-good-to-be-true’ investment opportunities.
• Real estate fraud: Some expats have fallen victim to fake property listings or misleading deals.
• Online romance scams: Scammers build trust over time before asking for financial assistance.
• Tourist traps: Overpriced taxis, fake tour guides, and the ‘your hotel is closed’ trick are common near airports and tourist areas.
• ATM and credit card fraud: Skimming devices can be used to steal banking information. Always inspect ATMs before use and avoid those with unusual covers on the keypad or card slot.

If an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Always verify businesses, deals, and individuals before engaging financially.

Emergency numbers

Emergency response times vary across the country. In Metro Manila and major cities, police response has improved thanks to increased CCTV surveillance and technology-driven crime reporting platforms. In rural and island areas, delays can be significant due to limited resources and infrastructure.

You are strongly advised to purchase an international health and travel insurance plan that includes emergency medical evacuation. Private air ambulance services can be lifesaving in critical situations, particularly in remote areas where medical facilities are limited.

• General emergency number: 911
• Police: 117
• Philippine Red Cross: 143