Photo: Banaue Rice Terraces · Public domain
🇵🇭 Use CautionIs Philippines Safe for First-Time Travelers?
Safety Scores / Philippines
Travel verdict: Popular islands like Palawan, Boracay, and Cebu are generally safe for tourists. Avoid Mindanao and far southern regions entirely. The scores and risks below say why.
Safety Scores
Key Risks
- Violent crime including armed robbery and kidnapping in some areas
- Mindanao and Sulu Archipelago have active armed conflict; avoid
- Frequent typhoons, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions
Regional Safety
Manila: Makati, BGC (Fort Bonifacio), Bonifacio Global City; Cebu City (IT Park, Ayala); Boracay; Palawan (El Nido, Coron, Puerto Princesa); Siargao; Bohol; Batanes
Manila: Quiapo, Divisoria, Ermita at night; Cebu outer areas; Davao City (relatively stable but monitor); Cagayan de Oro
Sulu Archipelago, Basilan, Zamboanga Peninsula, Marawi area, Maguindanao: active kidnapping-for-ransom and terrorist operations; do not travel
Check travel advisories; avoid Mindanao and Sulu regions
Medical facilities limited outside Manila; travel insurance essential
Use ATMs in malls; avoid street money changers
Emergency: 911 nationwide
Latest for Philippines
Updates for Philippines will appear here as they are published. Every update cites official sources, so you can plan on it.