What Should I Be Careful Of in the Philippines?

When traveling to the Philippines, you should exercise a high degree of caution primarily due to the risks of crime, terrorism, and kidnapping. Being aware of these potential dangers and taking proactive measures can significantly enhance your safety.

Here's a detailed breakdown of what to be careful of:

Crime

Crime is a concern in the Philippines, ranging from petty offenses to more serious incidents.

Common Criminal Activities:

• Petty Theft: Pickpocketing and bag-snatching are common, especially in crowded areas like markets, public transport (jeepneys, buses), and tourist spots. Be particularly vigilant in Manila and other major cities.
• Scams: Tourists can be targets of various scams, including:
  • Taxi Scams: Overcharging, rigged meters, or taking longer routes. Always ensure the meter is used or agree on a fare beforehand. Use ride-hailing apps for transparency.
  • ATM Skimming: Be cautious when using ATMs. Check for any unusual devices on the card slot or keypad.
  • Card Fraud: Be careful with credit card usage; prefer cash where possible, especially in less established venues.
• Express Kidnapping: While less common, this involves a victim being abducted for a short period to withdraw money from ATMs or to extort a quick ransom. This typically targets wealthier individuals.
• Drug-Related Crime: Avoid any involvement with illegal drugs, as penalties are extremely severe, including lengthy prison sentences and even the death penalty.

Preventing Crime:

• Secure Valuables: Keep your passport, large sums of cash, and electronics safely stored, ideally in a hotel safe. Carry only what you need for the day.
• Be Aware: Always be mindful of your surroundings, especially in crowded places or at night.
• Reputable Transport: Use official taxis, ride-hailing apps (like Grab), or pre-arranged hotel transfers.
• Avoid Isolated Areas: Do not walk alone in deserted areas, especially after dark.
• Limit Displays of Wealth: Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or flashing large amounts of cash.

Terrorism

There is an ongoing threat of terrorism in the Philippines, particularly in certain regions.

Areas of Concern:

• Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago: The risk of terrorist attacks and extremist violence is significantly higher in these southern regions, including parts of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) and the Sulu Archipelago (e.g., Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi).
• Public Places: Terrorist attacks can occur anywhere, including public transport systems, markets, shopping malls, restaurants, hotels, places of worship, and other tourist sites.
• Government Facilities: Government buildings and security forces are also potential targets.

Staying Safe from Terrorism:

• Avoid High-Risk Areas: Heed travel advisories and avoid non-essential travel to regions with known terrorist threats.
• Maintain Vigilance: Be alert in all public places.
• Stay Informed: Monitor local news and official advisories for any security warnings or changes in the threat level.
• Emergency Plans: Know your hotel's emergency exits and procedures.

Kidnapping

The risk of kidnapping, particularly by terrorist and insurgent groups, is a significant concern, especially for foreigners in specific southern areas.

High-Risk Kidnapping Areas:

• Sulu Archipelago: This region, including Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi, is notorious for kidnappings by groups like Abu Sayyaf.
• Parts of Mindanao: While the risk varies, certain areas in central and western Mindanao can also pose a kidnapping threat.
• Coastal Areas: There have been incidents of kidnappings from coastal areas and islands, especially those close to the Sulu Sea.

Mitigating Kidnapping Risk:

• Avoid Travel to High-Risk Zones: Do not travel to areas where kidnapping is a known threat. Official travel advisories, such as those from the Government of Canada, often recommend avoiding these regions.
• Discreet Travel: If travel to a higher-risk area is unavoidable for specific reasons, maintain a low profile and avoid drawing unnecessary attention to yourself.
• Professional Security: For sensitive travel, consider consulting with security professionals.

Other Important Considerations

By understanding these potential risks and taking appropriate precautions, you can enjoy a safer and more fulfilling experience in the Philippines.