Safety

The Philippines is sometimes portrayed as a very violent country with an exceptionally high crime rate. These reports are usually exaggerated, and the violent crime – which no doubt exists and exceeds the rates in most western countries – is normally directed towards the Filipinos themselves. The amount of homicides skyrockets especially during elections, as politics in the Philippines have qualities like in the “Wild West”. However, tourists are targets as well, and precaution and common sense come in handy, especially when visiting Manila or other urban areas. Here are some pointers that should increase your personal safety and will help you to have a safer stay in the Philippines:

  • Avoid certain places completely, such as the slums (squatter areas) and the island of Mindanao in the south of the Philippines. These places have a higher potential for you to get into trouble, and there is no Kitesurfing there anyway.
  • Keep track of news and weather forecasts as well as you can and avoid areas with current flooding, typhoons, etc…
  • Mind which area you are moving around in. Whilst it is most likely fine to walk around business districts like Makati or Ortigas with an expensive camera dangling from your neck, it is most likely not in areas like Pasay, Divisoria or Tondo. The rural areas are usually peaceful and safe, and this is where you will be for Kitesurfing anyway.
  • Be aware of the fact that as a Caucasian you will stick out of the crowd, even when dressing in a modest way. Most locals will perceive you as a rich person no matter what you do.
  • Women should take caution when traveling alone and not dress too skimpy. When walking the streets, opt for jeans instead of boyshorts; T-shirts instead of tank tops; boardshorts instead of bikini bottoms. Spaghetti straps with bras showing through are considered low-class and may attract unwanted attention.
  • It is fun to use Jeepneys and Tricycles to get around and just for the sake of having the experience. However, when travelling with your massive board bag it is neither safe nor fun to do so. You have to be aware of pickpockets in crowded places, and when you are smushed in an overloaded Jeepney or MRT/LRT (Metro Manila trains), it’s almost impossible to worry about your board bag and the belongings on your body at the same time.
  • Keep your valuables close to you; only bring as much cash as necessary; don’t use ATMs in questionable locations. Same as back home.
  • There have been cases of tourists being robbed of their belongings by Filipinos inviting them to their house or to travel together. Better to be suspicious; do not go with people you do not know.
  • Never underestimate the danger coming from armed guards or the police themselves. There are many self-proclaimed police guards out there, making up regulations to rip off the unsuspecting foreigner. If there are a bunch of police or guards in a bar, wearing uniforms and guns, it is best to leave immediately.
  • Always leave your hotel room locked, and never leave cash or valuables lying around.
  • If leaving the table at a bar or restaurant to use the bathroom, always take your wallet and handbag with you (again: common sense).
  • It should be fine to leave the doors of your apartment, hotel or house unlocked during the day if you are on the property, but always lock them before retiring for the night.

A final word: If you remember the pointers above and use common sense, the Philippines is a considerably safe country to travel to. Of course, there is always the risk of getting into trouble – just like anywhere else.