Safety in Manila and crime risks
The 2010 hostage crisis raised terrorism fears
Manila is a great place to explore and enjoy shopping. However, tourists should also be aware that while locals are generally kind and hospitable, there are still some unscrupulous individuals that threaten safety in Manila. Normal common sense dictates not to wear flashy jewellery, wave cash around or look like one is obviously a lost tourist in an unfamiliar city.
Apart from the infamous recent example of the tourist bus which was taken hostage by a disgruntled former Manila policeman, incidents against visitors to the city are few and far between. In general, the vast majority of guests to the Philippine capital enjoy their stay without encountering any Manila safety concerns at all.
Safety concerns in Manila
Pickpockets: Some of the problems most often encountered by tourists include pickpockets and mobile phone snatchers. If you need to go to crowded places, be extra careful of your belongings because there are many snatchers and gangs that take advantage of the jam-packed situation to reach into your pocket or bag. Areas that have the most reported incidence of snatching and pick pocketing include España, Pedro Gil Street, Divisoria, Quiapo, Carriedo, and the Pier area.
Credit card fraud: This is one of the most common Manila safety issues for both foreigners and locals in the city. To be safe, only use your credit card in reputable establishments such as shopping centres and brand-name boutiques.
Immediately report any incidences of stolen credit cards. If you want to go online shopping, avoid going to seedy internet cafes and only use the computers of trustworthy establishments. If staying in a hotel, put all your charges on the room bill and then pay that off at check out to avoid lots of repeat transactions which are difficult to keep track of.
Drugs: Drugs are still a common concern in the city but the government is making efforts keep them under control. Authorities will arrest tourists if they find even a small amount of marijuana on their person. If you are caught trafficking drugs you are likely to go to prison for a long time. At all costs, avoid buying drugs in Manila as many pushers work with corrupt cops to extort money.
Tourists should avoid Manila's colouful shanties
Buses: Tourists are also advised to be more cautious when riding in public vehicles such as buses. There are also many cases of holdups and robberies in buses, so to ensure safety in Manila, dress modestly and avoid wearing flashy jewellery that catches the attention of theives. You should also refrain from bringing a lot of valuables and expensive gadgets, but if you must, keep them hidden and do not show them off.
Hustlers and touts: If you are a foreigner, one or more of these individuals are likely to approach you in a public place, even at the airport. They are likely to charge exorbitant fees and they may even invite you to come with them to a different place so you can see their products. For your safety, avoid talking to them or simply ignore them by walking away. If they continue bothering you, approach the security guard or any authority figure such as the police or manager.
Construction: Main roads and lengthy boulevards in Manila have smoother surfaces, but expect a bumpy ride in some parts of the city where there are potholes and uneven roads. If you have to walk, watch where you are going and mind the path you are stepping on to avoid tripping or falling. If possible, avoid stepping on manholes or uncovered drainage systems. Safety measures are generally provided by construction companies when building new establishments and falling debris is not a common concern.
Terrorism: All countries prioritise national security and the Philippines is no exception. There are virtually no terrorist threats in Manila nowadays. The ones you see in the news are very isolated incidences in far-flung areas of Mindanao.
Scams: Scams are very common in the city especially if you are a foreigner. Whether you are shopping or taking a taxi, a scammer may attempt to take advantage of you - especially if you look like an easy target. You can avoid that by taking a note of the taxi’s plate number and name and reporting it to the police if you suspect that you were scammed on the fare.
To avoid merchants and scam vendors, only do your shopping in reputable places such as shopping centres, and always refuse offers from strangers. If in doubt, or something sounds too good to be true, just walk away.
Motorcycles: A lot of Filipinos use motorcycles as their means to get around in the city. But if you are a foreigner driving one around Manila, you may stand out and invite unwanted attention and stares. It is advisable not to hire a motorbike and try to go out on your own. You should also be aware of walking very close to the street while on pavements because there are incidences of thugs riding motorcycles and snatching your belongings as they pass by.
Violence: Filipinos are generally nice to foreigners, but occasionally one may find themself caught in the middle of an argument with an aggressive drunk. Filipinos are also very sensitive people and some remarks which you think are nothing may actually be insulting to them. Make the effort to be extra respectful.
Women alone: Women travelling alone in the Philippines can generally feel safe, but there are very rare cases where a female tourist has been raped, mugged or lured into dangerous situations. As a general rule, always follow your gut instant and never trust strangers too quickly.
