SafeTrip Philippines
Your comprehensive guide to staying safe and healthy while exploring the beautiful Philippines
General Emergency
911
Police, Fire, Medical
Police Hotline
117
Police National Operations Center
Tourist Assistance: Contact the Department of Tourism (DOT) Tourist Assistance Center at (02) 8524-1728 or email info@tourism.gov.ph
Recommended Vaccinations
Routine Vaccinations
Ensure you're up-to-date: MMR, Chickenpox, Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis, Flu, Polio, Shingles
Hepatitis A
Recommended for all unvaccinated travelers over 1 year old
COVID-19
Stay up-to-date with COVID-19 vaccines
Typhoid & Hepatitis B
Consider for extended stays or rural travel
Dengue Fever Prevention
Dengue is a year-round risk in the Philippines. Protect yourself from mosquito bites:
- • Use mosquito repellent with DEET (30-50%)
- • Wear long sleeves and pants, especially at dawn and dusk
- • Stay in accommodations with air conditioning or window screens
- • Use mosquito nets when sleeping
Health Precautions
- ✓Drink only bottled or purified water - avoid tap water and ice from unknown sources
- ✓Use strong sunscreen (SPF 50+) and reapply frequently
- ✓Stay hydrated, especially in tropical heat
- ✓Pack a basic first-aid kit and any prescription medications
- ✓Consider travel insurance that covers medical evacuation
Personal Safety
- ✓Keep valuables secure and avoid displaying expensive items
- ✓Use hotel safes for passports, extra cash, and electronics
- ✓Be vigilant in crowded areas and tourist spots
- ✓Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas
- ✓Keep copies of important documents separate from originals
Transportation Safety
- ✓Use licensed transport providers - Grab app is reliable in urban areas
- ✓Verify taxi meters are running or agree on fares beforehand
- ✓Always wear seatbelts and helmets (for motorcycles)
- ✓International Driving Permit required if license not in English
- ✓Check ferry and boat safety equipment before boarding
Cultural Respect
- ✓Dress modestly when visiting churches and religious sites
- ✓Ask permission before photographing locals
- ✓Remove shoes when entering homes and some establishments
- ✓Avoid public displays of affection in conservative areas
- ✓Learn basic Filipino phrases - locals appreciate the effort
Safe Tourist Destinations
Popular tourist areas like Boracay, Palawan (El Nido, Coron, Puerto Princesa), Cebu, Bohol, Manila, Baguio, Siargao, and most of Luzon and Visayas regions are generally safe with moderate crime rates. Exercise normal precautions.
Note: Travel advisories can change. Always check your government's travel advisory website before departure and register with your embassy upon arrival.
Typhoon Season (June - November)
The Philippines experiences an average of 20 typhoons annually. During typhoon season:
- • Monitor weather forecasts through PAGASA (Philippine weather bureau)
- • Have waterproof gear and emergency supplies ready
- • Follow local evacuation orders immediately
- • Keep emergency contacts and embassy information accessible
- • Consider travel insurance that covers weather-related cancellations
Earthquakes & Volcanic Activity
The Philippines is in the Pacific Ring of Fire. Familiarize yourself with earthquake safety procedures (Drop, Cover, Hold On) and monitor PHIVOLCS alerts for volcanic activity.
Travel Insurance: We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, evacuation, trip cancellation, and lost belongings. Verify your policy covers activities like diving, island hopping, and adventure sports.
This information is for general guidance only. Always verify current conditions, requirements, and advisories with official sources before and during your trip. Stay informed, stay safe, and enjoy your Philippine adventure!