Philippines

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers 

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services. 

• Dial 911 for police or ambulance.  
• Toll-free domestic violence hotlines are available.

Terrorism 

Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad. 

Terrorists may target: 

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.) 
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants 
• Places of worship 
• Schools  
• Parks 
• Shopping malls and markets 
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights) 

Terrorist groups 

Global terrorist organizations affiliated with the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) maintain a presence in the Philippines.  Active ISIS affiliates include elements of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), Ansar al-Khalifa Philippines, and various Dawlah-Islamiyah factions.  Areas of heightened concern include parts of Mindanao, the Sulu Archipelago, and the Sulu Sea.  

The Communist Party of the Philippines/The New People’s Army (CPP/NPA) is designated by the United States as a Foreign Terrorist Organization and a Specially Designated Global Terrorist. CPP/NPA is also recognized as a terrorist organization by the government of the Philippines. Anyone in proximity of CPP/NPA elements is at grave risk of arrest, injury, or death.  Areas of heightened concern include rural and remote regions of Leyte, Mindoro, Negros, and Samar, all of which have seen recent fatal clashes between the CPP/NPA and Philippine forces. 

Foreign terrorist organizations actively recruit Americans to participate directly in terrorist activities and/or provide financial support. 

Safety tips: 

• Do not join or work with terrorist or rebel groups. If you accidentally get involved with a group you think might be a terrorist organization or fighting against the Philippine government, the embassy can help you. Contact them immediately.   
• If you see armed people who are not police or military, leave the area immediately. 
• Some non-governmental organizations have connections with the CPP/NPA and other violent groups. If you are looking to engage in humanitarian activities, you should only work with groups that are registered with the Philippines National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency and apply for get the correct visa.  
• You should also coordinate with local governments if you choose to volunteer. They can provide reliable safety information and help you understand the local situation. 

Demonstrations  

• Demonstrations are common. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on significant holidays, and during large events.  
• U.S. citizens should avoid public demonstrations. Foreign nationals found engaging in a protest or mass demonstration could be considered in violation of their immigration status. 
• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations.  
• Even peaceful rallies or demonstrations can turn violent without warning.  Follow instructions from local authorities. 
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories. 

Crime 

Organized crime and common threats 

• Pickpocketing, internet scams, and credit and ATM card fraud are common. 
• Kidnappings, physical assaults, murder-for-hire, and other violent crimes occur. 
• Robberies can turn violent and victims are sometimes killed. 
• Taxi drivers (or those claiming to be taxi drivers) at international airports sometimes target foreign visitors for scams. This includes overcharging or refusing to use the meter.   
• Consider using ride-sharing applications. If you need to move between terminals, use the official free airport shuttle. 

Vulnerability of U.S. citizens 

• Strangers have drugged and robbed solo travelers after the travelers accepted invitations to visit tourist destinations. 
• Criminals have stopped and robbed travelers shortly after leaving Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport in taxis or private vehicles. 

High-risk situations to stay aware of  

• Avoid strangers who attempt to befriend you, especially just after you arrive in the country. 
• Do not accept food, drinks, or rides in private vehicles from strangers, even if they appear legitimate. 
• Taxi drivers and people using stolen taxi cabs have committed robberies. 

Credit and ATM card fraud 

• Illicit electronic devices attached to ATM card readers can retrieve and record information, including PINs, from a card's magnetic strip. 
• Refer to the Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) website for more information. 

Scams 

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams. 

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.    

Financial scams and Internet romance scams are common in the Philippines. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help.  

Common scams include:  

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel 
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad 
• Romance and online dating  
• Money transfers  
• Grandparent and relative targeting 
• Free trip or luggage  
• Lotteries  
• Inheritance notices  
• Work permits and job offers 

If using dating apps or websites in the Philippines:  

• Criminals may use dating apps to target potential victims for robbery or assault. 
• Let your friends and family know where you are and consider sharing your location on your phone.   
• Meet in a popular public place.  
• Tell your family or friends all the details about the person you are meeting and how you met them (which app). 
• Set up and talk using a video call before agreeing to meet in person.  
• Avoid locations where you can be isolated, like hotel rooms, private apartments or houses. 
• Never leave food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant. 
• Observe the preparation of your food or drink order when possible. 
• Refuse offers of food or drinks from strangers. 
• Have a communication plan with friends or family. Send updates to them on an agreed schedule.  

The embassy cannot investigate allegations of crime or provide for your personal security. U.S. citizen victims of crime should report the crime to Philippine law enforcement. U.S. citizens concerned for their personal safety should relocate to a safe area and contact local law enforcement. 

Sexual assault and domestic violence  

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance.  
• Every police station and local government (barangay) has staff dedicated to countering violence against women and children (VAWC). You may ask to speak with the VAWC (pronounced VOW-see) desk.

Technology use abroad 

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world.  

Follow these safe practices: 

• Outlets in the Philippines look like U.S. plugs but run on 220V. Ensure your devices are rated for this higher voltage before plugging them in to prevent permanent damage. 
• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.  
• Since 2022, the Philippines has required all SIM cards to be registered. This can lead to delays in obtaining a local SIM card at the airport. Having an e-SIM for travel is recommended prior to departing the United States.  
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.  
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.  
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest. 
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens. 

Drones 

• Consult the Bureau of Customs and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines for laws regarding the importation and operation of drones in the Philippines. 

Tourism safety 

The tourism industry is not well regulated: 

• Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare.  
• Dangerous areas and activities are not always marked with signs.  
• Staff may not be trained or certified.  
• In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. However, first responders may not be able to reach you in time to prevent disability or death, especially outside of major metropolitan areas. 
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance.  
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.  

Adventure travel  

Tour operators and transportation companies do not always follow safety rules. This includes activities like scuba diving.  

• They may not provide safety gear or maintain equipment properly.  
• Always wear seatbelts and life jackets, even if others do not.  
• If safety equipment is missing, choose a different company. 
• Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips for Adventure Travel. 

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties 

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws.  
• If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.   
• Travelers who accidentally break local laws have been detained. Sometimes, this can be for a long time. They may also face criminal charges and even be convicted of a crime. 
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad. 
• Before you start a business or a profession in the Philippines seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required. 

Crimes against children 

U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents who commit crimes against children under 18 face prosecution in the Philippines and the United States. This includes exploitation, trafficking, abuse, or possession or distribution of child sex abuse material or child pornography.  

• Both countries work together to prosecute offenders to the fullest extent of the law.  
• Punishments include long prison sentences, large fines, and permanent criminal records.  
• Some U.S. citizens are serving life sentences in Philippine prisons for sex crimes against children and teens. 

Drug laws  

Drug crimes carry strict penalties. They include long prison terms, substantial fines, and in severe cases, life imprisonment.  

• Always carry prescription medication in its original packaging and check with the Philippine Bureau of Customs to ensure it is legal in the Philippines. 
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs could land you immediately in jail. 

Marijuana is illegal  

Medical marijuana is illegal in the Philippines, even with a prescription from the United States or elsewhere.  

• Bringing marijuana or cannabis-based products into the Philippines can result in drug trafficking charges. You can also face a non-bailable offense with a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.   
• Do not bring marijuana or any cannabis-based products, including vape cartridges, into the Philippines under any circumstances.  

Immigration laws  

Philippines strictly enforces immigration laws. Breaking these laws – like overstaying your visa or working without a permit – can result in immediate arrest, detention, and deportation. This can occur even if you have not committed any other crime. 

Please be aware of the following: 

• No political activities. Tourists cannot attend rallies, protests, or political events. Doing so will likely result in immediate deportation and a permanent ban from the Philippines. 
• Public tips lead to arrests. Immigration officials investigate and deport U.S. citizens based on tips from the public. 
• Any police contact triggers immigration checks. Even minor incidents like traffic accidents can lead to immigration status checks. If there's a problem, you may be detained until it's resolved or you're deported. 
• Get proper permits before working. Contact local authorities to learn what permits or licenses you need before starting a business or working in the Philippines

Arrest notification  

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately.

Detention conditions 

Philippine detention facilities are extremely crowded. Living conditions are far below the standard of U.S. facilities.   

• Most facilities do not provide necessities, such as clothing, bedding, or toiletries. Prisoners are expected to rely on family to provide basic items and supplemental food.   
• U.S. detainees who lack a local support network may struggle to provide for their basic needs. 
• Detention facilities lack the capacity to provide many medications or timely medical care. Chronic conditions generally worsen due to inadequate treatment. 
• Consular officers may not be able to provide in-person consular services to U.S. citizens arrested in Level Three or Level Four Travel Advisory areas of the Philippines. Travelers in these areas should expect significant delays in assistance from the U.S. government.  

Counterfeit and pirated goods 

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.  

• They may be illegal according to local laws.   
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.   
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.   

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:  

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection  
• U.S. Department of Justice   

Faith-based travelers 

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your trip using these resources:   

• Faith-Based Travel 
• Volunteering Abroad 
• International Religious Freedom Reports 

Gay and lesbian travelers 

• There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual relations, the provision of information or services to persons on the basis of real or perceived sexual orientation, or the organization of events focused on sexual orientation in the Philippines.   
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers. 

Travelers with accessibility needs 

The law in the Philippines prohibits discrimination against people with physical, sensory, psychosocial, intellectual, and mental disabilities. The law is enforced. 

• The law requires public buildings, transportation, and facilities to be accessible to people with disabilities, but compliance is limited. 
• Most public buildings and transportation are inaccessible to people with mobility impairments.   
• There are local stores in the Philippines that sell durable medical equipment. Some pharmacies also carry limited medical supplies and equipment. 
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs. 

Students 

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.

Women travelers   

• Review our information for Women Travelers.  
• Review our information on Marriage.  
• Review our information for Victims of Crime. 

Human rights 

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling. 

Health

Health resources 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Philippines Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.  

• CDC Medical Tourism information  
• World Health Organization 
• Medicine and Health 
• Travel Insurance 

Emergency phone numbers 

• Dial 911 for emergency medical services. 

Ambulance services 

Ambulance services are not widely available.  

• Training and response time of emergency responders may be poor.   
• Ambulances are not staffed with trained paramedics. They often have little or no medical equipment. 

Medical payments and insurance 

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan includes any medical expenses coverage abroad. Most U.S. plans do not.  

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills. 
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad. 
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance. 
• Medical care is not free in the Philippines. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility. 
• Some care providers require cash payments up front before providing care.  Some require cash and do not accept credit cards. 
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. 
• If you purchase supplemental insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from the insurance provider. Follow their instructions for filing claims. 
• For information about TRICARE (a health care program for service members, retirees, and their families), including possible vaccinations, please visit the TRICARE overseas website.  

Vaccinations 

Proof of yellow fever vaccination may be required from travelers arriving from high-risk areas. Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

• CDC Travelers’ Health 
• World Health Organization Travel Advice  

Healthcare facilities  

Health facilities are available throughout the Philippines. It may be hard to find adequate health care in rural areas. 

• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals in the Philippines that accept U.S. patients. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic. 
• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies. Patients may be asked to purchase their own medicines or medical supplies. 
• Hospitals and doctors may require payment upfront prior to service or admission. 
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.  
• Generally, hospitals have minimal staff available overnight. Patients without local families that can stay with them may need to hire a private nurse to attend to them overnight.  
• Patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.  
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities. U.S. citizen travelers or residents who experience mental health crises in the Philippines struggle to find adequate treatment. 

Veterans Affairs (VA) clinic in Manila 

The VA Manila Clinic serves eligible U.S. veterans living in the Philippines. It provides outpatient care and helps with service-connected disabilities only. 

The clinic does not provide:  

• Emergency or trauma care  
• Intensive care  
• Hospital stays  
• Treatment for non-service-connected issues 

For eligibility and services, visit the VA Manila website or call the clinic. 

Prescription medications  

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.  

• Review official information before you travel to ensure your medication is legal in the Philippines.  
• Medical marijuana is illegal in the Philippines. Do not travel to the Philippines with any cannabis-derived product, even if prescribed by a doctor. 
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals are usually easy to buy with few controls.  
• Counterfeit medication is common and may not work, have the wrong strength, or have dangerous ingredients. You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places. 

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States.  If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.  

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.  

For more information:  

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection  
• Food and Drug Administration 

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and surrogacy 

If you are considering traveling to the Philippines to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad. 

• Surrogacy is largely unregulated in the Philippines with no clear legal protections for foreign intended parents. Surrogacy agreements may not be enforced by courts in the Philippines. 
• If you decide to pursue parenthood in the Philippines via ART with a surrogate, consider hiring a reputable local attorney and be prepared for long and unexpected delays with local authorities while documenting your child’s birth or citizenship status. Be aware that individuals who attempt to circumvent local law risk legal consequences

Water quality and food safety  

• Tap water is not safe to drink in any part of the Philippines.  
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact. 
• You may want to request no ice in your drinks since it may be made using tap water.  
• Eating uncooked vegetables and fruits can make you sick. 
• Make water safe by filtering, boiling, disinfecting, or distilling.  
• Impure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery. 

Air quality 

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.  

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in the Philippines. 
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.  
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.  
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page. 

Transportation

Road conditions and safety 

Driving in the Philippines is challenging and can be unsafe, especially for those unfamiliar with local conditions.   

• Vehicle traffic is dense and unpredictable. Many vehicles do not follow safety standards.  
• Many drivers do not follow traffic laws. Motorcycles and scooters commonly drive between lanes, on shoulders, and in the opposite lane of traffic. 
• Many roads, including major thoroughfares in large cities, lack signs and lane markings.  Navigation can be difficult, even with GPS. 
• Avoid driving off highways and other paved roads, especially at night.  
• Drivers often ignore or do not yield to emergency vehicles. This may delay their arrival at the scene of an accident. 
• Be extra vigilant when crossing the street. Do not expect vehicles to stop for pedestrians  

Traffic laws   

Your U.S. driver's license is recognized in the Philippines, though restrictions apply. Review official information from the Philippines Land Transportation Office. 

• If you are involved in an accident, contact the local police. Stay inside your car until the police arrive before engaging the other driver. Do not attempt to negotiate with drivers until police arrive.  
• Drivers who are involved in a traffic accident may be detained by police, even if not at fault. Police may transport drivers to the police station while investigating the accident. The investigation period may take hours or longer. The driver can expect to remain in police custody. Remain calm and follow instructions from local authorities. 
• Road rage incidents are common and can result in injury or death. Visitors should avoid confrontation and seek to de-escalate. 
• Traffic police may attempt to collect bribes from motorists. 

Taxis and ride-shares 

U.S. mission personnel are prohibited from using shared taxis due to security concerns. Metered taxis and ridesharing services are permitted. 

• Rideshare applications are safe and widely used in Metro Manila and Cebu.     
• Availability of rideshare vehicles may be restricted during rush hour, holidays, late nights, or times of heavy rain. If you plan to use rideshare to travel to a destination, seek local guidance on whether rideshare vehicles will be available at your destination at the time you wish to return. 

Tips for safer travel by taxi 

Where rideshare is not available, follow these guidelines for your safety: 

• Ask hotels, restaurants, or business establishments to call for a reliable taxi service. 
• Do not enter a taxi already occupied by another passenger. 
• Insist that the taxi driver use the meter to record your fare. Exit the taxi if the driver refuses. 
• Take a photo of the license plate number before getting in.

Public and commercial transportation  

• U.S. embassy personnel are not permitted to use public buses or light rail due to security concerns. Regional buses are permitted. 
• U.S. embassy personnel are strongly advised against using inter-island ferry services unless no alternatives exist. There have been many ferry boat accidents, some with significant loss of life. 
• Safety regulations regarding public transit vehicle maintenance and operations may be weak or weakly enforced. U.S. citizens should exercise caution while traveling by public transportation.  
• Avoid overcrowded or unsafe transport.  
• Visit the website of the Philippines’ Department of Transportation.   
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.  

Aviation safety oversight  

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that the Philippines’ Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program. 

Maritime travel 

Mariners and passengers planning travel to the Philippines should check the following:   

• U.S. Maritime Advisories  
• U.S. Maritime Alerts  
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings   
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons  

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

The Philippines is one of the most natural-disaster-prone countries in the world. Earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions happen often. 

Typhoons and flooding 

Typhoons (also called hurricanes or cyclones) and heavy rain are common. These storms cause severe flooding and mudslides.  

• People die from severe weather incidents every year. 
• Most typhoons happen between July and November, but they can occur anytime. 

Earthquakes and tsunamis 

U.S. citizens should follow the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) for reliable, timely information on earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic events.   

Safety tips:  

• Follow the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) for reliable, timey information on severe weather. 
• Sign up with your local government office (barangay) so they know you’re there during emergencies. Disaster response is handled at the local level. 
• Follow local social media pages. Many cities use Facebook to share emergency information. 
• Register with STEP. Sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive important alerts. This helps the U.S. embassy in locating you in the event of a major disaster.  

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources 

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad. 

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married. 
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad. 
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service. 
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits. 
• U.S. citizens living in the Philippines should ensure they have local health insurance. The U.S. embassy cannot pay medical bills. The VA clinic cannot provide trauma services, intensive care, or treat conditions that are not service connected. 
• U.S. citizens should maintain legal status by renewing their visa or pursuing permanent residency. Review official information from the Bureau of Immigration (tourist, spouse, working visas) and the Philippine Retirement Authority (retiree visas).   
• U.S. citizens without legal status are subject to detention and deportation, even if they have not committed a crime. 
• U.S. citizens living in the Philippines should work with a local lawyer to establish a local will. Without a local will and advanced directives, hospitals, authorities, and the U.S. embassy must rely on your legal next-of-kin for decision-making on medical care if you become incapacitated and disposition of your remains if you die. 

Embassies and consulates