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Philippines

Pilipinas

Pearl of the Orient Seas

Last updated: 2025-03-25
7/10

Essential Phrases

Hello

Kumusta

Koo-moos-ta

Thank you

Salamat

Sah-lah-mat

Yes

Oo

Oh-oh

No

Hindi

Hin-dee

Excuse me

Pasensya na

Pa-sen-sya na

Sorry

Pasensya

Pa-sen-sya

Please

Paki

Pah-kee

Help!

Tulong!

Too-long

Where is...?

Nasaan...?

Nah-saan

How much?

Magkano?

Mag-kah-noh

Cheers!

Mabuhay!

Mah-boo-hai

Goodbye

Paalam

Pa-ah-lam

Emergency Contacts

Police

911

Emergency

Ambulance

911

Medical emergency

Fire

911

Fire

Tourist Police

1346

Tourist Police (Manila)

US Embassy Manila

+63 2 301-2000

1201 Roxas Boulevard, Manila

Money & ATM Reality

Currency

Philippine Peso

PHP

1 USD ≈ 56 PHP (approximate)

ATM & Card Access

ATM Availabilitywidespread
Card Acceptancemoderate
Cash PreferredYes

ATM Fees: 0-20 PHP

  • • Cash preferred outside cities
  • • ATMs widely available
  • • Tip 10% in restaurants

Internet & Connectivity

Free WiFimoderate
SIM Card Tips
  • • Globe
  • • Smart
  • • Sun - Tourist SIM: ₱300-800

Popular Apps

FacebookViberGoogle MapsGrab

Safety Index

7
Overall
/ 10
Based on Global Peace Index & US Dept of State Travel Advisories

Crime Overview

Petty Theftmoderate
Violent Crimelow

Transportation

Use registered jeepsneys/taxis - traffic chaotic

Common Scams

  • •Taxi overcharging
  • •Beach scams

Areas to Avoid

  • • Mindanao (check advisories)
  • • Remote areas at night

Natural Disaster Risks

  • • Typhoons (July-Nov)
  • • Earthquakes

Note: Safety ratings are based on Global Peace Index, US Department of State Travel Advisories, and local government sources. Ratings are subjective and should be used as a general guideline only. Always verify current travel advisories before your trip.

Solo Women Travelers

7
Overall
/ 10
Based on solo female traveler reviews & government advisories

Night Safety

safe

Dress Code

Casual - modest at churches

Harassment Risk

rare

Tips

  • •Very friendly locals
  • •Jeepneys can be crowded

Note:Women safety ratings are based on solo female traveler experiences, TripAdvisor reviews, and US Department of State advisories. Every woman's experience may vary. Trust your instincts and research specific destinations.

Festivals & Events

January• 3rd Sunday

Sinulog

cultural

Cebu's biggest festival

Impact:Very crowded
January• 3rd Sunday

Ati-Atihan

cultural

Aklan's tribal festival

Impact:Festive atmosphere

Offline Survival Kit

Documents

Passport (valid 6+ months)
Travel insurance

Apps

Google Maps
Grab
Viber

Downloads

Island hopping schedules

Essentials

Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Reusable water bottle

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Philippines safe for tourists?
Philippines has an overall safety rating of 7/10, making it generally safe for tourists. Petty theft is moderate and violent crime is low. Areas to be cautious in include: Mindanao (check advisories); Remote areas at night. Always stay aware of your surroundings and take standard travel precautions.
Is Philippines safe for solo female travelers?
Philippines has a women's safety rating of 7/10, making it moderately safe for solo female travelers. Night safety is rated as "safe" and harassment is rare. Very friendly locals
Do I need a VPN in Philippines?
A VPN is not strictly necessary, but still useful for Philippines. There are no significant internet restrictions. Popular apps include Facebook, Viber, Google Maps.
What scams should I watch out for in Philippines?
Common scams in Philippines include: Taxi overcharging; Beach scams. Always use reputable services, agree on prices before committing, and trust your instincts if something feels off.
Should I use cash or card in Philippines?
Cash is preferred in many places in Philippines. The currency is Philippine Peso (PHP). Card acceptance is moderate - carry cash as backup. Cash preferred outside cities
What are the emergency numbers in Philippines?
Emergency numbers in Philippines: Police: 911. Ambulance: 911. Fire: 911. Tourist Police: 1346. The US Embassy in Philippines (US Embassy Manila) can be reached at +63 2 301-2000.