Philippines
Pilipinas
Pearl of the Orient Seas
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 Fees: 0-20 PHP
- • Cash preferred outside cities
- • ATMs widely available
- • Tip 10% in restaurants
Internet & Connectivity
- • Globe
- • Smart
- • Sun - Tourist SIM: ₱300-800
Popular Apps
Safety Index
Crime Overview
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
Night Safety
Dress Code
Casual - modest at churches
Harassment Risk
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
Sinulog
culturalCebu's biggest festival
Impact: Very crowded
Ati-Atihan
culturalAklan's tribal festival
Impact: Festive atmosphere