Is the Philippines safe for American travelers?
Every fact links to its source. Schedules, fees and prices change, so confirm with the linked operator or official site before you book. Last checked: Oct 17, 2026.
The short answer
- The State Department rates the Philippines Level 2: Exercise increased caution (issued September 1, 2026), citing crime, terrorism, unrest and kidnapping. Some areas carry higher levels. State Dept travel advisory
Regions with higher advisory levels
- Level 4, do not travel: the Sulu Archipelago, including the southern Sulu Sea, and Marawi City in Mindanao. State Dept travel advisory
- Level 3, reconsider travel: Mindanao, except the Davao City central business district and airport, Davao del Norte, the Dinagat Islands, Samal Island, Siargao Island and a few listed routes and islands. State Dept travel advisory
- The advisory also urges increased caution in rural and remote parts of Leyte, Mindoro, Negros and Samar due to insurgent activity. State Dept travel advisory
- Main tourist areas covered on this site (Manila, Palawan, Boracay, Bohol, Siargao) are not in the Level 3 or 4 areas, but check the current advisory before booking.
Common risks the State Dept describes
- Pickpocketing, internet scams and card fraud are common; violent crime also occurs. State Dept travel advisory
- Taxi scams at international airports, and robberies of travelers shortly after leaving NAIA. It suggests ride-share apps and the free inter-terminal shuttle. State Dept travel advisory · See our NAIA guide.
- Strangers have drugged and robbed solo travelers; don't accept food, drinks or rides from strangers. Romance and money scams are common. State Dept travel advisory
- Tour and boat operators do not always follow safety rules; wear life jackets and pick another company if gear is missing. State Dept travel advisory
- Zero tolerance for drugs, including marijuana and CBD products, even with a US prescription. State Dept travel advisory
FAQ
- What is the US travel advisory for the Philippines?
Level 2, Exercise increased caution (issued September 1, 2026), due to crime, terrorism, unrest and kidnapping. State Dept travel advisory - Where should Americans not travel?
The State Dept says do not travel to the Sulu Archipelago (including the southern Sulu Sea) or Marawi City, and to reconsider travel to most of Mindanao, with listed exceptions such as Siargao, Samal Island and central Davao City. State Dept travel advisory - Are Palawan, Boracay, Bohol and Manila under the Level 2 advisory?
They are not among the Level 3 or 4 areas named in the advisory, so the country-wide Level 2 applies. Read the full advisory before you go. State Dept travel advisory - What number do I call in an emergency?
Dial 911 in the Philippines. The US Embassy in Manila is at +63-2-5301-2000. State Dept
