Safety, Criminology & No-Go Zones in the Philippines (2025)

The Philippines is welcoming and vast. Like everywhere, some areas are not recommended due to organized crime and kidnapping risks. Here is a clear, updated and actionable summary.

Key Takeaways

Areas to avoid: the Sulu archipelago (Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi) and parts of Mindanao (west/central), including the Zamboanga peninsula and the Sulu Sea.

Risks mentioned by several governments: crime, terrorism, kidnappings (on land and at sea), local instability and demonstrations that may escalate.

The rest of the country (Manila, Cebu, Palawan, Bohol, Siargao) is generally accessible with normal caution.

Common sense: avoid isolation, don't display valuables, get local information, prefer official transportation.

No-Go Zones (Not Recommended)

Sulu Archipelago (South)

Several authorities (travel.state.gov, gov.uk, smartraveller.gov.au, travel.gc.ca) indicate a high threat level: crime, armed groups, kidnapping risks, including at sea. Tourism is strongly discouraged.

Parts of Mindanao (West/Central) and Zamboanga

Travel advisories point to pockets of instability in western and central Mindanao, particularly the Zamboanga peninsula and some coastal areas of the Sulu Sea. Avoid these areas unless you have compelling professional reasons and security guarantees.

Public Gatherings and Demonstrations

Even outside the above zones, gatherings can cause blockages, tensions and police interventions. Avoid them and follow local instructions.

Practical Tips to Reduce Risks

1. Get local information (hotel, expats, authorities) before any travel outside known circuits.
2. Official transportation: recognized companies, identified taxis/ride-hailing, no isolated night trips.
3. Low profile: no visible valuables, no large amounts of cash, digital copies of documents.
4. Itineraries: prefer Palawan (Puerto Princesa, El Nido), Bohol (Chocolate Hills), Cebu (city and nearby islands) and Manila (central districts).
5. Avoid the sea in the Sulu Sea near Sulu/Zamboanga in small private boats.
6. Insurance: verify coverage (theft, assault, medical evacuation).
7. Stay connected: local SIM, itinerary sharing, emergency contact points.

Generally Accessible Regions (With Normal Caution)

Metro Manila, Cebu and major tourist areas (Palawan, Bohol, Siargao) welcome millions of visitors. Follow the usual precautions of a large Asian city: vigilance at night, official taxis, known areas. To prepare your installation, see our page on the cost of living.

Quick Safety Checklist (Tourist/Expat)

Itinerary and accommodation booked in advance (see our housing page).

Copy of documents and insurance up to date.

No ostentatious items (luxury watches, large cameras on the street).

Withdrawals in shopping malls or banks, not on isolated streets.

Avoid excessive alcohol/isolation; travel accompanied at night.

Official Sources (Traveler References)

United States: travel.state.gov (Philippines)

United Kingdom: gov.uk (Foreign travel advice – Philippines)

Australia: smartraveller.gov.au (Philippines)

Canada: travel.gc.ca (Travel Advisories – Philippines)

New Zealand: safetravel.govt.nz (Philippines)

These advisories evolve: check the most recent version before your departure.

Conclusion

No-go zones are concentrated in the Sulu archipelago and parts of Mindanao (west/central, Zamboanga). The rest of the country offers great options for traveling, provided you apply simple rules: local information, safe itineraries, low profile and official transportation. To get started smoothly, check our preparation guides and the different visas available.