GOV.UK
Foreign travel advice
Philippines
Summary
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advise against all travel to western and central Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago because of terrorist activity and clashes between the military and insurgent groups. The FCO advise against all but essential travel to the remainder of Mindanao (excluding Camiguin, Dinagat and Siargao Islands) due to the threat of terrorism.
Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in the Philippines. Terrorist groups have the intent and capability to carry out attacks at any time and anywhere in the country, including in the capital Manila and in places visited by foreigners, such as airports, shopping malls, public transport, including the metro system, and places of worship. Attacks have been carried out using small arms and improvised explosive devices including both vehicle and personnel borne. You should remain vigilant at all times and report anything suspicious to the local authorities.
It’s likely that terrorist groups continue to plan kidnap operations against western nationals in the Philippines, both on land and at sea, but this is particularly acute in Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago. See Terrorism
Martial law is in place across the whole of Mindanao until 31 December 2019. Monitor media reporting and follow the instructions of local authorities. A ‘state of national emergency on account of lawless violence’ remains in place across the rest of the country. Expect random checkpoints, security patrols and a more visible routine security presence. You should co-operate with the Philippine authorities and allow extra time to pass through security checks. Make sure you carry a form of identification with you.
There’s a high incidence of street crime and robbery throughout the Philippines. You should take sensible precautions. See Crime
Prison sentences in the Philippines are severe. The judicial system can result in long-term detention until a court hearing takes place. Detention facilities are far below UK standards. Don’t become involved with drugs of any kind. Penalties for importing and using illegal drugs are particularly severe. See Local laws and customs
The Philippines is in an active earthquake zone and has numerous volcanoes. The country is also affected by around 20 typhoons each year, most of which occur between June and December. See See Natural disasters
Boracay island reopened to visitors in October 2018 after a six-month closure for environmental improvements. Visitors to the island must have evidence of a confirmed booking with an accredited hotel in order to be allowed entry to the island. You should take local advice on documentation and port of entry to the island before you travel.
The Philippines’ ferry and passenger boat network has a poor record of maritime safety. You should exercise caution when considering travel by inter-island ferries and avoid overcrowded boats. Accidents are more frequent during the rainy season between June and December when storms can develop quickly. See Sea travel
The Philippines Department of Health (DoH) declared a national dengue epidemic on 6 August 2019. Continue to follow NaTHNaC advice and take precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes
If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission. Consular support is severely limited in parts of the Philippines where we advise against travel, and limited in the areas we advise against all but essential travel. Full consular support is available in all other areas.
The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.
Over 200,000 British Nationals visited the Philippines in 2017. Most visits are trouble-free.
Take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before you travel.