Philippines

Overview

The Philippines will observe Rizal Day on Tuesday, December 30, commemorating the death of national hero Dr. Jose P. Rizal. Civil society organizations may hold pocket protests with an estimated 100 to 1,000 attendees on this day.

New Zealanders in the Philippines are advised to exercise caution near places of mass gatherings and to anticipate moderate to significant traffic disruptions should protests occur on this day.

Philippines Officials have warned that foreigners attending public protest or political rallies may lead to detention and deportation. 

There are more significant safety or security concerns in the Philippines than you would usually find in New Zealand. Terrorist attacks have happened, and there is also a threat of kidnapping and violent crime.

Other things that New Zealanders travelling or living in the Philippines should be aware of are:

• Crime—watch out for petty crime, such as theft and drink-spiking, especially in urban centres and at night. Gun ownership is widespread and poorly regulated. Drive-by robberies (armed assailants riding tandem on motor scooter) are common and considered opportunistic, targeting victims walking alone and/or on streets with low foot-traffic, carrying bags, phones etc that are considered as easy targets. 
• Kidnapping—there is an ongoing threat of kidnapping throughout the Philippines, on land and at sea.  
• Civil unrest—demonstrations and protests are common and occasionally cause transport issues.
• Natural disasters and severe weather—typhoon season usually runs from June until December, with around 20 typhoons each year. Flooding and landslides can occur. The Philippines is located in an active seismic zone, and is prone to volcanic activity and earthquakes.

New Zealanders travelling or living in the Philippines should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air.

See below for detailed travel advice.

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