Tourist Scams in Philippines — Safety Guide 2026
Philippines has 58+ documented tourist scams across 5 cities in our database. Scam activity is rated moderate. The most common risks are tour & activities, taxi & transport, street scams.
Overall risk
Moderate
Scams documented
58+
Cities covered
5
High severity
20
All 5 covered cities in Philippines
Most common scam types in Philippines
Tour & Activities
12 reports
Taxi & Transport
9 reports
Street Scams
8 reports
Money & ATM Scams
7 reports
Philippines travel safety questions
Is Philippines safe for tourists?
Philippines is visited by millions of tourists every year and is generally safe with preparation. Our database documents 58+ tourist scams across 5 cities in Philippines. Scam activity is rated moderate overall. The most common risks are tour & activities, taxi & transport, street scams scams. Reviewing the specific warnings for your destination before you travel significantly reduces your risk.
What are the most common tourist scams in Philippines?
The most frequently documented tourist scams in Philippines are Tour & Activities, Taxi & Transport, Street Scams, Money & ATM Scams. Palawan has the highest documented scam count with 16 reported incidents. Scam operators typically target tourists near transit hubs, major attractions, and busy markets.
Which city in Philippines has the most tourist scams?
Palawan has the highest number of documented tourist scams in Philippines with 16 recorded incidents in our database. Other cities with significant scam activity include Manila and Cebu.
How can I stay safe from scams in Philippines?
The most effective protection in Philippines is knowing the specific scams used before you arrive. Key precautions: use app-based transport instead of street taxis, verify prices before agreeing to any service, keep valuables secured in crowded areas, and be cautious of unsolicited help or attention from strangers near tourist sites. Review the detailed warnings for each city you plan to visit.
Editorial note: Scam warnings for Philippines are compiled from government travel advisories (US State Dept, UK FCDO, Australian DFAT), verified news sources, and traveler reports. Read our methodology →
Quick stats