Is Davao Safe in March 2026?

Taxi drivers at Francisco Bangoy International Airport refuse to use meters and quote fixed fares that are three to five times higher than metered rates into the city center. Some drivers claim the meter is broken or that fixed airport rates are legally mandated, which is false. Unlicensed colorum taxis also operate outside the official taxi queue.

How to avoid: Use the official airport taxi counter inside the arrivals terminal, which uses metered fares. Alternatively, book a Grab ride from inside the terminal using the app. Avoid drivers who approach you before you reach the official queue.

Unlicensed agencies in Davao City sell Mount Apo climbing packages that lack proper permits, certified guides, or emergency equipment. Some packages advertise inclusive prices then add fees for park entrance, porter services, and equipment rental on the day of the climb. Poorly equipped guides have led groups onto dangerous routes during bad weather.

How to avoid: Book only through DENR-accredited tour operators or directly through the Mount Apo Natural Park office. Verify that your package includes official park permits and that your guide holds DENR certification. Check that emergency communication equipment is included.

At Aldevinco Shopping Center on CM Recto Avenue, vendors selling indigenous crafts and souvenirs frequently employ pressure tactics and add items to your selection without consent. Visitors who admire a piece may find it wrapped and handed to them as if already purchased. Some stalls claim their jewelry contains genuine Mindanao gemstones when the stones are glass or synthetic.

How to avoid: Handle items minimally and state clearly you are browsing before touching anything. Verify any gemstone claims with an independent jeweler before paying premiums for supposedly authentic stones.

Boat operators and tour agencies near the Santa Ana Wharf sell island-hopping packages to Samal Island at inflated tourist prices. Packages often omit the mandatory ferry fee, entrance fees for Paradise Island Park, and boat transfer charges between beaches, which are added on the day. Some operators substitute lower-quality boats than advertised.

How to avoid: Book Samal Island tours through your hotel or a verified agency on Klook. Confirm in writing exactly what is included, especially ferry transfers and park entrance fees. Compare prices at the Santa Ana Wharf directly with at least two operators before booking.

At Francisco Bangoy International Airport, fixers approach arriving passengers in the baggage claim and arrival areas offering hotel transfers, city tours, and SIM cards at tourist rates. Their vehicle transfers to hotels in the Lanang district or downtown Davao often cost double the standard rate, and their SIM cards are frequently resold at inflated margins.

How to avoid: Arrange airport transfers through your hotel in advance or use the official airport taxi queue outside arrivals. Buy SIM cards from official Globe or Smart retail outlets in the city, not from fixers.