The short answer: the parts of the Philippines that tourists actually visit — Manila's Makati and BGC, Cebu, Palawan, Bohol, Siargao — are largely safe. The real risks are less about crime and more about nature: typhoons, sea currents and scooter accidents.
Which regions to avoid
Western Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago are not tourist routes and carry travel warnings. Tourist Philippines sits far from these areas.
Practical safety tips
Use Grab instead of street taxis, keep your phone out of sight in crowds, and follow PAGASA weather warnings during typhoon season (June–November).