Emergency Help Abroad  –  The Philippines

Crime & Legal Awareness

A concise overview of the key laws, legal expectations and enforcement practices travellers should understand before visiting The Philippines — including behaviours that may be acceptable in the UK but carry stricter penalties or different interpretations abroad.

1. STRICT DRUG, WEAPON & ALCOHOL LAWS

• Penalties for drug possession, use or trafficking are extremely severe and can include long prison sentences.

• Carrying weapons, including knives and pepper spray, is restricted and may lead to arrest.

• Public intoxication can attract negative attention from authorities.

• Drink-driving laws are enforced and carry heavy penalties.

• Attempting to bring illegal substances into the country can result in immediate arrest.

2. RESPECT FOR CULTURE, PUBLIC MORALS & ENVIRONMENT

• Modest dress is expected in churches and traditional villages.

• Disrespectful behaviour toward religious symbols or ceremonies is taken seriously.

• Littering is prohibited — fines apply in many regions.

• Damaging coral reefs, marine habitats or protected landscapes is illegal.

• Graffiti or vandalism of public property carries penalties.

3. PUBLIC BEHAVIOUR & CIVIL ORDER

• Police may request ID — keep your passport or a copy with you.

• Petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag-snatching happens in busy areas.

• Avoid walking alone late at night in isolated places.

• Participation in political demonstrations is strongly discouraged for foreigners.

• Bribery is illegal and can lead to serious consequences.

4. TRAVEL, TRANSPORT & ADMINISTRATIVE OFFENCES

• Road conditions vary and traffic accidents are common.

• Wearing helmets on motorbikes and scooters is compulsory.

• Using unlicensed taxis or tricycles may be unsafe — choose authorised providers.

• Overstaying your visa can result in fines or detention.

• Entering restricted areas, especially military or coastal zones, is prohibited.

5. PHOTOGRAPHY, DRONE & SECURITY RESTRICTIONS

• Drone use requires registration and is banned in some areas.

• Photographing military sites, government buildings or security forces is prohibited.

• Some churches and cultural sites may restrict photography.

• Always ask permission before taking close-up photos of individuals.

6. ENVIRONMENTAL & SAFETY LAWS

• Removing coral, shells or sand from beaches and protected areas is illegal.

• Feeding wildlife or marine animals is prohibited in many locations.

• Swimming in unpatrolled beaches or areas with strong currents can be dangerous.

• Hiking in closed trails or volcanic zones without guides is prohibited.

• Starting fires in protected forests or islands is forbidden.

7. RESPECT FOR NATURE, CULTURE & HERITAGE SITES

• Damaging heritage sites, caves or archaeological areas is illegal.

• Removing artefacts from indigenous or heritage areas is prohibited.

• Entering sacred tribal lands without permission is forbidden.

• Buying souvenirs made from endangered species is illegal.

What You Shouldn’t Do - Behaviours Travellers Should Avoid.

These are important behaviours and actions to avoid to stay respectful, safe and aligned with local expectations. Remember that what feels acceptable or low-key in the UK may be considered abrupt, disrespectful or inappropriate in the Philippines.

• Don’t underestimate typhoon and monsoon warnings, especially when travelling by boat.

• Don’t accept rides on unregulated motorbikes (habal-habal) unless using known or recommended drivers.

• Don’t swim outside designated areas, where strong currents and jellyfish may be present.

• Don’t show public affection excessively, as it may attract attention in conservative areas.

• Don’t handle coral, starfish or marine wildlife, which is damaging and often illegal.

• Don’t leave belongings unattended on beaches, where opportunistic theft can occur.

• Don’t drink tap water, and use bottled or purified options instead.

• Don’t disrespect churches or religious ceremonies, by wearing revealing clothing or taking intrusive photos.

• Don’t walk alone in poorly lit areas at night, especially in unfamiliar districts.

• Don’t engage in aggressive bargaining, as friendly negotiation is the norm.

• Don’t ignore local advice about ferry safety, particularly during rough weather.

• Don’t bring large plastic bags to protected islands, where bans may apply.

• Don’t use drones without checking regulations, especially near airports or marine sanctuaries.

• Don’t assume all ATMs have cash, especially on remote islands.

• Don’t approach stray animals, due to the risk of rabies.

• Don’t take photos of military sites or checkpoints, which may be restricted.

• Don’t underestimate heat and humidity, especially during hikes.

• Don’t trust extremely cheap tours, which may lack safety standards.

• Don’t ignore earthquake or volcanic alerts, particularly in active regions.

• Don’t litter on beaches or islands, as many areas struggle with waste management.