Can I travel to Mindanao – Is it safe?
Update: If you are planning to travel to Mindanao
Every day, I receive many e-mails asking the same question – “Is it safe to go to Mindanao?” No single answer can be correct for each time the question is asked, but let me try to address the issue on this post.
For the most part, Mindanao is a safe destination for your travel. There are some serious exceptions, though. Parts of Mindanao are extremely dangerous, while the majority of the island is fairly safe. One thing to remember is that in today’s world, there is no place on the entire earth that is perfectly safe. No matter where you go you could be hit with crime, terrorism, natural disaster or some other calamity. This is true in Mindanao as well.
Some places in Mindanao are very dangerous and should be avoided by the average tourist. The United States and other nations have issued travel advisories warning their citizens that travel to Mindanao is dangerous, and perhaps should be avoided altogether. Personally, I feel that in many ways these warnings are overblown, and were mostly issued by people who have never been to Mindanao, and also know little about the place. As an example, I have lived in Southern Mindanao (General Santos and Davao Cities) for six years now, and have never felt that I was in any danger at all. But, I also know that if I went to Basilan, Sulu, or even Cotabato City, I would have to exercise caution. or avoid those areas altogether. There are some places that just are not suitable for tourism. At this point in time, I would say that the entire ARMM (Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao) is in that category. Others may disagree, but this is just my opinion.
While this is not a widely known fact, at most times there are United States troops on the ground in parts of Mindanao. I have seen American troops here with my own eyes, so I know they are here, and personally I am happy that they are here in Mindanao. Now, under the Philippine Constitution, foreign troops are not allowed to operate in the Philippines. They can only be here in a training capacity. Now, you can make your own decision. The photo of the Humvee with the soldiers on patrol is of US troops patrolling in Jolo, an Abu Sayyaf stronghold. Does it look like training? All I can say is that I hope that the training mission is very successful.
Now, as I said earlier, terrorism and war is not a huge concern, because places that have those problems are very isolated and few. However, there are many things that can still cause problems on your trip. People who went to Thailand for Christmas of 2004 saw that first hand when the Tsunami hit them. There are earthquakes, floods and such around Mindanao virtually all the time. But, again, it is not the entire island that is hit, only small areas. No matter where you are, in Los Angeles, London or Mindanao, you can have your day spoiled by a pickpocket, right? The key is, use common sense wherever you go. If you are in Mindanao and concerned for your safety, don’t go out on the town until 3am, that could lead to trouble anywhere you go. If it is night time, and you are out on the town, if you see an alley way with a bunch of thugs hanging around, you can bet that this is not a good place for you to explore. Move on to another area! The key point here is this – Use Common Sense!
So, in my opinion, it is safe to go to Mindanao. It’s a beautiful place, I am sure that coming here for a visit will be something you will remember fondly for a lifetime. But, to make sure those memories are fond, do a little research before you come! Check out and see if the city you are planning to visit is safe. Don’t go around flashing a lot of money (here in the Philippines, even $20 is a lot of money to many people). Be aware of what is going on around you. Don’t be careless or stupid! This is just good advice, even if you were going to vacation in Disneyland.
Come visit in Mindanao! Enjoy your stay! If you have a question or concern about a specific area, e-mail me and and I will send you a full copy of our Mindanao.com Travel Advisory, which is updated whenever the safety situation changes. If you decide that you want a more detailed safety evaluation of the area you plan to visit, we can provide that for you as well.
I cannot and will not guarantee your safety, but I am happy to give my advice. The final decision is yours. When it comes to advice, remember that actions can speak louder than words…. and I live here! That should say something.
nice article, bob. davao is very safe. i’ve entertained many foreign(american) and domestic visitors in the city. they have been on overnight and day hikes on the city outskirts (ipol, mt apo,samal island etc). and simply hung out in the city (nightlife and daytrips). 2 americans even extended their trips up to over a year to enjoy the rest of mindanao. just a matter of common sense and getting suggestion from the locals they trust.
Very helpful article! I’m planning a trip to Bukidnon now and will be staying there for 2 weeks. I have traveled extensively, but this will be my first trip to Mindanao. I will use your advise. Thanks
Thanks Bob! I’ve been away from Koronadal for years. Though I grew up in that place yet I feel unsecure each time I come for a visit. NY has been home for quite some time now and I guess “NY state of mind” has gone into my head. To survive in the jungles of NY you have to be paranoid or you’re easy pick’n from vultures that abound in the city. I carry the same attitude whem I’m in Koronadal and it spoils my vacation. Always on the lookout for unwanted intrusion into one’s being.Afraid of being a “victim”.
Come December,the air of Koronadal will fill my lungs once again.
I was just wounding if Gingoog city in mindanao is ok to visit. I am a staff seargeant in the us army acitve. and metter someone that i would like to visit over there. anything anyone could tell me about mindanao and gingoog city would be very apprciative. thanks scott
Hi Scott – Gingoog is a safe area, you should not experience any problems there as long as you just use common sense.
Exacto!
It don’t matter if you’re in Mindanao,New York or Toronto. If you’re too careless and don’t use common sense at all then danger is right behind you. Don’t walk around unsafe areas especially by yourself, always know where you’re goin or take someone with you who knows where the dangers are to keep you alarmed.
Danger can be anywhere, right to your backyard. keep that in mind tourist…
Nice site, good commonsense article. I was in Marihatag in Surigao del Sur last February/March, and it seemed perfectly safe.
Although I admit, it was slightly unsettling to have a family friend point out communist group’s and other criminal gang’s hideouts on the way to Barobo. But, his point was that if you stay out of their way, they’ll mostly stay out of yours. And, it wasn’t like the road was dotted with them; on the contrary, it was only a couple or three locations he pointed out. Given the distance, that’s not bad at all; some inner cities in the US have that many criminal areas per block.
So, yes, Mindanao is by and large safe. As long as you know your area, stay out of the known (for lack of a better term) bad spots, and use common sense in how you behave.
—
Small aside, re that picture of the US soldiers: It may not look much like training, but they don’t look like they’re expecting a whole lot of trouble either. No body armor, no kevlar covers, not even a full squad on foot. If it was a patrol, the unit must’ve felt relatively safe.
Excellent Bob,
A very informative blog regarding security and safety in Mindanao, As I am more familiar with Visayas, and not Mindanao, many of my readers ask about safety in Mindanao, I will link to your blog for reference, you are quite right of course, we live now in a world of risk, as I live in London, we live with terrorism all the time, just last year we had the July 7th Bombings, home grown Muslim terrorists were involved, as you say, its better to use common sense, you don’t go out flashing cash, twiddling your digital camera around your fingers, in any downtown area of the Philippines, but that could also be the same for London, so i find your article very credible, hope to keep in touch with you Bob,
Thanks Pete
Hi Pete – I am happy to know that you found the post to be informative. Overall, if you travel to Mindanao you will find that it is quite peaceful here. There are hotspots, of course, but for the most part, it’s a quiet place that most people will find enjoyable and attractive for repeat visits.
Hello Bob, i would like to know about Ozamiz City as i have many firends there. Is it the safty place?..If i want to visit them, how can i go; by airplane, or Ferry? (i might start from Manila)…Addtionally, is it ok for a girl to travel at Mindanao alone?…..thx
What are your thoughts about the recent bombings in Mindanao? In articles I’ve read from the Manilla Times to the BBC, it has been mentioned that the US Embassy strongly warns agains Westerners and US Citizens traveling to Mindanao at this time. My family and I are planning a trip to Mindanao in November. We’ll be going to Cebu, Cagaya de oro, Kinogitan, etc. What safety precautions should be taken based on recent events? What is the atmosphere like these days? Are there Western tourists there now? Are the threats of bombs fears that people have daily? How readily is access to news?
Hello Lodrew – Thanks for leaving you comment, and for reading the blog!
The US Embassy has been warning for about 10 years now for Americans not to travel to Mindanao, there has been no change in the warnings. Actually, let me make a slight change in that statement…. it is no the US Embassy who issues this warning, it is formulated by the US State Department in Washington DC. The people who formulate this warning have never been here before. I have actually personally discussed this travel advisory with people from the US Embassy in Manila, with US Military personnel here in the Philippines, and others in “official” capacities. Every one of them thinks that the travel warning is not necessary.
Now, given the spate of bombings that have popped up again this past week… Yes, it does mean that you should use caution, but in my opinion it does not mean that you should not come to Mindanao. The areas that have experienced problems are areas of Central Mindanao, places like North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, etc. These places are very far from Cagayan de Oro. I would have no worries in going to CdO, or anywhere in Northern Mindanao. I live in Davao City, which is much closer to the recent bombings, and I am not worried about bombings hitting the city. I have made some modifications in my activities, though. For example, I was scheduled to have been in Kidapawan yesterday, but that is a bit close to the bombings for me, and I elected to postpone that trip.
Based on the plans you have shared with me, Lodrew, I don’t think you should experience any problems. As is outlined in the article about Safety here in Mindanao, use caution, watch what is going on around you, don’t be stupid. You will have a good time if you follow these small precautions.
Bob,
I was fascinated by your article on safety in Mindanao. I am an Englishman who has made four trips there since May 2004 despite the pessimistic advice from our Foreign Office. Risk assessment is something to be taken seriously and in truth there are very few parts of Asia that are totally free from the threat of extremists who see Brits and Americans in particular as prime targets for kidnappings or murder post Iraq. I read up about Abu Sayaff before my first trip but calculated that I would probably be at my most vulnerable when checking in at terminal 3 Heathrow. My scariest moments were on a taxi trip from Cagayan de Oro airport to Ozamis City.The latter stages of this four and a half hour marathon were completed in darkness and punctuated by several road blocks. Fortunately these were manned by the Filipino army as oppposed to terrorists. That was a journey I would not recommend to readers !! Like others I have found Davao to be a safe but exciting city complete with a beautiful airport (albeit to replace the one blown up by terrorists !) and great beaches and malls. I also visited my wife’s hometown of Bislig which has such a wonderful laid back rural atmosphere that it is almost worth that bone shattering five hour trip by road from Davao. I have heard of buses being held up by bandits on that route but we hired a VW minibus and felt perfectly safe.
Bob, thanks for your blog we appreciate it!
Im from London and will be travelling to the Philippines for the first time in 2 weeks(Nov)I will be staying in Davao for the first few days & I have been invited by my girlfriend to visit her and her family over in Pasonanca(Zamboanga City). She tells me that it is a 6hr bus journey between the two cities. After looking on the map I see I will have to journey through Lanao del Sur.Anything I need to watch out for along this route Bob? I asked my gf if she would fly from Davao to Zamboanga City but she is afraid of flying (poor girl) and wants to show me the scenery along the way which I’m sympathetic to! Any advice you or anyone here can offer will be appreciated!
Thanks again from London!
Hello Bob, thanks for the great and informative site. I am travelling to dipolog around christmas for 2 weeks. I will also travel to bohol, and cebu by ferry. Since I will be in the northwestern part of mindanao is this considered safer? I plan to dress casually. I was also planning to buy a digital slr camera, but maybe i should stick to my compact camera, which i will keep in my pocket. I have seen many photos of this beautiful area and wanted a photographic souvenir of my journey there. Thanks, much for your time responding. john
Hi John – I would consider Dipolog safe. Going south from there would not be considered safe, though. If you want to buy a DSLR camera – go for it! I use a Canon Rebel XT myself, and would have no reservations about bringing it to Dipolog. Have fun on your trip!
Bob,
Is it possible for you to forward this to Andy Westmore?
Going to Zamboanga city via Cebu City, in central Philippines, is the safest. Cebu to Zamboanga by aircraft. Zamboanga airport to Pasonanca is a short 30-minute ride on a jeepney or taxi.
Or, from Davao, you can take the boat for a day to Zamboanga.
Hi Bob,
I recently came across this site while searching for info about Mindanao. I’ve read every post listed and found a lot of the replies to very informative for what i’m researching. I’ll be traveling to Mindanao (GenSan and Davao) in the upcoming months to visit my girlfriend. I’m a bit nervous about it being that i’m american and i’m in the military. The recent activity down there doesn’t help either. I can blend into the general public based on my looks but i don’t speak tagalog or the local dialect. I know about being street smart and using common sense when making any plans but is there any extra advice you can offer me? All my filipino friends tell me not to go down there but they have never been there. My girlfriend gets offended when i talk to her about my feeling uneasy. I understand completely because i would probably get mad too if everything everybody ever heard or said about my hometown was bad. She tells me it’s not as bad as everyone thinks. I just want to have fun on my trip and enjoy my stay. Thanks in advance for any advice.
Abbey – there are daily flights from Davao to Zamboanga too. Since he is planning to be in Davao anyway, probably the best option for him would be to just fly from Davao to Zambo.
James – I travel the route from Davao to GenSan and back regularly. That is a very safe route. You should experience no problems at all during that trip.
Your friend is right – Mindanao is not nearly the place that you read about in the papers, or see on tv. You will find it to be quite peaceful when you come here.
Enjoy your trip!
My Chat buddy from Mindanao wants me to go visit her on my vacation to Phils. Im a little nervous about it because my Filipino born friends here in L.A. tell me not to go, because once people see my blonde hair, I will be a target for kidnapping or worse. What do you think?
Hi Brian – Welcome to the Mindanao Blog! Mindanao is a huge place, and saying that you are thinking of going to Mindanao does not give enough information to make a judgment. Most parts of Mindanao are very safe, some parts are very dangerous. Let me know where your “chat buddy” lives, and then I can give you an opinion. I would not put too much stock in what your Filipino friends in LA say, they have probably never been to Mindanao, and don’t know. If you go to Manila and ask people if Mindanao they would travel to Mindanao, I would guess that 90% or more would say that it is too dangerous here. They simply are uninformed, in my opinion.
Greeting; I am looking for info on Virac, Catanduanes. I would like to travel there, to meet my girl and her family, but I have concerns about the safty of my self and her.
I read the weekly paper there, The Catanduanes Tribune,and from what I gather, the NPA is quite active. In reading, it appears, the PNP, have no control and infact are targets for assination. Looking for any info, you can give me concerning,Americans, going there, and perhaps, retiring there. Thanking you inadvance, Don Scott, soon to be retired and thinking of there in the Philippines
Thank you so much for discussing this topic about Mindanao safety. It is really difficult to invite tourists to visit Mindanao even in Cagayan de Oro City. Foreign tourists and even Filipinos still perceive Mindanao as a war zone. Unfortunately media is sometimes to blame. Instead of specifying the province where the incident happened, media would usually use the name Mindanao as a general term. When communist insurgents attack in Luzon provinces near Manila, media would use the specific name of the province instead of saying Luzon Island and dismiss it as an isolated case. Do I sense some bias? I hope through this blog people will realize that Mindanao is not a total war zone, that Mindanao has a lot to offer in terms of tourism and investment.
Once again THANK YOU! and more power to MINDANAO.COM
http://www.freewebs.com/cdoguide
Hi Bob! my name is Leonard, and i have a nice lady in Koronada city, south cotabato Philippines! i really need to know about this area, is it is a safe place to go? or is it i danger point that i should avoid! i have been reading your site, and have been releifed a little about the safty of the area, and about common sense, and i know that you you have mention somethings about Cotabato, Koronadal, i really need your advice on this one, so thank you again, and i appreciate your advice, keep up the good work,
yours, Leonard
Hi Leonard – Koronadal City should not be a problem as far as safety is concerned. In some areas outside the city there is some NPA activity in the area, but I wouldn’t be too concerned on that. NPA activity would be more limited to very rural areas (not near the city), and also the NPA generally does not target foreigners.
Have a good trip!
i AM AMERICAN PLANNING TO VISIT iLIGAN cITY…i NEED A LIST OF iNTERNET cAFE LOCATIONS WITH CONTACT INFORMATION.
Bob,
I am from Nederland and all I can say is General Santos City and Davao is a very safe place to trave.My wife is from Gen. Santos City.
Hi Jos – I agree, GenSan and Davao are both quite safe to visit. Almost all of Mindanao is safe, in fact. There are actually only a few small areas where danger is to be expected.
Hi Bob,
I recently submitted some questions and later found that my posting was deleted. First, I was under the impression that the questions went to your email account and would only be posted if it met certain criteria. When I received no answer to my inbox, I realized that I had been wrong. I would not have mentioned the lady’s last name that I was thinking of visiting. A number of people have mentioned being in a party of 2 or more while visiting Mindanao. Do you see a real problem with a person going solo? I would also like an answer to my other questions but hesitate to air them here. Any help is appreciated. SB
Hi Bob,
I’m interested in making Davao City area part of my destination plans while sailing in and around the Philippines. I am an American and will be coming to the Philippines on my own sailboat. Safety is always a concern when your in any place or part of the world, as well as your own back yard. I’m interested on comments or suggestions on ports and/or areas that would serve as great stop/overs for an extended stay as well as visiting. I have heard very little except stay away if your in your own small craft. I have known several people that have sailed the interior islands and loved them, but have also stayed away from Mindanao. From the information that I’ve been able to find I believe they are missing a great area full of many wonderful places. I’m wondering if anyone reading the blog has any first had advice on cruising different areas around Mindanao. Thanks Dave K
Hi Bob -
Thanks so much for this website!
I am going to see my lady friend in Feb/2007, and we are planning on taking a ferry from Cebu to Ozamiz City, then driving to her hometown of Ramon Magsaysay, which is near Pagadian City. (Or in Pagadian city? I don’t understand PI political divisions yet!) Based on most responses I get from folks in forums, this should be a very safe trip. I assume you agree.
Besides the small islands south of Zamboanga City, what parts of Mindanao do you recommend that a traveler AVOID?
Thanks,
Ken
Hi “Fragile Kano” – yes, I do feel that the trip that you are describing is safe, and you don’t have a lot to worry about. Remember – no place on the earth is perfectly safe, and you can run into troubles at even the most seemingly safe places. Always keep an eye at what is happening around you, be aware of your surroundings, etc.
As for places not to visit, for the casual traveler I would recommend you avoid Basilan, Sulu, Tawi Tawi as you say. Also, you should avoid Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, North Cotabato and maybe some remote parts of the Zamboanga peninsula. These are just my opinions, and are for travelers that are not too experienced.
Enjoy your trip, Ken.
Thanks for the great site Bob. It’s just the kind of information I have been looking for. I have hopes of visiting Butuan City in the future and you have eased my mind a lot about the security question. Thanks again and kepp up the great work. Mike
Hi Mike – Glad to hear that the site was helpful for you! Enjoy your trip to Butuan!
Great informaion on this site. thanks. I have just returned from Pagadian,Molave,Osamis,Dipolog area. No propblems or hassels what so ever! I did very little research and ignorantly went ahead (not so smart) but had a life changing time! Just wanted to add to “Fragile Kano” why not fly to Pagadian with Asian Spirit direct from Manila. They fly 3 times a week. Book through Filipino Travel Center on the internet. Very helpful. This will save you lots of time and bus changes. I wouldnt want to do it alone (not for safty reasones)unless your partner was with you for the first time.
Hi Rich – thanks for the compliment on the site. You are right, another good route would be to fly in on Asian Spirit. I had forgotten that they had opened this route.
Also Bob I wanted to mention that I am starting a service to allow western visitors coming to Mindanao who are landing at either Cagayan or Dipolog airports or getting off a boat in Ozamiz or Dapitan to be picked up by an American guide or at least a driver who speaks fluent English and can be trusted. I’ll inform you as soon as it takes off. I do it now for freinds and many of them have suggested such a service as it will take the fear out of many Mindano travellers. We know the safe roads and destinations and how to deal with roadblocks etc. I’ve taken a bike all over the place and have run into my fair share of Abu Sayyaf and MILF in the mountains. The NPA run many of the smaller roads and mountain regions and I deal with local government. If they use our service we’ll get you and your kids a swim with some giant sea turtles. lol Take care, Respectfully, Raymond
By the way I LOVE your site and the improvements you’ve made and I agree that most people should not be discouraged by the warnings on the US Gov websites. Actually I’ve spent a LOT of time in Manila and Cebu and would feel MUCH safer on northern Mindanao than EITHER of those cities. It is just like living in Chicago, New York City, Detroit or LA.etc There are ares to stay away from.
Hi Bob –
I saw your opinion that Dipolog was a safe destination.
1) What is your opinion on Oroquieta?
2) How about 30 minutes outside Oroquieta into the rural areas to meet my future in-laws?
3) Any reason I shouldn’t fly into Manila then take a SuperFerry to Dipolog then travel to the aforementioned cities by car or bus from there?
Can’t wait to see this beautiful country that you ‘discovered’ so many years ago. Thanks…
Hi Prince – Oroquieta should be safe for you to visit, I would not anticipate any problems. Going out 30 minutes from town is probably OK, but be careful. It also depends on which direction you are headed. Going south of there is more dangerous than other directions, although any direction from town could be dangerous. Let somebody who is from that area be your guide on going out like that.
Regarding you travel route, you could ride the superferry as you say. Keep in mind that it will add 3 to 5 days to your trip, though. If you are here for a limited time, and want to spend time with your friends, I would fly down to Ozamiz then take a bus or car.
Good luck on your trip!
Hello!
I´m from Sweden and wisit the Phillipines 2001.
One week in the northen part of Cebu island (Kawit) and the city of Cebu visiting my wife´s relatives and go to all the turist-traps….
Then one week in Davao or in the outskirt´s of the city (Mintal). More relatives and visiting the Phillipino Eagel-plant, Crocodil Farm and a Beach Resort plus a lot of traveling into the City by Jeepney´s.
And one week in Manilla or in the outskirts of the city. (In Antipolo)Visiting supermarket´s but mostley stay home due to a bad weather. Cat.3 Taifun…..
The only place I fel´t safe where Davao City. The reason? Yes the peple ther had theire juvelires and stuff on. Ring on there fingers, neckless, clock and celluarphones. They where friendly but did not force in to You and no one chouted “Hey Joe!” at You…..
)
I must come back someday.
Hi Roland – I am like you, I prefer Davao over every other place in the Philippines that I have visited. It’s a nice and peaceful place!
Thanks for visiting my blog and posting your comment.
Hi, fantastic site and my mind really is at ease now.
I’m flying to from London to Cebu for the 1st time to meet my girlfriend in a couple of weeks. We then plan to catch the ferry to Butuan City and then on to Bislig City. My only concern is the 5 hour bus trip from Butuan to Bislig. Can you just confirm it is a safe journey by bus please? Alternatively, can you suggest any other form of travel that might be available and approximate cost?
Hi Paul – That should be a safe trip for you to take. The road to Bislig is a bad road, the last hour or two will be uncomfortable, on one of the worst dirt roads you’ve traveled, I’m sure! But, other than that, the trip should be pleasant.
I am a little surprised by the route you are taking. Most people going to Bislig City would fly to Davao City instead of Butuan and take the bus from Davao to Bislig. Maybe you have some other business in Butuan that you need to attend to?
Anyway, enjoy the trip!
To be honest Bob, before reading this Blog I was concerned about Davao. I’ve read much about Davao del Norte (think I’ve got that right). It just seemed a safer route to take. I’m sure after my visit I’ll feel a lot safer second time around.
Hi Paul – I’d ask if you’re joking about Davao del Norte, but I am pretty sure you’re serious. Davao del Norte is certainly at least as safe as Bislig. Good luck with your trip! I really do hope you enjoy it!
Hi Bob, my name is Gabor, me and my 12 years old kiddo will be arrived to Davao City on 17th of January than we have to take a bus to go down to Butuan city. Its about 6-8 hours trip. I would like to know how safe to use such as public transport in Mindano, thanks and regards
Gabor
Hi Gabor – You should not be too concerned about that trip. I would consider that a safe route. I have traveled along that route a number of times myself.
Bob, Great site… I went to Mindanao in August 06, I had a wonderful time. Like you say, use common sense. I used private transportation instead of busses, or Jeepneys on long trips.. I did ride the tricycles in town. All in all, it was a trip I will remember a lifetime.. It does help, to vist someone with a large family, and go in groups.. Unless things have changed alot, I would go back to Mindanao anytime..
Hi Al – you are right, in most parts of Mindanao it is quite safe! I use public transportation from time to time, nothing to fear about that. I do try to travel at least with a partner if I am venturing to an area that I know has safety concerns. For the most part, though, going around I have no qualms about traveling alone.
Glad you enjoyed your trip!
Bob very great info I am from America and will move to Davao city in three months..This makes me feel alot better to read this..Keep up the good work!!I Think Davao gets a bad image sometimes on things that are not true…
hi bob
great work .we will now commit to blogs ,i have been avoiding them in past .
we live in gensan and davao city as well .we will head back soon to gensan .
will use your blog to keep p with home news
thanks again
dj
Hi John – I do consider most of Mindanao to be quite safe for travel. I hope that the current rash of bombings does not force me to alter my evaluation. I guess the next few weeks will tell the story.
DJ – glad to know that you’ll be checking in here from time to time.
first of all i would like to commend you bob for promoting the place where i grow up. i find it amusing for caucasian like you to have acquired a fairly good knowledge about mindanao in a short period of time. in your own little way you have done an excellent service to my country, the philippines.
i observed that a lot of foreigners are asking about safety while visiting minadanao. i dont blame them if they are worried. well, as a matter of fact my wife who is from quezon city and have never set foot in mindanao, is always apprehensive in allowing me to visit my mom once in a while in agusan del norte. in short, these terrorists either communists or islamists were somewhat successful in projecting fear to the majority of filipinos and foreigners alike.
i think bob here is right. use your common sense when you travel to the islands. to tell you the truth, i was more worried about my safety while i was walking in the streets of los angeles, CA(went there last august) than willowing around downtown davao in the middle of the night.
as a member of the armed forces of the philippines(AFP) or what you foreigners call as filipino army. i would like to add some advice to you out there who wants to venture to the philippine islands.
-never show arrogance in the presence of the locals.keep it to yourself until you get back to where you came from. it is common knowledge that older foreigners like to marry younger filipinas for
whatever reason(ex: somebody to care for them when they get old-sad but true).majority of us might be poor but we dont want somebody’s ass in our face.
-seldom locals mention “mindanao” when describing the place(only when they read a map). please be specific like”i’m going to gensan”. in that way people will feel like you have been to the islands before.
-i agree with bob. try to avoid the ARMM provinces if you can help it. if you do, take all necessary precautions( compare it to driving in a freeway with a speed limit of 120 mph). generally majority of people living in those provinces are peaceloving, unfortunately there are a few who are lurking around those places spreading the seeds of chaos. and some of them are well armed. don’t worry we’re hunting them little by little. their number is decreasing in each passing day.(it is lack of education and poverty that contributed to these fightings-to some this is like a chicken and egg situation)
when you encounter philippine military personnel. a simple greeting will be helpful especially if you say it in the local dialect. remember filipinos love to talk to strangers. if you happen to have a problem with them try to request to talk to their immediate commanding officer. that person maybe lacking in the ability to speak in your language but, he is well trained and knows what he is doing. besides, officers in the philippine army are well respected by common soldiers.
there are more pickpockets in metro manila per square kilometer than in the provinces.
don’t be insulted when somebody calls you “joe”.it is like a generic name for a male foreigner,even if you’re from europe. just like when somebody calls you “mate” in australia.
toilet papers might not be readily available in all washrooms here,just like those in long beach ,california.
filipinos like to invite you to their house if they like you.
try the local fruit durian, it smells like hell but tastes like heaven, as what others say about it.
try the bananacue, it is cheap and delicious too.(it’s my favorite snacks in my school in agusan)
enjoy and have a nice trip. welcome to the philippine islands!!
thanks bob
Hi Darius – thanks for posting your comments and suggestions. Coming from a member of the AFP, I consider your suggestions to be very valuable. Especially the suggestions about how to deal with AFP members and also other parts of Filipino Society. It really will help out any foreigner who is traveling Mindanao.
Take care, my friend.
A good page to pick up some Bisaya phrases: http://www.visayas.wowphilippines.com/bisaya/
Bob, if you put a more promenent link to that page, I think you would get more hits.
I am an English man that lives in the Philippines and I have to admit I have not been to Mindanao not because of the problems there but because I have not found time yet.
But what I will say the problem everyone worries about is the Muslims but from my experience they are the most friendly people in the Philippines they are always very polite to me and never shout insults like many Filipinos do and they don’t call me names like Joe which really gets annoying when you hear it non-stop and is in fact the main reason why many tourists never return to the Philippines.
The fact speak for themselves the politicians tell us we are enemies maybe that’s what they want us to be, but the fact is every friend that I can call a true friend that I have in the Philippines is Muslim and all come from Mindanao but know live in Manila.
I find other Filipino’s try to be friends but when they realise they are not going to get money from me stop being friend’s the Muslims never have tried to get money from me yes I do business with some but it’s always on good terms and not you put the money in and take no money out what other Filipino’s expect.
So what I would say is yes travel to Mindanao but treat them with respect and they will you after all you both have something in common while you are there you are both in the minority in a Country where they have little respect for ever of you.
Hi Paul, I agree with some of your post. Most Muslims that I have met are indeed good, friendly and polite people. I cannot argue on that. However, I find most other Filipinos to be the same. Yes, I agree that when I walk down the street and have a bunch of people shouting “hey, Joe” – it gets very annoying, and I don’t care for it. But, most of those people mean no harm, though. Loosen up a bit, and enjoy yourself more.
Paul & Bob,
Please do not take this “Joe” name-calling as an insult. This is usually done by kids or your ordinary townsfolk who don’t know any better. They do not realize that they are offending you. They think they’re “cool” ‘coz they “talked” to a foreigner. If you notice, this usually gets followed by a self-conscious laugh. This is probably what makes you think that they are insulting you.
Just ignore it. Anywhere you travel in this world, you’ll find annoying local behavior but this shouldn’t stop you from enjoying the positive. You’ll soon find out that it’s not that bad after all.
Hi Tina – I understand what you are saying, and I know that most people who shout “hey Joe” don’t mean it to be insulting. But, that is how it feels. For example, in the USA where you live, if somebody shouted out “hey, brown skin” at you, how would you feel? I am sure that you would know that they were ignorant, but it still feels bad. I try to ignore it as much as possible, but I still find it annoying. I will say this – I am a lot better with it now than I was 7 years ago when I first moved here!
I do agree that this should not stop anybody from enjoying the positive. And, there is a lot of positive to living here, if I didn’t feel that way, I wouldn’t be here!
Hi Bob,
If someone called me “Hey, brown skin”. I would say “Hi” back and say “By the way, brown is beautiful!”. My point is life is too short to be dwelling on people’s ignorance. Don’t worry, be happy
.
Hi Bob
What annoys me about it is the harm it is doing to the country I meet tourist and business men and so many of them it has drove them so mad non-stop calling that they won’t return.
Some business men tour of Asia looking for a place to set up a business I spoke to so many that decide against the Philippines just because of this one small thing.
But is it so small how much is it costing the Country.
Even if it makes Just one in ten not return that is still a lot of money the country has lost, But it is much higher than that a survey that never got released revealed that nearly 90% of departing tourists said they will never come back and 70% of them stated racism as one of the main reasons this is shocking it is something that needs putting right for the sake of the Philippines not for me or any other we can go home if we want the poor have to live in the poverty its keeping them in.
Tina try being called Brown skin at Every corner you turn a hundred times a day you. I can assure you you would be screaming in side for christ sake stop calling me that Filipino’s always try to say its Kids but it is not and its not the poor ever its all walks of life that shout it.
The Stupid thing about it is the name comes from G.I Joe looked it up and guess what the first time the name GI Joe used was for a Sergeant that served along side the US in world war II and he was a Filipino.
So all the Filipino’s that shout it, big mistake your the Joe’s.
But most westerners would not call you it because we realise that racist shouts have no place in this world thats why Bob just said brown skin that was a polite way of saying if people called you names he did not mean the name brown skin.
Paul,
I did not want to respond to your post as I think I’ve made myself quite clear in my previous posts, BUT equating “Hey, Joe!” to a racial slur is just UNACCEPTABLE! I will not take this comment about my people sitting down. Ignorant some of them may be, but racist? Definitely NOT!!!
For your information, and for everyone else’s reading this blog, “Hey, Joe!” came from WWII and was a greeting used by the Filipinos to welcome the American soldiers when they came to liberate the Philippines from the Japanese. I got this information from my father (my hero) who happens to be a WWII veteran and a survivor of the Bataan Death March. So, I don’t understand how this supposedly welcoming greeting turned into an insult, and worse – a racial slur?
I have asked the opinion of Caucasians, like you, who’ve been to the Philippines what they thought of it, and most of them found it amusing. So, I don’t know what your problem is???
This discussion can go on forever and I already am contradicting myself by spending more time writing this response but I can’t let you get away with disparaging the Filipinos while living in the Philippines.
You have 3 options:
1. Live in the Philippines, accept things as they are, and turn this “negative” around like Ted Lerner did http://www.hey-joe.net/main.html.
2. Live in the Philippines and be miserable because you don’t want to be called “Joe”. Let’s face it, this is not going away.
3. Leave! There are so many other countries in the world you can go to where you won’t be called “Joe”.
This “Hey, Joe!” is part of the Philippine culture and you either take it or leave it! End of story!!!
OK, everybody…. why don’t we drop this discussion about “Hey, Joe”, or at least just take it to private e-mail. It really doesn’t have anything to do with Safety in Mindanao (which is the topic of this page), and also I think that everybody has had their say. Any further comments on this page regarding this subject will be deleted.
Thanks for your understanding.
Thanks, Bob.
Hey, Bob! I ran across your blog while looking for information on a friend’s store in Iligan City. I wanted, like many before me, to thank you for posting. My husband and I are planning on being in Mindanao, Iligan City, really…in a few weeks. My husband has been, still is, worried for my safety! Funny, “brown skin” that I am, who can be quite adept at sounding local. I’ve reassured him of how safe it is(now, that is…relative, isn’t it?)! It is nice to read about other visitors’ comments. I’ve been a frequent visitor to Mindanao, but haven’t been there in 4 years…this is my husband’s first visit! Salamat sa imo!
Hi Wendy – tell your husband that Iligan is a safe area for him to visit. He should not have any real concerns there. As with anywhere else in the world, just use common sense in your actions – don’t flash money around, be polite to people, etc. You’ll have a great time!
Hey Bob!, Excellent site for info, thanks to you and all contributors.
My lady lives in Manila at present but has family and land at Liloy, Zamboanga del norte. I’m just wondering if it’s possible t get info about that area, stuff like safety (of course) economy etc. She wants me to start builing a ranch there and turn it into something good, strong and profitable. I’d like to do this too but lack much knowledge, from Expats about this area. Any and all info would be gratefully received!
Cheers y’all.
P.S; being called Joe is kinda like being called “laowai” in China where I am right now, it means nothing so don’t make it mean more than that!
Hey Bob! Awesome site and thank you for the heads up on the Mindanao island.In april i will be spending 8 days with my fiance. She is a resident of Davao City, I did have some reservations about saftey, due to my ignorance of the phillippines and its culture. my fiance reassures me and all who wish to travel to davao it is very safe and local knowledge can only be a plus for tourists! I`m looking forward so much to seeing this beautiful place,and enjoying all the sites,beaches and hopefully a spot of scuba diving also. thanks again for your great informative site and also the great contributors who have posted! Richard
Bob,
I am counting the days to my next trip back to Davao City in May (my fifth) I have absolutely no fears about returning despite the terrorist activity in the past. Having my filipina wife as a constant guide and companion undoubtedly helps as does the influence of a hard line law and order mayor in the form of Duterte.
I would think twice before wandering the streets of London after dark, even in the West End because of the level of violent crime often committed by addicts who would not hesistate to use a knife.
Filipinos have stared at me in the Davao malls during past visits but I have never interpreted this as hostile or intimidating behaviour. On the contrary from what I have learned about Filipino culture this curiosity, often accompanied by a friendly “Hey Joe” is if anything a sign of respect and admiration for western civilisation, economic success and even physical features (fair skin and long noses !!)
Bob, before closing I was intrigued to read that you advised a correspondent to “fly to Ozamiz.” Have they reopened an airport there? When I was in that city in 2005 I reached it via a flight from Manila to Cagayan de Oro and a slightly arduous taxi ride to Ozamiz via Iligan (lots of road blocks in the dark plus a ferry crossing)
Ozamiz was an interesting place with a wonderful hotel ,the Royal Garden and if it has its own airport again it would make it a whole lot easier to reach.
Kevin – Thanks for writing, nice to meet you!
I have not been to Liloy or that part of Mindanao yet. Generally, I feel that the northern part of Zamboanga del Norte is safe (up around Dipolog, Dapitan, etc). I also feel that Zamboanga City is safe. I have questions about the area between the two, though, and I can’t really say for certain until I visit the area some day in the future, hopefully not too distant future. I would be cautious about making any kind of serious investment in that part of Zamboanga del Norte at this point.
If you have an opportunity, you might pay the area a visit to get a feel for it. Also, if I do venture out that way, I’ll be sure to post something about the place on my blog.
Hi Richard – you should have no reservations about visiting Davao. You will be safe here in Davao, and you will enjoy your visit, I am certain. Have a great trip! Put the worries aside!
Hi Neville – Good luck on your trip to Davao! I am sure you’ll have a wonderful time. I live in Davao myself – look me up if you have some extra time.
Regarding Ozamiz – I hear different things. It had been my understanding that the airport there was closed, which is why advised that person to take a boat to Ozamiz. He responded to me that the airport was open, so I said to go ahead and fly – at least that’s how I recall the conversation. I do believe that the airport is closed currently, although I hear different things about it.
Take care!
Bob
Thanks for the reply. Yes it would be good to look you up and hear what it is like to actually LIVE in Davao over a beer or a meal; perhaps somewhere with a bit of atmosphere like Pacific Harbour near Apo View Hotel or whatever.
Do you have a filipina partner?
I will get in contact when I have landed in Davao.
regards
Dear Bob
I am flying to Davao with a friend for three days. We are both blonde and female and I was wondering where would be safe to go and where would you recommend for such a short trip?
Best Wishes
Emma
Hi Emma – You should not experience any problems in Davao. There are a lot of foreign women here in town (mostly missionaries, or wives of missionaries). If you are coming for 3 days, why don’t you take a trip out to Samal Island and stay at one of the resorts. I am not sure of your budget, but there are different resorts to cover almost any traveler’s budget. In addition, you might go to Malagos Gardens, or Eden Nature Park for a day, or a half day trip. Another nice trip would be to go up into the mountains near or in Bukidnon. I’d recommend making an overnight stay, or just a day trip to Seagull Mountain Resort, about 2 hours from the City. If you are into adventure, there is a local place that offers White Water Rafting on the Davao River, which would make for a nice day.
Don’t be concerned about safety, you can feel free in the city, and around the area, and need not worry about safety. Just use common sense as you would anywhere in the world.
I’ve just got back from Davao and I LOVED it! I felt safe ’cause they have security guys at the malls and hotels checking your bags. (they don’t do that in London!!) The locals are GREAT! I stayed at Casa Leticia hotel and everyone was very friendly. I couldn’t believe how cheap some things were, 70 peso to get in the cinema, that’s around 70 pence!! Taxi’s to the malls were about 100 peso (£1). The city is a bit run down of course, but the filipino’s were so accomadating I had great time! The only thing that worried me a little is road safety, driving standards aren’t exactly brilliant out there as you can imagine. Oh but get yourselves out there, it was one of the best holidays I’ve ever had!
Steve
Hi Steve, I’m glad you had a nice trip and enjoyed yourself! I live in Davao full time, and I love it!
Davao city is in the top 20 most livable city in Asia besting Cebu and Manila, according to asiaweek.com
This is the place I’ve been to in Mindanao, actually I been to almost evey corner of Mindanao but I only rate those place I stayed for some years of month.
Davao city 9/10(safety)
Tagum city 9/10
Cagayan 9/10
Gensan 7/10
Mati 9/10
Surigao 8/10
Pikit 3/10
Midsayap 4/10
Cotabato city 4/10
Hi Cash – I would say that your ratings are pretty fair. Personally, I would change Pikit and Cotabato to about 6/10, but opinions vary. I have not been to Midsayap, so I can’t really say there. Given the recent mini-war in Midsayap, your judgment is probably pretty accurate, though.
Thanks for sharing your knowledge.
I lived in Pikit for 4 years and my grandfathers father also lived there trust me I know the place well.
I was interested to read Cash’s security ratings base upon a longer term acquaintance. I wonder whether the Surigao score related to knowledge of Bislig or the wider area. I found Bislig very safe and sleepy although there have been isolated robberies on buses doing the Davao-Bislig route. When I went with my wife and her relatives we hired a minibus and set off early in the morning.
Based on a mere 10 day visit I would rate Ozamiz 8 out of 10 for safety. It is a fair distance from known terrorist strongholds like Zamboanga and I cant remember there being any history of bomb outrages.
However the first night I stayed there a man was shot dead at 2am returning home right across the road from the house of my girlfriend’s aunt. Ruby’s family didnt seem to be at all perturbed. They just shrugged and said “drugs” and that was the end of the conversation. But taking the frequent advice of this website it is important to put matters into perspective; there have been three drugs related murders of teenagers in London, England in the last 3-4 weeks !!
Hi Neville – yep, I would agree with your assessment of Bislig and also of Ozamiz. However, I would certainly not call Zamboanga a terrorist stronghold. Terrorist strongholds, in my opinion, have been whittled down to Sulu and none other. There are other places that have some terrorism problems, but I think that a stronghold would only apply to Sulu now.
Thanks for sharing your comments!
when i took my universities in Morgantown, WV. students in the university bullies me when i walk down the road of van voorhis. for no reason at all they will shout at you, booe you because i have a brown skin…and because i grew up in mindanao. i can relate myself to the american guys going over to my place, datu piang, magiundanao.
i told myself, after they did that to me, ” boy, if you at my town, i will skin your head and chop your body and mixed it in pancit.” i am sick of american arrogance.
if bob or other folks there are sick of the ‘hey joe’ thing, i think they should live mindanao, and stop doing business whose products are very expensive.
i don’t know if that bob is hiding under the cloak of a filipina wife, does he have the right to do business, say visa, business permit under his name, and does he pays good salary or just exploited other filipinos out there.
i think he likes there because of the cheap labor, and his money streches a lot, compared as to when she is here in US, his pension can’t even afford him to have comfortable life. the bills are surmounting here, you can’t even afford to buy a decent house if you are just having an income of 3,000. there a lots of suckers here. unlike there, only mosquitos sucks us.
Mike, I am really sorry for you. It seems that you have the same attitude that the bullies at your University had. The only thing I can say to you is that I hope that someday you are able to overcome your negative attitude and be a better person.
Good luck to you.
i am this because of the opportunist americans like you and the rest. i became a bully because of the americans, who wants competition and wants to stand out. what happen in iraq now, happened to us 100 years ago. american always wanted to liberate a country, but what happened to the country being liberated is that they became poor and poorer, because a lot of suckers comes in, and pretend to be a good but at the back they take advantage of the inocence of my country men.
Mike – what you are posting is unreasonable, and the parts about me are untrue. You know nothing about me, yet you judge me. If you read the things I have written here, I think you will easily be able to determine that I am no opportunist.
Mike, you are welcome to post comments here as long as you maintain a good attitude. I am not here to fight with you, I don’t even want to do that. So, if you keep posting things that are unreasonable and untrue, I will have to ban you from continuing to post, and I don’t want to do that.
So, lighten up!
To Mike:
Your comments to Bob are very condescending. I sense that you haven’t read this site thoroughly, and if ever you did, maybe your reading comprehension needs updating.
Please refrain from making comments that only reflect of your arrogance and ill manners and advertise your ignorance.
FYI, this website has helped a lot of people all over the world learn about Mindanao and for true Mindanawans who miss the island so much. Don’t rob us off from enjoying this website by making rude remarks. If you want to disagree you can use appropriate language to do so. If you have a hard time doing it in English, binisay-a na lang.
Mike,
My advice for you is get rid of that bitterness as it will destroy you. You cannot go through life harboring ill feelings and blaming your misery on others. This attitude will take you down.
Mike, just be cool, yes? You can’t go on spending your precious life resenting and blaming others for your sorrow.
Choose to be happy, Brother. Life is beautiful
I was recently in Mindanao, specifically Ozamis and areas east of Ozamis. My “opinion” is that Ozamis is a safe city. Sure, if you walk around in places you aren’t familiar with at night you will get in trouble, but that is also true here where I live, in Columbia, SC.
I also spent four nights in the barangay of Poblacion, Ramon Magsaysay. As best I can tell, this place is due east of Molave, which in turn is basically due east of Ozamis. (Also basically due south of Dipolog.) In an earlier message Bob said be careful going to the remote parts of the Zamboanga penninsula, particularly south of Dipolog. I would agree. We were staying at my fiance’s parent’s house, and one night she “hid” me in the bedroom because of some “strange” men were outside.
She still insists Ramon Magsaysay is perfectly safe, and that she was just being overprotective. However, in the future I will stay at a hotel in Ozamis, or maybe just one night at her parent’s house. And I would certainly NOT suggest that a westerner go alone to that part of Zamboanga. Which is a shame, because everyone I met was extremely nice. But better to err on the side of safety.
On the other hand, I could live in Ozamis if I had to. To be honest, Cebu City was more comfortable to me, (less of a culture shock!), but Ozamis was seemed safe enough.
Hi Ken – thanks for sharing about your adventures in the Ozamiz City area! I’m glad to know that you had a good time.
Hi Bob!
Thanks for this blog about mindanao. My boyfriend from Conway, AR is kinda worried of visiting me here in Davao. I will let him read this
Bob,
I love ur site and have learned a lot. This summer I am going to visit Gingoog City (flying into Cagayan de Oro from Manila via San Francisco) to visit friends and my girlfriend. I was stationed in Luzon (San Antonio up coast from Subic Bay about 30 miles) over 33 yrs ago.
But never made it south. Can u give me a heads up on the Cagayan de Oro and Gingoog City area, safty wise and cautions for a first time visitor to the area. Thank for any info
Hi Marivic – yes, have your boyfriend visit the site, and have him e-mail me if he has concerns. I would be happy to share any information with him.
Hi Luke – Cagayan de Oro City and Gingoog City are both safe places to visit. There is not really any unrest in that part of Mindanao. You should feel free to go there and enjoy your trip!
Thank you for the info. During this trip I am going to look to see if this is what I want to live for retirement. (Gingoog City/Cagayan de Oro or Cebu) For I am planning on retiring in 3 yrs and I do not want to retire in Calif. So Please wish me luck
Best of luck, Luke! If I can assist you at all, let me know.
Hi Bob,
I’m so glad you have this site. I’ll be spending a month or two this summer doing my research in a place called Ned (nearish GenSan, I’m told), and it’s nice to know that I have no more than usual to worry about. I spent 4 months in Los Banos (Laguna, Luzon) in 2000, and I am really looking forward to returning to the Philippines and exploring other areas! This time I’m actually learning the language, too…
Hi Elisa – I lived in General Santos for 2 years, and am very familiar with the area. I have never heard of Ned before. Are you sure that’s the full name? If you are going to be down south like that, I would not recommend learning Tagalog, but rather Bisaya. In many parts of the GenSan area, the language to learn would be Ilonggo.
Good luck with your stay there.
Hi Bob! me and my gf are going to visit Cagayan de Oro since a Philippine friend of us is going to get married there. What can you say me about safety in Cagayan de Oro area? I heard of tourists kidnapped and other frightening things, is it ok to go there?
Cheers
Hi,
My wife, three children and I just returned from three weeks holiday in cotabato city. We were well looked after by relatives so felt fairly safe.
As we visited Davao, I also got to see a few towns including midsayap where we stopped for lechon manok which was first class.
My presence generally caused a bit of excitement. Only a couple of times did I feel nervous, and very glad for our relatives.
Hi James! Glad to hear that you had a good trip! Midsayap would be on my “no travel” list right now, so you came out quite good indeed!
Bob,
During my visit to the Cagayan de Oro/Gingoog City area can you tell me any points of interest that you would concider a must to see or to do other than the falls and maybe Butuan, or things to watch out for?
Thank you.
Hi Bob, I’d like to thank you very much for promoting the Philippines. Sad but true, even my fellow Filipinos are not aware of the current state of Mindanao. I’ve been to several places in Mindanao in the past, Davao (Pearl Farm), Zamboanga (Dakak), Polomolok (lots of pineapples!), South Cot (lake sebu)) Tacurong (Sultan Kudarat)and I find the place quite safe. Too bad I’m having a hard time convincing my colleagues Mindanao is a great vacation spot. I’d give them a link to your site. That would probably do the trick!
Hi Chris – I hope your friends would consider visiting here in Mindanao! Most places here are quite safe, only a few are dangerous! If they just make a short visit they will learn that what’s on the news is not always the truth!
Thanks for visiting my site!
Hi Bob! nice site you have here in informing people about mindanao. I live in Koronadal City, and i’ll be glad to help anyone who will visit South Cotabato area.
Elisa – Ned is a barrio of Lake Sebu. It’s quite far from the town of Lake Sebu and it’s accessible to “Skylabs” – (term for motorcycle) and jeepneys. It’s a safe place and you will not have problems with the people there. Just make sure to bring basic necessities and lots of bottled water. Good luck on your research. I’m sure you’ll enjoy your stay there.
Hi Carlo – thanks for your nice comment, and your offer to assist travelers to South Cotabato. Next time I’m in that area (I was just there 2 weeks ago!), I’ll look you up and maybe we can go for a cup of coffee.
Bob and Carlo,
Thanks for your comments. I figured water would be an issue, so I plan to purchase a SteriPen, which makes water safe using UV. It’s easier to carry than tons of bottles, and appeals to my geeky side.
As for learning languages, I wish I had access to Bisaya lessons, or Ilonggo…but no such luck. Is English as common on Mindanao as it is on Luzon, or will I likely be conducting interviews with farmers via a translator?
Actually, ignore that 2nd paragraph…it looks like I’m going to need a T’boli translator
At least I’ll be able to practice my Tagalog when I’m up in LB in July.
Hi Elisa – In most areas, mineral water is readily available. Even in fairly remote places, you can usually get a bottle of water at a Sari Sari Store in the area. You would have to get to a REALLY remote place to not be able to find bottled water.
To learn Bisaya a little bit, you can check out my Learn Bisaya blog at: http://visayas.wowphilippines.com/bisaya in addition to written phrases we also have a podcast on the blog so that you can hear the spoken word as well as read it.
Thanks, I’ll check out the other blog.
As for the water, I would really like to minimize my environmental impact as well as the amount of stuff I need to carry around. I know the glass coke bottles get sterilized and refilled, but plastic water bottles can’t be turned back into plastic water bottles. The downside is that I won’t be contributing to the economy as much.
Hi Elisa – I had not really thought about the plastic bottles. One thing you could do to minimize the environmental impact is to get the big 5 gallon jugs of water (which they do indeed recycle) and use them to refill your own bottles and keep re-using them.
Bob,
My January/07 comments have disappeared? I sent them after my 4 week visit, thought I was being complimentary. Anyway, guess this one won’t last long then. I have mailed 3 letters to Koronadal from Canada. The first one, sent in January, only arrived 2 weeks ago. The last two letters are now 6 – 8 weeks and no sign of them. I know its not our postal service, so what’s the deal here? Also, my wife wants me to accompany her again in 10 months for a return trip. My last trip was a great experience except for one thing, and that is the pungent odor that seems to permiate through the towns and along the highway. If I’m the only one with this problem then its my tough luck, but I could not get used to it after 4 weeks and it made me feel sick often. Any helpful hints for my next visit other than stay home?
Hi Lawrence – I can assure you that no comments have ever been deleted from this blog, except for SPAM obviously.
Mail to the Philippines is indeed slow, but there is not much I can do to change that. For something that needs to get here quickly, I’d recommend using somebody like UPS or FedEX.
Indeed, some places here do smell bad. That’s just life in the 3rd world. Someday when the Philippines moves up on the infrastructure ladder such problems will be resolved. As of right now, the only thing you can do is to bear it.
In light of the terrible tragedy at Virginia Tech University last Monday where an Asian male (South Korean) brutally gunned down and killed 32 innocent students and wounded many more, I couldn’t help but refer back to Mike’s message of late February. I remembered his blog because his anger stood out, and I was surprised when I went back to it to read he also attended a West Virginia university. I guess we are lucky Mike didn’t do the same. I don’t know if racism (as well as a sick mind) is what’s behind the Virginia Tech massacre, and I can’t imagine the hurt of being a victim of racism. But Mike and other victims have to understand it is only a small fraction of people like this, the rest of us see everyone as an equal. And thanks to people like you Bob who had the patience to allow a victim like Mike to vent and ease some of his pain. By the way my visit experienced nothing but a shy friendliness by all Filipino’s, and I felt the “Joe” calling was a simple and friendly way of saying hi, it was always accompanied by a smile or a wave and I never felt it was racist.
Hi Lawrence – I had not thought of Mike in connection with the shooting spree at Virginia Tech. But, you do make a point. I hope that Mike has been able to put at least some of his anger behind him now.
Great to hear that you enjoyed your trip here!
Hey Bob,
Thought I would let you know that my plans to visit Butuan have been formalized. It will be great to see the Philippines again after nearly 40 years.
My female friend who lives in Butuan will be my guide and companion while I am there. Looking forward to a great visit and interesting time. Will let everyone know how it goes when I return home. Thanks again for such a great site. What a help to all of us.
Mike
Great site. So many useful info.
Really perfect!!! I’ll bookmark!
Hi Rudolf – I’m glad you have found the site useful!
Hi bob
I will be traveling to iligan city in july. I was wondering about how safe it would be for me to go there. I am meeting my girl friend there and am traveling alone. I wanted to know the safest and fastest route to get there form manila. Any help would be great thanks.
Don
Hi Don – Iligan is quite safe, you should not be worried about going there. For your best route, you should fly from Manila to Cagayan de Oro City, then take a bus from CdO to Iligan. Iligan is about 1 1/2 hours drive away from CdO.
Enjoy the trip!
Thanks. This really helps. I’m going to move to Mindanao for Nursing school and hopefully I will be safe.. Is Cagayan De Oro safe??
Hi Marian – Yes, Cagayan de Oro is quite safe! Enjoy your stay and your studies there!
Hi bob!
Finally, my boyfriend Mark will come over. I will meet him at NAIA 2 this tuesday. We will be glad to see you in person if you are not busy.
Hi Marivic – It will be my pleasure to meet you and Mark! Just keep me posted on when you will be in Davao!
Hi Bob, How are things down your way? Thanks for keep us regular folks up to date with the insider information. Planning a trip that way though not sure when. Don’t really need to ask you about safes places since it seems you cover that very well. I am curious as to how “Americanized” are Mindanao’s cities? IE food, housing etc. Mainly the cities in the south but if you could give a general layout of the island.
TKS Todd
Hi Todd – I would say that cities here are not “Americanized” at all. It’s a really different world here that you can only appreciate with a longer term stay here. When I used to come here for vacation, I thought that the culture here was very similar to American culture. Living here, though, made me realize that it is nothing like American culture. Now, when it comes to food, most of the larger towns have a McDonalds, a Pizza Hut, etc. Housing here is much different than US style housing. I guess the most advanced cities would be Davao and Cagayan de Oro.
wow.. what a nice site you have here. and i really like the way you wrote this article.
I
Hi Tina – thanks for the compliment! I appreciate your kindness. Come back and visit the blog often!
Hi Bob,
I would like to visit my fiancee in General Santos next month. I read the US State Department’s updated travel advisory, and I am a bit concerned. Do you think it would be safer to meet my fiancee in Manila instead of in General Santos? Have there been any threats to foreigners in General Santos that you are aware of? Thank you for this great blog and for the service which it provides to many people.
Sincerely,
Rich
Hi Rich – Thanks for stopping by my blog! Frankly, I would feel less safe in Manila than in General Santos! Manila has a much higher crime rate than in GenSan. I lived in General Santos for 2 years before moving to Davao, and I can say that it is a fairly safe place to visit. My only advice would be to avoid going to the public market and other places with large crowds. If there happens to be a problem with a bombing, that is where it would happen. I have never known of a time when a foreigner was targeted in General Santos. The problem would come in not from being targeted, but if you happen to be in the wrong place at the wrong time when a bomb happens to go off and everybody present is a target then.
Really, though, I don’t feel that you are exposing yourself to excessive danger by going to General Santos. I go there often myself, and have no qualms about doing so.
Enjoy the trip!
Hi Bob,
You have a great blog here mate..
I would appreciate any comments and infomation about travelling to Butuan on mindianao.
I would like to meet a new friend there and am wondering about any likelyhood
of dangers there and my safety.
My friend lives in a small town called bayugan 1 in the barangay of maygatasan
about 1-2 hours south of Butuan.
Any infomation about the area would be greatly appreciated.
Hi Glenn – You can safely visit Bayugan, I have been there a number of times. It is a safe area, very far from the areas that are unsafe. Bayugan is a small little town, actually no more than an hour from Butuan. I am sure you’ll have a great time!
Hello Glen…Bob is right man. I can assure you once you setfoot on that place, safety is a no-problem thing. I’m from there and I know the place quite well. Enjoy your travel…
I am married to a Filipina from Malalag Davao del Sur. We have talked about going there to live with our children. Is Malalag an area we could safely build a home and retire?
Hi Ken – I have a blog about Living here in the Philippines, I recommend that you do some reading there too…. http://www.LiveInThePhilippines.com
There should be no safety problems in Malalag. However, in my opinion, you would be very bored living in Malalag, there simply isn’t much there. If you want to try Malalag, I’d advise you to hold off on building a house there. Rent for a couple of years to make sure you can live in that very rural environment. If after 2 years you like it, that is the time to build a house. If you find yourself bored there (I know I would be), consider living in Davao City, it’s not far.
Nothing against Malalag, I enjoy spending time in that area, particularly in Santa Maria. I just would not be able to live there.
Hello,I would like to travel to Bislig City.Any info would be apreciated.Such as saftey tips,Does it have an airport or do iland in another city,anything you have time to tell me i would love.Thankyou so much for your time.
Hi Terry – You should have no major concerns in traveling to Bislig. That is an area where you should not experience any safety issues. If you review the comments ahead of yours, you will find lots of comments about safe travel to Bislig. Good luck on your trip!
HI Bob,
First, I want to say thanks for a GREAT website. wonderful information here. I too will be going to Bayugan in July, and saw that you’ve been there. Are there any nice hotels that you’ve seen? Keep up the great work, as without it, I would have been hesitant to even go there.
Hi Mike – As far as I know, there are no hotels in Bayugan. There are probably a few pension houses and such there. For a hotel, you probably should be looking to stay in Butuan. Enjoy the trip!!
Hi Bob!Do you know about Molave in Zamboanga del Sur?(half way between Pagadian & Ozamis City) Just wondering if you have ever heard of any kind of problems there. Historically I mean. I did travel there last October & everything seems very safe. i plan to travel between Molave & Dipolog City via the coast. Hopefully that is safe too. as an aside,have you ever tasted a BALOT. My partner Carol assures me that it’s delicious but the description makes it hard to believe. Thanks for your informative site.
Hi Richard – Yes, I am familiar with Molave. I feel that right now (July 2007) it is not a good time to visit the Zamboanga Peninsula, due to the ongoing kidnapping of Father Bossi, and Italian Priest. For updates on the situation, send an e-mail to safety@mindanao.com and you will receive our latest Mindanao Security Report by e-mail.
hi again Bob. Are you sure we are talking about the same place? I have been looking on Google Earth which places the Zamboanga Peninsula where Zamboanga City is. Would you say the whole of this peninsula including the north part up to Dipolog is unsafe? If so this is a real disappointment. Can you tell me where father Bossi was taken from?
Hi Richard and Carol – Yes, we are talking about the same place. The Zamboanga Peninsula includes Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay and Zamboanga City, some would include Misamis Occidental too. It’s a peninsula, meaning that it stretches from the mainland of Mindnaao. Note that I did not say it is “unsafe” as you say. I said that right now is not a good time to visit. If you or anybody wants to go, no problem. If you ask my advice, I say that right now it’s better to avoid the area. In a month or 6 months maybe things will calm down a bit.
Father Bossi was taken in Zamboanga Sibugay.
Richard and Carol -
I visited my girlfriend’s house in Zamboanga del Sur back in February. She lives in Ramon Magsaysay, which is west of Molave, and is pretty much out in the countryside. My last night there she and her Mama had to hide me in one of the bedrooms, because some “strange men” were outside, asking about me.
My girlfriend still insists Zamboanga del Sur is safe, but maybe she just doesn’t understand how the presence of a Westerner can attract undesirable types.
How long are you going to be in Molave? My opinion, (Bob will probably disagree), is that two or three nights there should be okay, but the longer you stay, the more likely trouble will come looking for you.
Would I visit Ramon Magsaysay and Molave again? Sure, but day-trips only. I would spend the night in Osamis.
Hi Ken from SC – I don’t disagree with you. There will probably be no problems during the visit. But, I do feel this is not a good time to visit the Zamboanga Peninsula. I have been to lots of more dangerous places than that, but I just feel it’s not a good time to go there right now.
Bob,
I wanted to thank u for the information u gave me earliar this yr on Cagayan de Oro and Gingoog City. I spent June 07 there and had a wonderful visit with friends and my wife to be. No trouble just friendship and joy. I plan on returning soon, this time I hope to bring her back with me for our wedding and then in a few yrs retire back to the area as I truly love the area. Never ate such mouch wonderful food in my life and I still lost weight and feel great. I recommend the area highly. The Easland Hotel in Gingoog City is nice to stay in (clean with good customer service and nice food. and the cost will not make u cut ur trip short
Again thank u for ur help
Hi Luke – I’m glad that you had a good time in Gingoog! It is a nice part of Mindanao! I’m not familiar with the Easland, when I was there I stayed at Gingoog Hotel, as I recall, it’s behind the public market, near the bus terminal.
An update: my filipino friends who either are from the Zamboanga penninsula, or have lived there, are telling me NOT to go to Ramon Magsaysay, (or Molave), right now. Apparently the kidnapping of the Italian Priest is a BIG DEAL.
Hi Ken – Yeah, that’s what I was saying. Although Father Bossi was already released, stay out of the Zamboanga peninsula for now, it’s better to be safe than sorry!
Bob,
That is the same place. For the area it was a nice hotel and clean with great service
Hey Bob-
Can you provide safety and travel information about Iligan City. I’ll be traveling alone, I’m in the military and have a noticeable tattoo of the Eagle, Globe and Anchor on my right fore arm. Any suggestions?
Semper Fi.
Hi Dutch – You won’t have any problems in Iligan, it is quite safe. I go there often. My advice would be, though, not to go south from the City, it can start getting a little hairy down there. Stay in the City, or to the north and you will have no worries. The Military Insignia is not a problem to worry about.
Have a great trip!
By the way, Dutch – you can always get my latest Mindanao Security Report by sending an e-mail to: safety@mindanao.com and it will be forwarded to you automatically. I update the report every 2 months, or more often if the situation warrants it.
Hello Bob,
I will be coming to Cacayan Village, Mangagoy Bislig City. In October for a 2 week visit. What if any comments would you have regarding this area? thank for your time and take care.
from Alaska
Hi La Mont – I don’t really have any comments, except to say that I feel the Bislig area is safe to travel in. You can get a full copy of my Mindanao Security Report by e-mailing safety@mindanao.com
Enjoy your trip!
Hi Bob,
Great site, provides some really usefull information.
I am planning on a trip to Davao and a few places in Davao Oriental in September. What is your opinion of having my children travel with me? They are early teens. from UK
Thanks
Hi Steve – I think your kids would have great time! I don’t think there are any safety issues involved in the trip!
Enjoy yourself!
Hello Bob,I am very grateful for your site and this info.It has greatly alleviated any fears I had of visiting Mindanao,Ozamiz city in particular.I have visited a lot of sites in regards to visiting the Philippines and none were near as informative and interesting as yours.I just returned to Mississippi,from 2 weeks in Cebu.I am coming back!I will be visiting Ozamis in Sept.07.Thanks again,Alan James
Hi there!!!!
Do you have an idea how long it will take for me to travel from Ozamis City going to Pagadian City….I havent been to Mindanao…
thanks
Hi Tina, just checking out the posts and I see you have not had an answer since Aug 6!! I hope this very useful site is still being attended. I have travelled between Osamiz and Molave, then Pagadian and Molave. By memory it will be about 45 mins for each section depending on the bus you get. Maybe even an hour. By car it would only take max 40 mins. My partner lives in Molave and I had access to a vehicle some of the time which was the best option by far.
Hi Richard and Carol – I am attending the blog…… I answer all questions that I know the answer to.
How safety my family if there’s still a war behind in mindanao area. The military team always been secured for a red-alert….Do i’m safe if i saw guns & weapon in the road.. I think it’s not. Pershap..i will postpone my visit in cagayan de oro city to make any businesses..
Glenda – I can assure you that there is not kind of war or even alert in the CdO area.
Hi Bob,
My wife and I will be visiting in the Dipolog area (including the small community of Mapang, ZN). I’ve been in northern Mindanao five times previous and have never encountered any problems although my wife’s family got really protective last time (‘05) after a stabbing incident in town (surprise…such things happen here in Kentucky too!).
You’ve mentioned previously that Dipolog is safe. Any further advice in light of recent events? Thanks!
Hi Jerry – I think that your itinerary is safe. I always advise using caution and common sense no matter where in the world you go, but I don’t see any particularly dangerous areas in your travel plans. Enjoy your trip!
Bob,
I agree with the others u offer a great deal of help to those of us that r visit the Philippines and Mindanao. I am returning to Gingoog City in Oct for a visit by way of Cagayan de Oro. With the trouble that I am hearing in the south any special concerns or is it the same as when I was there in June?
Again thank u for ur help
Hi Luke – The situation should be relatively unchanged since your last trip! I don’t think you’ll experience any problems at all. Enjoy your trip!
Hi Bob,
Thanks for your great blogsite. I’m a filipino expat who worked and traveled to around 72 countries all these years. Although I frequently go back to the Philippines, it’s my first time to return to Mindanao this year, after 22 years absence.
Like any foreigner or Filipino from Luzon & the Visayas, I was a bit apprehensive at first, having read all the negative publicity about Mindanao. But after visiting Butuan, Cagayan de Oro and Davao I am convinced that those who completely believe in the media are missing a lot! And what I saw…was the complete opposite of what I read in the papers. Enjoyed the great nightlife of Cagayan de Oro & Davao. Nice place to unwind. And at a good price. Walked in the streets till 2 AM without any incident. It was surprisingly peaceful.
Also loved the lush tropical paradise of Samal Island. It was refreshing. It takes all the stress away…Stayed at the Pearl Farm, which included a boat ride to the nearby Malipano Island. I was so beautiful!!! Wished I had stayed longer. Will be back.
Will be traveling to Dipolog tomorrow, then Gen San after a week.
Hi drherm – Sounds like you have been enjoying a great adventure, and covering many parts of Mindanao! Congratulations on that, and I hope you are really enjoying yourself! I hope you continue to enjoy your trip!
my hubby is planning to go to iligan city to join this down hill mountain bike race. do you think it is safe?
Hi sugar – Yes, I go to Iligan a lot, and it is quite sfe there.
Hello, I’m a Japanese who came across to your good site. Thank you very much for your great information given here.
I am planning to visit near Camp Overton and around Ma. Cristina.
Would you give me advice, how about Japanese visiting Iligan City?
And, do those place considered as “Southern Iligan” that you recommend to avoid (because I understand the area of Ma. Cristina is deep inside)?
Hi Sat – The area around Maria Christina is still in Iligan, and you should be safe there. I am saying not to go south of the City, and that is not a problem in the area where you are mentioning. Enjoy the trip!
Thanks Bob!!
Bob -
Is it okay to go to Zamboanga del Sur now? Specifically, Ramon Magsaysay, which is west of Molave?
I will be in Ozamis early October.
Thanks,
Ken
Hi Ken from SC – It should be OK to visit that area. As a precaution, though, try to stay in more populated areas, don’t venture out too much after dark, etc. I think you will have a safe trip there, it just never hurts to be careful. Good luck to you!
Hi Bob,
Thanks for the blog its the only objective, fair view I have read about visiting Mindanao. I will be going to malaybalay in october for 2 weeks and was just concerned about the security situation there? are there any major concernes about visiting Malaybalay with it been so far up in the mountains?also my girlfriend will traveling on her own the week before I go is there any concernes about a young woman traveling on there own?
Thanks Bob
Daz
Hi Dazz – You should not be overly concerned about visiting Malaybalay, that is quite a safe area, in my view.
Hi bob thank’s for a great site!..im coming to Zamboanga city i hope in November 07, I have travled in phillls befor but not in the south.
I am a cautious guy and respectful of other cultures and people,is there any thing i need to know about the city i should be aware of,i tend to walk rather than use buses and avoid late nyts out. I woill be most greatfull for the heads up…. Kind Regards Derm’s..
Hi Derm’s – You should not have problems in Zamboanga City. I think that you’ll have a great, and safe time there.
hello bob! nice site! a great help to people’s inquiry!.. is mindanao safe particularly CDO, Bukidnon and Calamba Misamis? what are the names of the mountain in that area that were insfected, i mean what was the security situation in those mountains? im planning to go there sometime october..thank you very much and GOD bless you!
i mean, infested =) ..sorry for the typoerror..again, thank you
Hi Nancy – I offer a Mindanao Security Report which is free of charge. All you need to do (as it says on this post) is send an e-mail to: safety@mindanao.com and it will be sent right out to you.
The areas that you mention are generally safe.
Great site Bob,
I went to Bislig via Davao in 2000. Great trip with no trouble.
I’m wondering about Misamis Occidental. What’s the best way to get there and how is it relative to neighboring Zamboanga?
Cheers, Cary
Hi Cary – There are three Zamboanga Provinces, and also Zamboanga City, so I am not certain which of those you are asking about. Generally, I feel that Misamis Occidental is more safe and secure than any of the Zamboanga Provinces, but not by a huge amount. Zamboanga City itself is quite safe.
Getting to Misamis Occidental? You can fly into Ozamiz City – they re-opened the airport a couple months ago. Alternatively, you could take a boat from Cebu to Ozamiz.
i completely agree with you. i am working under an ngo dedicated to help our muslim brothers. you are doing a noble act. keep it up.
[...] of bob.. I found the blog of bob.. An American living in Mindaneao with his wife & kids.. aparently he still has all his limbs [...]
Hey Bob,
I visited the Philippines (Mindanao) for the first time about a year ago, specifically GSC, Digos, and Davao. My wedding was actually held in Digos. I read your blog before i went and to be honest, I was a little nervous when i first got down there b’cuz i’m an american and US Military. The US Military doesn’t like to let it’s members travel to the Southern Philippines unless it’s for “official” business. I didn’t experience any problems while i was there. The people were nice and the weather was great. I loved traveling through the mountains going from GSC to Davao and back. I thought the view was great. I had a great time down there. A lot of first’s for me..Jeepney’s, tricycles, bus stations, no toilet paper =). There are a lot of those small 100cc motorcycles down there!!! My wife had to translate everything for me but i still had a great time. We are actually looking into buying a house down there after i retire. Just wanted to add some sunshine to the often dark cloud that most people think Mindanao is. Thanks.
Hi Bryan – I’m really glad to hear that you enjoyed your trip! If you are back in the area again, please let me know, and let’s have a cup of coffee!
Thanks for all the useful information on this website. My father-in-law’s family live in Pagadian. We are planning a visit in January 2008. It appears that the Pagadian airport is closed (not sure when it will re-open; any ideas?). Thus, our closest way to visit is from MNL to Ozamis City. So, I guess I have a couple of questions: 1) I think they plan to pick us up in Ozamis and drive to Pagadian in the daytime. Safe enough? 2) Is Pagadian itself generally safe? We are a family of 4 with 2 kids ages 3 and 11. Never been to the Philippines before, although travel quite a bit. Any info appreciated…Cheers!
Hi Smitty – You should not really expect any problems on your trip. The trip from Ozamiz to Pagadian should go off without a hitch, I would not expect any safety problems in that area. Pagadian is safe to stay in too.
Enjoy your trip!
Hi Bob, this is a great site! I have a question about Koranadal, and more importantly Norala in South Cotabato. A friend of mine is there for three months and I desperately want to visit them in Norala. They’ve mentioned that it could be a little unstable for US citizens right now. What is your sense? We were planning to to stay at their home in Pablacion Norala, but is it better suited to meet in another area, and shy away from Norala and the outlying countryside? Thank you so much! Salamat!
Hi Tim – I have been to Norala many times. Personally I would not be worried about staying in that area. If you went there and felt uncomfortable you could always go stay in Koronodal or General Santos. However, I personally would recommend that you give Norala a try, I think that you’d be fine there. Good luck!
Thank you so much Bob!
I have heard that in one year from now the Philippine government willnot allow foriegnors to travel to mindenao. Is there any truth in that> Also me and fiance own a lot in vilanueva and are thinking of buying another mindenao lot in siargao island. Would you say these area’s are safe for a white tourist or not? Would you recomend i buy in another part of the country other than mindenao? Thanks Dean from canada
Hi Dean – I have never heard such a thing about foreigners not being allowed to travel to Mindanao. If that were to be the case, it would mean that the Philippines would have to become a police state first, because as a free country, people can travel anywhere. I don’t think that will happen.
Also, the areas that you mention are safe indeed. No need to worry.
Thanks Bob. Is land expensive araound the davao area? I have never been there but would like to in 2008. I have been to the philippines several times now and to a few diferent locations and would like to explore mindanao more. Would like to meet up with you also if i make it to davao. By from canada
Hi Dean – For land prices in Davao, it really depends on the area of town. Figure that the minimum price you’ll find for land is about P4,000 per square meter or so, maybe a little less. I have seen land in the City for up to P10k per square meter.
Sure, whenever you are in the area, please let me know! I’d be happy to meet you.
Just wondering if you know anything about the safety of palawan. Soecifically an hour either side of Puerto Princes. Thanks
Hi dean – Sorry, I don’t know about the situation in Palawan as I have not been there before. My impression is that the place is not dangerous.
Hi Bob. I know you have been all around mindanao so i ask you this. Of all the places you have been what would you say has the best combination of safest place, friendlieast people , nicest scenery and best weather ( least amount of rain) I hope there is such a place hahaha. I would like to buy a piece of land and retire there someday. Thanks
Jim – There is no question in my mind on this – I don’t believe that anyplace can even come close to Davao City for the things that you are looking for. That’s why I choose to live here!
Davao is very safe – in my opinion it is the safest City in the Philippines.
The people of Davao are very friendly (but Filipinos in general are very friendly, not just in Davao).
Davao City is close to the Islands and the Highlands! In a single day you can visit the beach resorts of Samal and the Mountains of Bukidnon. Not many places can provide such a variety of scenery.
It does rain regularly in Davao City, but 90% of the rain comes at night. The rain keeps the vegetation here lush and beautiful, yet since it mainly rains at night, that doesn’t interfere with your plans during the day.
Good luck!
[...] one of the posts on my Mindanao Blog, a reader left a comment with a question for me. Here is what he said: Hi Bob. I know you have been all around Mindanao so i [...]
Bob you have convinced me with your confidence about davao. I will visit there in january on my next trip. How do i look you up?
Hi Bob,
Ako ug ang akong Bana ganahan kaayo sa imong blog!
Ronelin
Bob -
I agree, I think. (I can’t read Bisaya!) Neither of us have been in both the USA and Mindanao long enough to comment on relative PHYSICAL safety, but how about emotional health? In Mindanao, people laugh more, and unlike the USA, you will NEVER be alone!
Ken in S.C.
Hi Ronelin Zearfoss – I’m glad that you and your husband are enjoying my blog! Thank you for visiting.
Hi Ken – For the most part, physical safety is not a concern in the vast majority of Mindanao. Emotional health? The US is probably among the most dangerous in the world!! Ha ha…
Hi bob hows it going?well Is there anyway to find out if there is any stalls for sale at the davao public markets?
Hi Riob – There must be a way to check on that. I don’t know the process, though.
Hey Bob,
Your information was very helpful to friends of mine who recently traveled to Mindanao and enjoyed their time there very much.
I would like to comment briefly on the picture with the US military training/or not in Jolo on your blog. In 2001 and 2002 I was in Jolo, Cotabato and Zamboanga when the Philippine govt asked the US for assistance with their fight against the Abu Sayaff. We did train and on some ocassions went with the PI Army/Marines along only as advisors. The threat is not as youu put it island wide, rather in isolated regions of the island. But precaution has to be always considered.
Hi Kone – Thanks for leaving your comment. The way your wrote that, it sounds like you are disagreeing with me (that I had said that the threat is island wide). I just want to clear that up…. I don’t think I ever said that, I have always said that about 90% of the island is safe, and only a few pockets are dangerous.
Anyway, I think that you were actually agreeing with me, but the way it is worded is ambiguous.
Thanks again for stopping by and commenting! I do appreciate it.
your site is great ! but I’m dissappoint..you said that only comments in english will be published.Your using Mindanao,and mindanao is in the philippines.We appreciate that you are a english man but try to balance my friend..I’m proud to be a filipino mabuhay!
Hi sons of sulu – I am sorry, I cannot accept comments that I don’t understand. I am responsible for the information published here on the site, and not knowing what is being said is not a way to take responsibility for the words on the site. There are indeed thousands of other sites where comments in your language can be left. I am sorry for this, but I do hope you understand.
I’m thinking of coming over and cheching out cdo where can I get a map of the area and can you rent a car to drive out to grandma town(gingoog)what is it like (safty+thing to do)
Hi Joe – If you haven’t driven here in the Philippines before, I’d recommend that you shelve the idea of renting a car. Driving here is very different! If you insist on driving, you can probably find a car to rent in CdO, although I am not familiar with where you would do that. I know of no maps online, sorry.
I don’t think that driving would be safe if you haven’t driven before. The area is safe to travel, though.
Alcoholics Anonymous will be holding the Philippines National Convention in Davao in February.
Feel free to check the website for more details.
http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/AAPhilippines/
Cheers,
Mark C
Negros
I have a home outside of Gingoog city a great place to visit an live as far as i am concerened ,I had no trouble and my wife did all the talking hee hee she is good at that ..being a filipino woman from gingoog city …and don’t drive there , they are scary drivers …we use bus or taxies or walk ..going back there this year too..vacation home for me
Oh i forgot to say ..google earth has a good map of caygayan de oro .. i can find the house we rented in bon bon a hundred yards from the bay (or the beach)in CDO
Hi phil – Thanks for stopping by and leaving your comment! Hey, I drive here all the time! I love driving here! However, if I ever go back to the USA, I’d probably end up in jail for my new Filipino driving style!
[...] Asia to present day independent Republic of the Philippines. My strong recommendation is to visit Mindanao.com for safety review. My advice: Do Not rely on your government advisory warning. Instead, ask the [...]
Hi Bob, Great Blog you have i`m a frequent reader here!I would like too comment and vouch for the safety of Mindanao, and more importantly to me Davao! Its very safe and friendly here and i`ve made 3 visits to date and have not once felt unsafe or threatened! If you are sensible and follow locals advice you will always be safe here, so ppl enjoy this amazing place and have fun.
Hi Rick – Thanks for backing me up on the safety issue! I’m glad to have you on board!
Hi Bob. This is my first time posting here, and I’m thinking about traveling to Mindinao, to a place called Tubod, and also to Surigao to meet a couple of girls I’ve met online. I’ve been to the Philippines before, but only places like Cebu and Manila. I see some info above about Surigao and nothing about Tubod. Do you have any info about Tubod or more recent info about Surigao? Have you even heard of Tubod? I’m thinking about traveling in the May timeframe. Thanks.
Hi Lars – I have lots of up to date information on Surigao here in my blog. Tubod? Tubod is in Lanao del Norte. Sure, I’ve heard of it. That’s where the Mindanao Civic Center is. If you have not traveled much in Mindanao (I guess none!), I would not recommend that you go down there. For a seasoned traveler, it’s probably an OK place to visit. As a rule of thumb, I generally recommend that foreigners in Lanao del Norte don’t venture south of Iligan City. Maybe your friend could meet you in Iligan, and you could stay in a hotel there. I doubt there is too much accommodation in Tubod anyway.
Enjoy your trip, Lars!
Hello,
I am planning to travel to Luzon and have heard rough things about the Southern region. Have you traveled to Luzon before, and would you say it is any more/less safe than Mindanao?
Thanks!
Hi Jonathan – We don’t really discuss Luzon here, but…
Yes, of course I have been to Luzon. I personally feel that there are places in Luzon that are as dangerous as places in Mindanao. I don’t consider Mindanao to be dangerous on the whole, so I have a hard time answering your inquiry.
Bob,
I have found the postings here very informative and quite reassuring. I have been to the Philippines many times, but never to the Island of Mindanao based on the State Department warnings. I have a friend I have been seeing and I have been promising to visit her and am now planning on visiting in Bukidnon. Should I have any worries? Is there an airport in Bukidnon or should I let her arrange travel from the nearest airport?
Hi Jon – I personally wouldn’t worry about those State Dept warnings. I think that they are mostly groundless. Bukidnon is quite peaceful and safe, I go there often, you have no worries there, in my opinion. Depending on what part of Bukidnon you will visit, you should fly in to Davao or Cagayan de Oro.
Hi Bob,
have just been invited to visit the area around and just north of the northern lake Mainit(?) do you have any particular comments about this area in terms of security/safety
thanks
Hi ben – that area is safe.
Hi, Bob. Thanks for the blog. I’m going to visit my sister in Jolo in late May (from NY). I haven’t been to Jolo since the 60’s so I would appreciate it if you could give me updates on the situation there.
Thanks much.
Hi Maria – The situation in Jolo is quite critical these days. Unless it is absolutely necessary, I would recommend putting off such travel for now.
Bob–I think you explained the situation well. I lived on the outskirts of Cagayan de Oro for almost 3 years 2005-2007. I lived in a seaside community around some very poor people and there were lots of jokes about selling me to the guys in Sulu but no one ever took the opportunity. The best safety advice I got (from a bodyguard who worked for Del Monte execs when it was american-owned) was to get to know all my neighbors and treat everyone respectfully. it’s the Philippines, it’s crowded and everyone knows everyone so a criminal can’t be anonymous, this can help keep you safe provided people know you as a person not as an anonymous foreigner (“dollarface” as someone in Manila called me once). The very real danger is traffic accidents. Rich people in SUV’s drive like they can kill pedestrians without consequence (they basically can), jeepneys are loaded far beyond their brake pads’ capacity, taxi drivers often rent their cars for 24 hour shifts, there is no drunk driving law, 18 wheelers share the road with pedal taxis which are prone to taking sudden u-turns across 4 lanes to pick up a fare. I also agree with you to stay out of ARMM unless you have some pretty important work to do there, if your friends are forced to pay a ransom for you that money will go towards very bad things such as bombs that kill Filipinos. But by all means people should travel to the beautiful island and enjoy the smart hardworking welcoming fun-loving people who live there. Get to Siargao while the “Mindanao” fear keeps those beautiful waves from being any more crowded with surfers.
Hi Matt – I agree with you completely! You have a good handle on the situation. See you in Siargao?
Raymond would like to know of service that you talked about starting. In cdo .please send any info you have. Thanx RICK
I am sorry, Rick, but I don’t know what you are talking about. Could you be more specific so that I can figure it out and answer you?
hi bob I wonder if you recieved my mail earlier today. coz I haven’t heard from you yet! God bless
Hi Jam – Yes I got your e-mail. I get hundreds of e-mails, and I will answer it as soon as I can. Just give me enough time! Thank you for writing!
Hi bob,
My wife & I are planning to goto Dakak…I believe its somekind of resort called Zamboanga Del Norte…Should i have any concerns? Tips? We will be going there around mid week of June…
Thank you, Keep up the great work you do!
Hi Ryan – You don’t need to be worried about visiting Dakak. It’s a safe place. I just came from that area yesterday!
Hi,
I’m planning in visiting Iligan City later this year, I’ve heard that it’s a nice and safe place. I just would like to double check for peace of mind.
Thanx
Hi Ben – I suppose I have written at least 100 times on this site that I do believe that Iligan is a very safe place to visit. I just got home from Iligan myself.
Check here for an article about Iligan safety.
Hi Bob
Thanks very much for that, i should really read all the above comments lol. Now i’m just waiting for that day when i will finally arrive in Iligan, can’t wait!!!!
Hi Bob,
Really interesting page and useful!
I´m thinking of spending some time again in Mindanao (been there last year in Davao, CDO, Kidapawan).
Trying to get a festival during July, probably in Ozamis which I think is safe, but then I want to visit some areas around.
Have u been/any reference of Marawi, Lake Lanao, south to Parang, east to Pagadian or even Bongo Island (seems interesting from google earth
) ??
Thanks!
Hi Lluis – Yes, Ozamiz should be considered safe.
I have been to Marawi, Lake Lanao, Parang and Pagadian, some of them many times. I would not, however, recommend these places (except Pagadian) to a casual traveler who is not experienced in these areas.
When you say “Bongo Island” – do you mean Bongao in Tawi Tawi? Because I’ve never heard of Bongo Island before. I have indeed been to Bongao, Tawi Tawi, it’s a beautiful place.
Going to Ozamiz, Kidapawan, Davao and such are fine, very safe. Many of the other places you mentioned, though, I would not recommend unless you have established contacts in the area who can guide you a bit.
Hi Bob! Thanks for your fast reply!
Well I´ve seen Bongo island just looking maps, is south west of Parang, not really far, maybe a few hours in banca.
Which other places can you recommend around Mindanao (aside from Davao-Bukidnon-CDO) which I´ve visited. Looking for something non touristic so I´ll skip Camiguin,…
I´ve read also about Mt Parker-Lake Holon near GenSan, have u been there?
Sorry for so many questions, just trying to get ideas about places to visit.
Thanks!
Hi Lluis – How about a trip to Balut Island, which is about 2 hours fast craft ride from GenSan? They just recently opened up the fast craft travel to Balut, and that would be quite a remote area to visit. There have been few people who have gone there before!
Mmmmmm seems a good place to visit! Will try to find info about it and see if I can make it with Ozamis festival. Thanks a lot for your advice!
A pity this year I can´t go back to Kadawayan.
Thanks again!
Bob,
I wanted to thank u for all ur help with site infor about Gingoog City. Katleen and I r together here in Calif and we were married April 6th 2008. I could not be happier.
I have used ur shopping service (WOW) for flowers 1 time to Katleen and 1 time we sent flower to her mother for Mothers Day. Both times it went perfect. So I am a very happy customer and concider this site as a site of friends as well as extremely helpful I have recommended ur site and services to several friends.
Keep up the good work. Now I just need a few more yrs and we will retire to Gingoog City and we can relax and enjoy life a little.
Cannot wait to return for a 4th time this yr
Hi Luke – Thanks for your nice comment! I am glad that you made it to Gingoog City and things worked out well for you. I have been to Gingoog myself, it’s a beautiful area! Also, thank you so much for using our WowPhilippines service for your gift giving. If you ever order through Wow and need any personal attention or assistance, feel free to contact me any time!
Take care!
SAFETY SITUATION IN ZAMBOANGA AND TAWI TAWI????
We’re two people going to those areas to do a short documentary film about the sea gypsies. What can you say about the safety? What do you think about going there to film (not big production, to women and a camera).
We’ve heard that recently a film crew was kidnapped in that area – do you anything about that?
THANKS for sharing your updates – it’s a great and necessary help, unfortunately it’s quite hard to research this.
Best regards,
Christina and Gitte, Denmark
Hello Gitte – I would not be concerned about going to Zamboanga City. However, headed south into the islands of the Sulu Sea is not advisable at this time, IMHO. You are correct, a kidnapping just occurred in that area. If you wish a more detailed security report, you may order one for $49.99 and I will prepare a detailed report for you.
Bob is right. At the moment Basilan and south is a bit treacherous. Several relatives of my extended family were kidnapped not so long ago but are safe and sound now. To be honest though Zamboanga City is a entirely different story.
If you stop there Id recommend the Lantaka hotel.
Oh and stop and have dinner at the Greenfields Mano Mano!
The rooms are clean, cheap and the pool is very nice!
Good fortunes on your travels!
Hi Bob, I contacted you a week or so ago about hotels. Now i am wondering if you can give me any advice in iligan city. I was there two years ago but recently i heard people have been getting kidnapped because of the upcoming elections. As a caucasian foreigner i am concerned. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank You.
John
Hi John – A couple of points:
1. I have heard of no such increase in kidnappings in the Iligan area. Can you point me to any published sources of the information, because I simply have never heard this. As a matter of fact, I know of no kidnappings in Iligan, or near Iligan within at least the past decade.
2. There are no “upcoming elections” in Iligan. The upcoming elections are in the ARMM, which Iligan is not a part of. Even with the elections in the ARMM, I have heard of no such activities anywhere near Iligan.
Honestly, I would have no such concerns about going to Iligan.
[...] a damn redirect!), Bob has turned his lucrative domain into an online resource. He even offers a free safety report to anyone who wants to go the area, a service that works because of Mindanao’s current [...]
Hey Bob,
Great stuff. I’m potentially planning on being in Mindinao in November, particularly in Biao (?). What do you think? Someone I know in Cebu city is setting up my itinerary, and I just wanted to hear your thoughts. Thank you again for your blog. Very helpful & reassuring.
Hi Jason – I am unaware of any “Biao” in Mindanao. There is a Biao in the Visayas (in Negros). If there is such a place in Mindanao, please give me an idea of where it is.
You wouldn\’t believe how much time this post has saved me, thanks!
This is the first time I came across your website. I was looking for safety tips on travelling to Mindanao and the advisories really look glum. I love Mindanao, at least, what I’ve seen of it. I have gone there several times on official trips and once when I was doing research on a paper. Sad to say, even Filipinos have apprehensions about the place. It is quite refreshing to read about it from someone who sees it as a beautiful place. Could I quote your very encouraging piece “Can I travel to Mindanao? Is it safe?” I am really glad you see it as you do. And what you said about using common sense – I totally agree that one needs a lot of it when travelling, whether in Mindanao or elsewhere. I have seen Basilan and Dapitan in Dipolog, and loved these places for the lush scenery all around. Recent situation, however, further lends a negative picture of the place to many.
Hi Jessie- thanks for sharing your thoughts. Please feel free to link here, but please do not copy the information to a quote.
Thank you.
[...] one of the posts on my Mindanao Blog, a reader left a comment with a question for me. Here is what he said: Hi Bob. I know you have been all around Mindanao so i [...]
Mindanao is a very beautiful island and is probably more desirable to visit than Manila and Cebu. I have been to Lanao del Norte twice already (soon to be thrice) and at no time during my visit did I feel threatened. I am an Australian and the folks there are very warm to foreigners, especialy the English-speaking ones.
@Franz: good tips there. Indeed, I think that Mindanao is the best place in the Philippines for a visit!
Hi Bob
I am an American married to a filipina now for 9 years,she is from Mandaue in Cebu.Her parents moved to Zamboanga Del Norte Mindanao,they live in the province.We went there in April of this year 2008 to visit,and had a great time there.We had roast pig and goat and chicken and rice plenty to eat.We visited the beach and other places in Dipolog and Sindagan with my wife and her cousins,and i felt very safe the whole time i was there.They told me some places that were not to safe just like you have said,thats because they live there.Anyway her female cousins treated me like a KING while i was there and that really felt good,except for one thing,I am just a country boy from North Carolina a very simple man.The people there are very nice,and Mindanao is a beautiful place,I really like it better than Cebu.When i retire from my work here we are planning on moving there to live,not rushing my life away but can’t wait for that day to come.Good blog Bob and thanks,I will be retireing in 3 and a half years.
Scott
@Scott Gardner: I am happy to know that you enjoyed your visit to Mindanao. Like you, I love Mindanao, and feel it is the best place to visit in the Philippines!
thanks for all the info being posted.i too was worried about visiting the philippines.in bayugan 1.but after getting more info .i feel a lot better about visiting the area.thanks.
@nathan: Glad to be helpful. Enjoy your trip!
I am planning to visit Davao next January. I am a Chinese female and will travel alone. I have visited few counties alone. However, my mother is worry when I mentioned my next destination.
Is it safe for a single female to Davao?
Clara
@Clara: Davao is very safe, you will have no problems.
Thanks Bob, I booked my air ticket to Davao..:)
@Clara: enjoy the trip!
Thanks for your news about Mindanao.Ive been warned by a doctor that has a philippine wife to under no circumstances ever go to mindanao.The problem is my girl friend lives in mindanao.and im planing a trip to see her in surigao del norte she says its safe there but i guess im still a little worried because of that doctor any info on that area is greatly appreaciated thanks allot in advance
@Timm Larson: You can rest assured that Surigao del Norte is no more dangerous than any other part of the Philippines. It’s as safe as most parts of the USA too. I am sure that your doctor friend has your best interests at heart, but I also bet that he has never been to Mindanao himself, and bases what he is saying on anecdotal information. I’ve lived here in Mindanao for a long time, and can assure you that you have no big worries about a trip to Surigao.
Hi Bob,
I wish to visit ilegan city and General Santos City ,do you think they are safe,I know that a Philippine girl friend told me that Ilegan city was attacked by rebels recently ,burning down pension houses etc ,from what I hear I am told that lapu lapu city and cebu is about one of the safest in Philippines .I hear that Mindanao is very pretty !! Your comments are welcome ,
Thanks Gordon Penny
@Gordon Penny: GenSan and Iligan are both safe to visit. With regards to Iligan, the information you got is not really too accurate. The attack was several months ago, and was pretty much isolated to small towns about an hour south of Iligan, not in the City itself. No pension house was burned down.
Actually, most people these days believe that Davao City is the safest City in the Philippines.
Ive never been to Mindanao but ive heard from my step mom from Cebu, Bohol and my friend from Loag city, Luzon said they would never set foot in Mindanao period, and there filipinos who grew up in the Philippines.
@Nate:
Your comment makes me laugh, Nate. You come right out and say that these people have never been to Mindanao (they would never set foot here), yet you accept their advice. How much expertise could they possibly have about Mindanao if they have never even been here before? Frankly, it’s laughable.
Hi my girlfriend and I are planning to travel to Davao , Oriental Mindanao and Samal Island for the Christmas/ New Year period. We are staying with family friends. Currently reports are stating that tens of thousans of people are being evacuated and that conflict bombs and kidnappings are increasing ….Davao is on “red alert” from bomb threats….I really dont know what to believe. Please can someone offer genuine insight into whats going on right now! So i dont have to read articles dating back to 2006 (above)….what use is that!, an update is needed
Thank you
Mat
@mat: To be honest, I am not sure if you are just joking with me and pulling my leg. Right in the first paragraph of the article it gives an e-mail address where you can get my latest security alert by simply sending an e-mail. So to say “I don’t have to read articles dating back to 2006) is just ridiculous.
I don’t know where you are getting your information, but there are no evacuations in the Davao region! Bomb threats? No such thing in Davao. Kidnappings? In Davao? ha ha… you are not getting good information, mat.
Davao is widely considered as the safest City in the Philippines these days.
I don’t know where “Oriental Mindanao” is. Do you mean Davao Oriental? Misamis Oriental?
You ask for someone with “genuine insight.” I have personally lived in Mindanao for 9 years now. It doesn’t get much more genuine than that.
Bob
Thank you for replying so fast. Yes my mistake i did mean Davao Oriental. Your up to date information is very good thank you. I apologise, With all of the research i have been doing on this topic, i confused the fact that it was your link and up to date email that was sent to me. Here are the links to the websites i have been visiting.
http://www.mindanaotimes.com.ph/
http://www.amnesty.or.jp/modules/news/article.php?storyid=540&sel_lang=english
Also do you have any idea of the malaria and typhoid risks in the region?
Thanks
Mat
@mat: I’m glad that you found the e-mail safety info helpful.
Malaria and Typhoid are not generally problems in this area, unless you are intending to visit very remote areas. I would not worry about that.
@mat: By the way, that article that you link to from Amnesty International is nowhere near Davao. That is happening in places like Maguindanao, Lanao, etc. That really has no impact on Davao.
Hi Bob!
How is safety of general santos city? Planning to visit at christmas time there.
are there some non recommemded area.
And how is area mt matutum to day-visit.
waiting for your comments
@vallas: GenSan is safe, I would not expect any problems there. The Dole area out around Mt. Matutum is fine for day trips.
I had my first visit to the philippines and it was in mindinao of course in the northern part Butuan city and the augusan del sur area. I totally enjoyed ever minute of the visit and the people . best food i ever ate.. And got married too. Love the people there will be back in march also visited camiguin island was cool visit for a day trip.
Hi Ron Williams – I’m glad that you had a good trip. Mindanao is a beautiful place!
Hi Bob,
I am planning to visit my ex-domestic help – who is really like family – in Mindanao. How is Maranding, Lala Lanao Del Norte? Is it ok for two girls to travel there on our own? Thanks for your time and help on this!
)
Hi Val – Lala is a marginal area. I’d advise that you go as far as Iligan and stay there.
Bob,
I truely enjoy ur site. I have been to Mindanao 3 times between June 07 and March of 08. and will be returning again later this year. Ever trip has been wonderful. The food and people are great. I wish that the news media and US State department would truely look at and visit places like Gingoog City,CGO, and Davao. The bad press is causing people to fear nothing and miss out on a trip that will bring smiles for yrs to come.
My next trip will be for my wife and I to visit her parents and family now that we are married and she has her green card. The only thing that is worrying us now is the flooding up north and our worry that family and friends are in harms way.
But thanks Bob for ur great advise over the last couple of yrs..
Hi Luke – It’s great to know that you have enjoyed Mindanao so much over the past couple of years! I hope that if you ever make it down to Davao you will look me up!
BTW, it looks like the weather situation in Northern Mindanao is improving now.
Hi Bob, great to have this article from you. Yeah~ i did.. i have same article promoting Mindanao/Davao still a Land of Promise.
I am from Mindanao and now working abroad, here I know that the Philippine government has been working very hard to advertise the Philippines to entice and invite foreign tourists to visit our island in the Pacific. You can see ads on TV, posters, video presentation, and billboards all about the beautiful tourist spots in the Philippines. Great come-ons have launched such “Wow Philippines, Wow Davao, Highlands to Islands, and many other marketing approaches. And yet, unlike our neighbors Thailand and Hongkong, we have not exceeded 3 million per year visitor mark.
I tried to invite a rich-American guy to spend his summer vacation in the Philippines, he answered me: “Can you guarantee my safety when I come to the Philippines? “. It seems the Philippines is very very dangerous place
Ive added a link to your site and articles to my website. http://www.davaopress.com. Thanks
Yes I agree, i have been to mindanao, I have a bride to be there, I had arived in dipolog, and i was shocked to see some one so eager to grab my baggs but they just wanted to work for a tip, lol my girl didn’t want me to give the man 20pesos i mean here a four dollar tip would of been cheap for a bell hop boy, i felt bad knowing that, although the bag that he grabbed had none of my personal belongings or documents. …..but now lol as i first rode in a motor cab, someone came jump on as we made our way to a bus station, first instint was to kick him off, but my girl wasn’t nervouse, and the cab driver was fine with it, lol and the cab driver seemed to know him, now my girl’s dad lol he came along side on his motor bike not happy but it was fine,……..my destination was Midsalip of zamboanga del sur.
Hi B rodie – It sounds like you had a wonderful trip! I’m glad that you enjoyed yourself.
Yes it is safe to go here in Mindanao. The question is just a matter of narrow road. Mindanao is a good place to come in there are lots of white spots here, virgin islands are still waiting to be discover. War in certain places in Mindanao can be counted there are many places to go and visit in Mindanao. The question is generalizing about Mindanao. Don’t be so ignorant Mindanao is a big place and in fact when there is a war its just on small places.
Mindanao is a place were you can relax, although there are some parts that are in conflict but it is located in remote areas.Apparently not all part of MINDANAO is on conflict..Why do people when they hear the word mindanao they became afraid, these is not a good attitude you know not all people who live on mindanao are terrorist.
Nice thoughts, Jay-r. I like what you had to say.
Hi Bob,
Thanks for all the info. I was in Mindanao last April. My wife and I were married there, and had our reception on the beach. Everyone moved their Bancas out of the way, so we could have it there. We had a huge turn out, lots of friends and relatives. I really can say I love it there. Every one was very nice, and welcomed me into their homes. More then I can say for most cities in the U.S. . I hope to move there one day. My wife is excited to think that we may live near her family. I am sure there are a lot of things I need to learn about before I can move there. Like what are the laws about me staying, can I own a business there? Any way, thanks for the info, not only from you, but from all the people that left messages as well.
Hi Bob,
I was just wondering if, in your opinion, Malaybalay would be a safe place to visit?
I’ve read up on it online quite a bit and it seems like it would be a nice area, but I’d like the opinion of someone more familiar with that area than I am.
In the past, I’ve been to Manila, Quezon City, ect, so I have some knowledge of the Philipines, just not any place that far South.
Kenny
Hi Kenny – You need not have concerns about going to Malaybalay, it is a safe place.
Bob,
Thank you for the advisement
Hi Kenny – Happy to help! Enjoy your trip!
Hi Bob – thank you for loving our place – Mindanao.
All the best!
Hi Bob. Thank you very much for this article. This is a great service to the people of Mindanao and to those who plan on visiting. Cheers to you!! We need more people like you in Mindanao! =)
HI chi – Thank you very much.
Hello Bob, I have been to Carmen in Davao del Norte twice, once in Oct 2007 and once in April 2008, I found the people lovely and the scenery fantastic…always I was accompanied by my G/F or by my Brit mate Bill who has lived in Carmen for the last 8 years…..what I am saying is always take a guide then you will have no problems what ever, having visited most european destinations for holidays before, Mindanoa rates amongst one of the safest places I have been and is certainly the most value for money…..for hospitality / scenery / value / and sheer breathtaking enjoyment…I give it a very credible 10/10…I congratulate you on an excellent site Bob…keep up the good work…I will be there again in May this year for three wonderful weeks…..can’t wait.
Hi Denis Adams – I hope you have a wonderful trip!
Exactly,,,,,SAFE,
Exactly,,,,,SAFE, MILF is NOT NOT NOT terrorist they are good people, good friends.
Hi BOB!! my name is dave, i am from usa,i work and live in Kuwait, met the woman of my dreams here and she is from General Santos, we are now planning on going there to get married, not sure exactly when yet, for we both are working 7 days a week here in kuwait, but soon i hope, i really enjoyed your coments and information on the area, i was one of the ones that was under the impression that it was very unsafe untill i talked with my future wife who assured me that it is safe and i should not worry, then i read your pages here and feel much better now, so when we do come there i would like to look you up friend. Thanks again for a wonderful and informative site here!!!!
Hi Dave – I am happy that you will be making the trip to GenSan, I am sure you will enjoy yourself! I live in Davao, about 2 hours north of GenSan, please do look me up if you make it up this way!
Hi Bob,
I just spent a very memorable 10 days in the philippines…I flew into Manila from Lexington, Kentucky, where I met my fiancee…we stayed in Manila for 2 days then flew to Cagayan De Oro..where we were met by her family and friends…She and her mother had rented us a van for the week and unlike the US it came with a driver..he was a pleasant enough fellow…We left CDO and headed up into bukidnon…In Malaybalay our rented van Broke down..we sat there for about 4 hours waiting on a replacement but I really enjoyed just watching the people passing…After We got the van switched out we drove on to a resort near Valencia…the resort was very nice..I would recommend it to anyone…the name of it was RR Family Spring Resort….there we spent 3 very nice days…where I got introduced to many many family members…From there we then went to her parents home in a very small farming community of which I cannot remember the name…I got to enjoy the afternoon with her parents and grandparents…and also asked permission to propose to their daughter…and DID!!!!….and she said YES!!!…infront of the whole family…well on with the story…we left there that evening and drove back to CDO, to the CHALI Beach Resort…it was also very nice but also ..The beach part was a little overstated..because when it was high tide the was no beach at all…at low tide there was all of maybe 6 feet of beach lol but everything else made up for no beach…after 3 nights there we flew back to Manila… I was not really impressed with manila it was nothing more than any other big city in the world but thats just me….
The part of the trip that really did impress me was the interior of mindanao…such a beautiful place the mountains, the waterfalls, the lush green landscape…and the fruit was like it dropped from heaven..and yes I did try the Dorian…I ate it the only thing i didnt like was the after taste other that that I thought it was good…and I dont want to forget the people…everywhere I went I was treated with respect and everyone was smiling..even those people that were less fortunate always smiling…
In closing I just want to say to anyone that has even the slightest notion to visit Mindanao GO!!!! It will be a treasured memory forever..just dont expect to jump on an interstate highway and drive 70 miles per hour…expect for the pace of life to slow down and just lean back take it all in and enjoy…
Thanks again
Dennis Hearn
Hi Dennis – I am not surprised that you had such a wonderful time in Mindanao! Bukidnon is really a beautiful place, and it is a place that I really love myself.
hi bob
my fiance is from north cotobato tibao m’lang we are planning get married this year my question to you is this i’m european and i pretend to travel in there to marry after i reed your blog i do like to know your opnion how much safe is for me to travel to there?i know any place in earth can happen anything i live in london and lately is crazy with young people stabbing nobody is safe but if you can say a bit more about the place is very good to me because my fiance said this place is ok,thx
Hi jose – I am very familiar with M’lang, I’ve been there a number of times. M’lang is a marginal area. Most of the time I would say it is relatively safe. Sometimes, though, it is in a war zone. I would say that it is safe enough to go to and have a wedding. I would not stay there overnight, though, if I were to advise you. Stay in Kidapawan City, that is not too far away, and is a pretty safe place to stay.
Congratulations on your wedding!
Hi Bob I plan to spend time in Davao in July. My girlfriend will meet me there. She comes from Bislig and is very keen for me to go there with her to meet her Family. I am not so keen on that journey. I know it is a 5 hour journey from Davao to Bislig. I have read your earlier reports that sometimes buses are held up by bandits. Your general advice will be much appreciated. Great site Bob
Hi Dan – That trip is relatively safe. Really I would not expect any problems at all. Bandits? In the time I’ve been here (9 years) I am not aware of any bus on that route ever having such a problem. I’ve traveled that route a number of times myself.
Hi bob,
I’m a Davao boy who’s now a long time Toronto resident. Next month (or two), I want to see check on my paternal relatives for the first time in these places: Lupon/Mati, Davao Oriental, Molave, Zamboanga Sur and Baybay Leyte. My father travelled this corridor often as a very young man having relatives scattered in the area. Now my question, these days is there a way to travel by land this side of Mindanao direct and is there a ferry plying Zamboanga and Leyte area? I will appreciate any answer you can give.
Thanks,
Pete
hi bob
thanks for your site, im iranian i well go to cotabato city for 3 months, , its safe city, in center of cotabato, last year i beed in sto tomas batangas its rally nice place, but about mindanao i dont know, spl about abousayaf , and comonist party and suhon catolic gruop liveing in minadano, its trou or not, and just i wont know how mach cousting taxi fay form davai to cotabato city .
thanks lat god bless
Thanks Bob. I know this post came in 2006, but it is very insightful.
Hi Dave – Happy to be of help.
Bob,
Have you ever been to Agusan Wildlife Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary? It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If so, is travel difficult with regards to safety and logistics (transport availbility) in that area?
Thanks,
Dave
Hi Dave – Indeed, I’ve traveled that area. Safety is not an issue, except that lately they have been having some crocodile attacks in the area.
Logistics can be somewhat difficult, but can be worked out.
Hi Bob.What do you make of the recent bombings of buses and power grids in Mindanao. How is Tagum city as far as safety in comparison to Davao?
Hi Chris – The current situation is business as usual. There have been only a few bus bombings in Mindanao recently compared to the past few years. Power grid bombings have been going on for a decade, nothing unusual.
Tagum, as part of the Davao Region is generally quiet and safe.
Hi Bob,
I am planning to visit Mindinao to meet a nice nurse I met online. He home town in Davao, but she is a nurse at the Lankan Hospital in Matalm. Is this a safe journey for an American to take? I understand is it a small townand the hospital is located about an hour’s walk from the center of the town. I can’t seem to find much info about the town or the hospital on the internet (the shopital is a private one) and wondered if you might provide me with any information you may have about that area of Mindinao. She has told me that the road between Matalam and Davao is not always safe and since it is not paved, the rain sometimes causes mudslides that make it impassible. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Many thanks Anthony
Hi Anthony – I am familiar with Matalam (I assume you meant Matalam instead of Matalm, because I never heard of that place before). Matalam is a relatively safe place, but there are occasional problems there. I would not worry much about staying there, but would not stay for more than a few days, because the word will get out that you are there, and may end up in the wrong hands.
The road between Davao and Matalam is 100% paved, so I am unsure what your friend is talking about on that. There are ways you can make the trip on dirt roads, but the main highway is a good road all the way, and certainly paved the entire distance.
Hi Bob..I am planning my trip to Bukidnon in October to meet my future wife, after what just happen in Malaybaya how do you feel about travel for an American like myself to Bukidnon..thanks Bob
Hi Eric Ander – It is not something I’d be worried about. I would visit Malaybalay any day.
Hey Mindanao Bob,
Thanks for your blog I have enjoyed reading it. I am going to Gen San in September for my first vist with my long distance love. From your postings I gather Gen San is a relatively safe place to vist for Americans as long as I use common sense and take advise from my gugma ko. I was wondering if you can recommend a good hotel to stay in Gen San for tourists? East Asia, the Dolores? She lives in a Purok near the center of town. What do you think?
Hi Jim S – Yeah, you should experience no problems in GenSan in my opinion. For a hotel there, I’d recommend either East Asia, which is the nicest place in town, or Isla Parilla Resort, which is in Alabel, about 15 minutes out of town. My personal favorite is Isla Parilla.
Kudos Bob for the very objective and helpful site promoting the peace situation in some areas here in Mindanao.For many years Mindanao was been unfairly misjudge by people who have not even visited here.There are only few places here that should be avoided but obviously the whole Mindanao area was generalized.Sad to say that there are many beautiful nature spots her in Mindanao that was been left unexplored because of the unfair misjudgment of the peace situation here in Mindanao.God bless
Hello juliamikaela Thank you very much. I fully agree with what you say!
u know what sir Bob, Pres.GMA should commend you for ur great deed! She should award you for showing the world what Mindanao really is… I’m so happy that a foreigner like you is the one who is promoting Mindanao to the world.. What a great job Sir Bob! You are an angel living in Mindanao Island… Via Con Dios Mi Amigo!!!
Hi marlowe – Wow, thank you very much for your kind words. I am not promoting Mindanao to get praise and such, only because I truly love the place.
Happy Easter to you, marlowe! I hope you had a good Holy Week.
Hafa Adai from Guam,
Yes, I’m marrying my sweetheart at her province (Lingig) in end of May. Yes, I have been warned about going to Mindanao. So, the question is, visiting Lingig safe? I personally don’t believe that Mindanao is dangerous, but I’m little concerned. I have been to Philippines 4 times, but this is my first time to go to Mindanao. Just want to reassure this with you.
Thanks, Ron W.
Bob,
Thank you for all the advise u helped me in visiting, finding my wife and living a dream come true. We are planning on returning to Mindanao later this and might be able to travel down to Davao and was wondering if u could recommend a coupled of hotels that we could select from to stay in.
Luke
Hi Luke – Happy to have been of help to you. For a hotel in Davao, of course it depends on your budget. If you are not worried about money, certainly Marco Polo Hotel is the best that the City has to offer. For budget conscience, you might try We Are Inn.
This blog is so helpfull!, thanks bob
Bob,
Thank you for the heads up. If we have the time I would like to visit Davao, but I know that family visit will come first so that means a visit to Tagum and Davao will be only if there is enough time after meeting with the cousins. But that is OK for it just mean something to c on next trip
Luke
Hi Bob,
Thanks for your site. I met a girl online and I think things are getting pretty serious. She wants me to move there. She lives in Clarin Misamis Occidental Mindanao. How do you feel about that place. Thanks in advance.
Frank
Hi Frank – Are you asking what I think in terms of safety? Yeah, I think it’s OK in that area.
If you want to learn what it’s like to live here in the Philippines, I’d recommend that you visit my other site: Live in the Philippines
Yes…I will thanks.
Hi all.I am a UK citizen visiting my fiacee in Iligan city and as I experienced in Northern Ireland some years ago as a soldier just keep your wits about you.I have been here 2 months now and reluctantly I have to return to UK next week.I am already planning my return to (what I call ) my new home,I will end my days here but it will not be due to MILF (or any other) activity.The people of The Philippines are so caring (and protective).Bear in mind all countries of the world have there misguided and easily lead people……….make of that as you wish ! If you are coming here and show the due respect there is no reason what-so-ever to fell ill at ease . Maraming salamat lahat Philippines. Michael.
Hi. Im planning to visit my girlfriend in Lala, Lanao del Norte in about 2-3 weeks.
Is it safe to go there? How is the best way to travel there from Manila? Are there any reasonable hotels within the region?
Thanks Bob
Hi James – Lala is kind of a marginal area. It is generally safe there, but sometimes there are flare-ups there too. I have been there a number of times, and I don’t hesitate to go there, but just use some caution.
My brother is quite a prankster. He once took some friends from San Diego to go scuba diving in the Philippines. Naturally there was concern about ambush, and hostage taking. So at one military check point, the soldiers questioned his party about their intentions and destination. My brother talked to them in the native language, which made his American friends anxious and very nervous. As soon as they were allowed to proceed, they peppered him with questions. For ten minutes he kept them at the edge of their seats by not giving them straight answers. Finally he stopped the vehicle, faced his guests and said. “Guys, you came very close to becoming hostages. Altough those are soldiers of the Philippine Army, they are not immune from taking bribes from the bandidos in the area. They wanted to take you all. But I talked them out of it.” To the man, his guests wanted to know how, what did he say? Looking them straight in the eyes, he said, ” I told those soldiers, these are my hostages, go get your own.”
Hi Bob,
I am a filipino but grew up in the states so I am to assume i might be looked at as a “foreigner” since my tagalog isnt that great. My question is I met a pinay online and she wants me to visit her and also to meet her family. Her home is in South Cotabato. Thats all she told me, not sure if its a province or city but she just said South Cotabato. All the stories im hearing, im about to ask her if we can meet at a safer location like Davao City or somewhere but am afraid I will insult her. How are things in South Cotabato these days? Better / Worse?
Hi Jomar – South Cotabato is a Province, south of Davao, just outside General Santos City. It includes areas like Koronadal/Marbel, and smaller towns. You can forget about Tagalog anyway, that is not a Tagalog area. Mostly they speak Ilonggo and Bisaya there in South Cotabato. You can safely visit that area, you really should have no special concerns.
Wow, you respond fast… I also copied this down, I believe its her province..
suarez, iligan city, lanao del norte.. do you know where this is and is it safe?
Hi Jomar – Those areas are not part of South Cotabato. Iligan City is part of Lanao del Norte Province. That is very far from South Cotabato. I am not familiar with Suarez. Iligan City is safe, but other parts of Lanao are kind of borderline.
OK, i might have misunderstood her. She attended Misamis University for the last 4 years which I believe is in Ozamiz city. Is Iligan City close by the University?
I will ask her if thats where she lived when she attended the University. But definitely, she said her parents live in South Cotabato. I appreciate all your advice to everyone. Safety is a very important issue.
Hi Jomar – You are jumping all over the Island. Ozamiz is not near South Cotabato. Iligan and Ozamiz are about 2 hours or more apart, including an hour ferry ride. So, no, Iligan is not near Misamis University.
Thank you so much Bob. I will get straight before I fly down there. You are very helpful and people are lucky that you have this site!
baby misamis is part of iligan
shmeisanimacapobres: iligan is a big big city
baby iligan between ozamiz
shmeisanimacapobres: and bukidnon
shmeisanimacapobres: between is iligan….and misamis is part of iligan
this is her actual texts to me on yahoo messenger which i copied bob. im still kind of skeptical about this girl but this is what she said. she took a jeepney from part of iligan to misamis university everyday. she said iligan is a very big city so maybe she was on the outskirts. i appreciate your comments, il have to find out for myself if this girl is lying to me or telling the truth.
Hi Jomar – Well…. Misamis is not part of Iligan (unless there is a part of town that they call misamis). There are two Misamis Provinces. There is Misamis Oriental, which is East of Iligan, about an hour drive. Then there is Misamis Occidental, which is West of Iligan, about an hour and a half to two hours.
Indeed, Iligan is between Ozamiz and Bukidnon. Driving from Ozamiz to Bukidnon, though, is about a 4 hour drive, or more if your vehicle is not modern.
Again, Misamis is not part of Iligan.
Maybe your girl thinks that Iligan is a “big big city” – perhaps she has not seen a bigger place before. However, I assure you that Iligan is only a small town. There are many, many cities in Mindanao that are much larger than Iligan. I live in Davao, and I would guess it to be at least 10x the size of iligan.
I don’t think she is lying to you, Jomar, I think she just has been exposed to nothing bigger than Iligan.
Good luck to you.
Yes she sounds like shes being really honest. I havent caught her in a lie yet. I guess theres one left thing to do and that is to fly there in a few months and find out for myself. Thanks again for all your expertise and information regarding the southern part of Philippines. I would have never ventured down in that area but you seem to know your areas pretty well. Take care Bob. I will make sure I give you an update on what happened with me and my girl Shani.
Take care.
Good luck, Jomar. I would not worry about safety in that area, other than just a normal level of safety concern.
hi,
we are planning to go to dakak this coming may 23 to 26, is it safe to go there.
thanks,
alma
Hi Bob, been dating on the net for near to 2 years now and i would like to join my future asawa in her home city or Valencia, bukidnon, I know the commonsense thing. Can you shed some light on this city in particular, safety wise. Thanks in advance Bob and i am happy there are nice people like you to guide us in our qualm . Thanks
Hi John – You should have no special concerns about Valencia. It’s quite a safe place, IMHO.
thanks Bob, and i appreciate any info that you can bring also, been reading your articles and i can say this, for an American you did some good in Mindanao and you have my appreciation. Some say it’s unsafe and there are crazies everywhere now a days and i seem to not like the fast pace of the City like where i am, it’s very nutty now. My country was a peaceful one but not anymore, gun shots are a regular thing and i need tranquility, Canada has never been this bad before. My future asawa tells me about land for sale and i can see myself doing just that, buying a piece of land and retiring, 45 is a good enough age to be able to see what life is in front of me. any pointers about life there I’d really appreciate. Thanks again for your quick answer.
Hi John,
My number one tip is that if you intend to live here, you really should read my other blog:
http://www.LiveInThePhilippines.com
It is honestly a wealth of information on the topic of living in the Philippines.
Bob.
i am from costa rica. me and a couple of friends is going to bayugan city to visit a friend, is it safe to travel there.. need your advise. thanks
Daphney,
Hello Jhon/Daphney – I would not expect that you should encounter any problems in Bayugan.
Hey man, davao is awesome! i heard someone mention samal island great place, great scuba diving as well. i was there feb and mar 2009. Now as for being safe, oh yeah. if you travel past a certain area on mindanao itself no, then your on your own. i would not recomend traveling 100 miles west of davao city if your an tourist. Believe me you can find plenty to do there in davao city, great place and people..
Hi jimmy – your “recommendation” about 100 miles west of Davao really is not very accurate.
hi bob, is it safe in butuan?
Hi bourjay – No place on earth is perfectly safe. However, in my opinion, Butuan is no more dangerous than most places. I don’t hesitate to go there.
Bob thanks so much for this site. I have lived in Oroquieta City in northern Mindanao for almost a year. I have a small feeding ministry here and we go to Ozamiz to feed the village children. I have videos at my webpage of some of the feedings. We have never had a problem traveling to the villages and are always warmly greeted by locals “Hey Joe”…..is their call to any Westerner.
I married a Filipina and we are expecting a boy in July. Oroquieta City is called “The city of good life”….and I agree with that.
Thanks for doing your share, Bob, to enlighten westerners that it is safe to go to many parts of Mindanao.
God bless,
Tom
Hi Tom – Sounds like you have a wonderful life going there! Congratulations on that! You might enjoy visiting my other site as well, as it is all about living here in the Philippines.
hey bob…i’ve been planning for a two week trip to gensan in january of’ ‘10…i am sure you enjoy writing your blog and i appreciate that you deserve to be paid for specifics on the travel dangers of south mindanaol. your frre stuff leaves quite a bit to the imagination…if you are going to take the time and trouble to write about the dangers of the south…at least give first timers and families a bit of substance. to say “I’ve been there and it was safe” or “stay away from thugs and dark allies” is a bit laughable…anyone with a sense of danger who has been in the military or been a “street guy” here in the states understands that generic stuff. my point? without cashing in your rice bowl on up-to-date dangers warnings in south cotabato….why not give these travelers some specifics for free…re: parts of davao and gensan safe and not…techniques used by purse snatchers, pick pockets, b-girls etc. ways to avoid exposure to hepa and hepb, and typhoid…joints and areas to avoid…ways of travel that invite mugging or physical attack…techniques for dressing properly, hiding cash and papers on the body, in the hotel….ettiquette in public places that prevents offence to the locals.
your intentions are the best…but how about a little “meat and potatoes” that novice s.e. asia tourists can use immediately? just a respectful suggestion. one simple idea could make a big difference to somebody.
thanks for your mindanao mag articles…you have a great writing style..
jiggs
jiggs – Take a look over on the right side of the site. It specifically says that I can provide you with specific information about your area of travel for $49.
Enough said?
I am an american and lived with my wife in Bangkal Davao and also in mangagoy for years.Never felt any threat in anyway.In fact the opposite-very peaceful in Davao and in Mangagoy which is 5 hours from Davao if heading towards Butuan.
Hi Will – Thanks for your comment. I fully agree with your assessment.
Hi Bob, this is a really great site. Thank you for enlightening other tourists that the Philippines is a beautiful and safe country despite the other downsides(which i believe any country has). I had a British boyfriend who I met here in the Philippines while he was on a project. I am just sorry that he did not fell in love with the country and ultimately our long distance relationship fizzled out…But that is ofcourse a totally different story.
I just wanted to share with you and your readers about Dakak Resort. It is located in Dapitan City. It is a very beautiful place to visit. The resort is a complete haven in intself. But around the area are still other places that tourists will find interesting( e.g. 15 minutes away from Dakak Resort is our national hero Jose Rizal’s place in exile).
Although my first and last visit was 4 years ago, I do believe it is as safe a place to visit as it was then.
Well, cheers to you and I do hope you continue to be an “ambasssador of goodwill” for my country. It always is more credible when a “disinterested” third party says good things about another.
Hi Judy – I am very familiar with Dakak, I’ve featured it on this site before! Thank you for bringing it up again, it is a beautiful place!
I’m sorry that your relationship didn’t work out. There are other fish in the sea, though, and I’m sure you will catch one soon!
IT ISN’T SAFE NOW
IT ISN’T SAFE RIGHT NOW
I HAVE FAMILY IS PROSPERIDAD, SO FAR 6 VILLAGERS HAVE BEEN KILLED AND MY FATHER-NLAW WAS SHOT AT WHILE WORKING ON HIS FARM. NEEDLESS TO SAY HE CANNOT HAVERST NOW.
THE MUSLIMS HAVE OVER RUN THE AREA AND THE PINO ARMY HAVE NOT ENOUGH HELP TO KEEP US SAFE
Honestly, Bruce… there really are not any, or very few Muslims in Agusan del Sur… so I am not sure where you are coming from wiht this.
is pagadian city ,safe to traval to from the airport ,thx
Hi jake – Sure, you should have no problems.
I have a friend whom I’d like to visit in Salug, Zamboanga del Norte, she tells me that it is not safe for foreigners to visit there? I was surprised that she would say that considering that the area is predominately christian. Your thoughts?
Hi Gary – Whether an area is Christian or Muslim really has nothing to do with it’s safety. Plenty of Muslim areas are very safe. That said… Zamboanga del Norte is generally a safe area to visit, although you should always take normal precautions wherever you go in the world.
hi bob, im coming to meet my girlfriend in manila then we are going to fly to cagayan de oro city,then drive to gingoog..just wondering if the drive to gingoog is safe? thanks bob..
Hi gary – Going from CdO to Gingoog is safe. I mean, the area is safe, there are not bandits along the highway and such. I am not sure if you mean that YOU will do the driving. If you have never driven in the Philippines, you may be best to hire a driver, or take some sort of public transportation (bus?), because if you haven’t driven here, well… it could be challenging for you.
I was in Mindanao, General Santos City, in 2007. It was very nice and the people are very friendly. I had a great time, felt very safe and welcome. My wife is from General Santos City and we are planning on moving there in the next few years. As in any place you must be smart and don’t put yourself in situations that can change that safety.
Steve, Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Just back from my first trip to the Philippines. I arrived in Manila June 19 and after a couple of days, flew to Davao and then took a taxi to Tagum. Stayed seven days there with another day trip to Davao (try the pizza at Yellow Cab Pizza in SM mall, some of the best pizza I have ever eaten!) and then flew to Cagayan de Oro from Davao. Stayed three nights there at a nice beach resort called Appletree. Try the chicken filet bunwich, delicious!
After the initial “culture shock” and coping with the jet lag, I enjoyed my stay and had a safe trip with no safety problems whatsoever (except possibly the exciting taxi rides in traffic, haha). I did have many people praying for me.
The people were very nice and friendly although very shy. I found Tagum to be a relaxing place and stayed in a nice hotel called the Golden Palace. Try the crab sticks, also delicious. I also attended a very nice church (Tagum Fundamental Baptist Church.) Weather was fine for the most part.
Hi David, nice that you had a good trip to Mindanao!
Hi Bob, I’m thinking about visit my girlfriend in Pagadian City around Christmas time, but I’ve heard things about the safety of a white person going to the Philippines around the holidays, I’m about to make my flight reservations pretty soon, I’m going to meet her in Cebu and I’ve been questioning if it’s safe for me to go there alone. I know there is probably some areas that it’s best to stay away from when I get there.
Hi Ed – I think you will be perfectly fine in Pagadian. Enjoy your trip.
Hi Bob, Thanks for your advise, I hear it’s hot there for now and it should be a little cooler around Christmas time, have a good summer.
Hi Ed – Ha ha.. here in the Philippines summer is from February through May… Summer is long gone for me!
Seriously… down this far south, near the equator, the temperature is fairly constant throughout the year. It really won’t be any cooler at Christmas time than it is now. Up in the northern and central parts of the Philippines, they get more of a temperature swing shift during the year, but now down here in Mindanao, especially the southern part of Mindanao where you are going.
hi, bob, I am so glad I found your site. problem is that thru my church here in Oregon I have met my fiancee, our priest is a Filipino, my girls family all live in oroquieta city. I am going to retire and feel that I would do well in ph-I . our priest says that oroquieta city is not safe for Americans and that there is a threat of being kidnapped. my girl says that there are a lot of Americans there and there is no problem. I have lived in Vietnam and Korea and know the ropes, but being kidnapped has really got me concerned. Any comment would be greatly appreacheated
Hi dale – I suspect that your Priest means well, but has probably never been to Mindanao. You should not have any problems in Oroquieta.
Right now Id avoid any areas in Mindanao near Zamboanga City. I go there fairly regularly now and its safe enough if you have friends but I still spend most of my time locked away at my wifes family estate. Lovely enough place though:D Most of the Philippines are extremely safe in my opinion. Personally I plan to settle near Dumaguete! SO BEAUTIFUL! Weathers awesome and the people are so friendly there. Not to mention you get to meet a lot of foreigners:D
Bob, my wife and I returned to Gingoog City. She left 15 months ago (single) and returned a (Married lady) everyone was happy and had a great time. But there is so much for me to learn about this beauty Island. Like you I find this to be paradise. Next trip I have promised myself a trip down south. So next yr maybe Katleen and I can take u to lunch and I can finally meet u face to face. Thank u for all the advise u have shared with me. I just wish that there was some way to get the press to tell the real story about Mendinao and its warm friendly people rather than the horror stories they seem to want to spread.
Sorry about the misspelling of Mindanao. It has been a long day
Hi Luke – I will look forward to seeing you next year!
Hi Bob,
Thanks for the info on this site.
I was planning on going to davao city by plane from the US, then after arrival taking airport van to stay in Mati City a few days to visit a friend.
As a white guy will it be safe for me in the Mati City area ?
I notice I can’t seem to find any major hotels in Mati City. Any safe hotel recommendations would be appreciated.
thanks very much.
Hello Leo – Yeah, you will be safe. Keep in mind, Mati is just a tiny little town! You won’t find much in the way of hotels there – major or otherwise.
Bob, in Oct. i will be traveling to maramag, bukidnon with my finacee and staying with her family. Are you familiar with that area? Im curious to know about the area and if its a place to excercise caution. Salamat
Hi Bret – Yeah, I am quite familiar with Maramag, and the surrounding area. I have traveled extensively in that particular area. If you need safety information or travel information from the area, I can gladly advise you on that. There is an ad on the front page of my site for obtaining such information beyond what is already offered on the site.
IS Pigcawayan in Mindanao? And is it safe to travel too?
Bob i am engaged to a lady in zamboanga city i met her in march in manila was told how dangerous the place was by so many filipinas living in USA my late wife was also from zaboanga city i have bee there 2 times and at the time felt verysafe so i will go by my gut instincts next time and thank you for the advice you give by the way how long do you think it will take to get interview for my fiancee at embasy we file may 20 2009
Hi Larry – Zamboanga City is OK, you should not really fear the place.
Regarding the visa… I can’t really say. It’s my 19th Marriage anniversary today… that means it’s been a VERY long time since I’ve done a visa filing at the Embassy. It took 4 months when we did it, but that was so many years ago that it is basically meaningless now! Sorry I can’t really give you better information on that.
hello bob.im also friend with you on friendster.ive been getting a lot of info that mindanao is safe and not safe.eventually i plan to make a trip to bayugan city to get married.just wondering even though i know mindanao is not safe,but how safe would you think bayugan city is?i mean do i have to worry about anything?or can i go there and enjoy my stay and not be paranoid?my fiance has been telling me there has been several crimes.a lot down the road she lives.but nothing to do with foreigners.a lot of her cousins and friends are marrying foreigners and once has been married recently in the past month or 2.but im just curious to rather or not if ill be ok in that area or should i be extremely careful?
Hello Bob. My family and I are going in November and stay around Cagayan de Oro close to the airport. We are also planning on staying at a beach resort like Duka Bay Resort or Cha-LI beach resort. Do you know if it is safe in Cagayan de Oro and these beach resort areas or should we avoid going to the resorts all together and just stay in a good hotel around Cagayan de Oro. Can you also advise on a great place to stay?
Hi Eric – The places you mentioned should be no problem for you.
Hi Bob!
My email to safety@mindanao.com got bounced twice so I thought I might try to contact you this way…
I came across your site and blogs while trying to research going to Marawi and Tugaya. My husband and I are currently in Davao city, as part of a 2 month trip to the Philippines. Have just enjoyed the Kadayawan festival – it was brilliant and I think I can count on one finger the number of other tourists we saw! We liked it so much we were thinking about doing a little bit more cultural traveling in Mindanao rather than going straight back to the beach at Siargao.
We saw a lot of the Maranao tribe performances and investigating further found they are centred around Marawi, Turagay and Lanao del sur. As such we just wondered on your views around safety in this area. In adition any specific suggestions of places to go or stay would be really welcome – there is so little information about and our lonely planet doesn’t even cover the area!
An background weve previously travelled from Rio de Janeiro to LA by land through the amazon, colombia and central america, so we have some experience with rough(ish!) places, but none in Mindanao excpet for Davao.
Many thanks for any help
Regards, Emelie
Hello Emelie – I have been to both Tugaya and Marawi, and I can tell you that if you visit those places, and you enjoy Muslim culture, you are in for a treat. However, don’t downplay the danger. Those places are not a hike in the park, and there is a chance you could stay longer than you planned – by getting kidnapped. Make sure you have a good guide who has very good contacts. Don’t let many people know where you will be going either. There is plenty of info on my site about both Marawi and Tugaya, if you search. If you want a more thorough security evaluation for the trip, I charge $29.99 for that. Just let me know if I can assist you with that.
Enjoy the journey. But… do it with extreme caution.
I’m from Camiguin…and trust me…it’s safe…Nice article, Bob..Been reading some posts lately…first time to post…
Bob,
In answer to Larry on how long for the K1 visa from the time of application. My wife had her interview Feb 2008 after i applied 7/3/2007. And we have several friends that have just gotten to Calif. and the time for them is running 6-9 months if there are no problems, after the wedding here, the green card time seems to run 5 to 10 months again with no troubles.
Hope that this helps
hi bob do you understand the uk travel advice to mindanao? we are going to ozamis but not sure if travel insurance covers you . can u help thanks
Hello robert – I think that the UK (and US, Australia, etc) travel advice for Mindanao is crazy. There are parts of Mindanao that should be avoided, but the bulk of the island is quite safe. I don’t know about travel insurance, sorry.
Hello Bob.
In April I was in Cavite, Bacoor, Baclaren, Manila and Butuan; with my Fiance’.
I am renting a house in Butuan where my Fiance is currently living. In October 2009 I will bne there for the Interview, and an extended visit at the same time.
The plan was to fly into Cagayan De Oro, and then take the Bachelor Bus for 5 to 6 hours bus ride, North to Butuan. And of course, the same return route probably.
I have read many conflicting reports about Mindanao; but I am comfortable flying into CDO. My main concern is the bus ride to Butuan on the Bachelor bus.
My Fiance says there are no worries and she is planning to meet me in CDO and ride with me.
Is that bus route safe for a white guy, or any other non-muslim?
Bob,
Wow how lucky you are to live in such a wonderful place. I recently got back from Butuan City and it was the best week of my life. I stayed in Butuan and Taligman and I saw troops in armored cars and such but everyone there was wonderful to me. The people were so nice and I want to come back and live in Taligman or Ampayun. It is a site to see all the jeepneys and trikes and take a trip in them but I love everything about the whole country even if there is a lot of poverty the people are so wonderful and live such a good life. My Finacee’s family which is quite big rolled out the red carpet and I bought them so much stuff for their house and everyday when I call her I hear someone from her family say thank you. I love the Philippines and the people so much I wish everyone could go there once. Anyone who is thinking about going there dont be worried about your security I went alone and I had no problems whatsoever it’s like anywhere else just use your common sense.
missing the Phils,
Danny
Oh i saw one person here ask about Butuan City too so I hope he reads my post. Also if you want a great place to stay for a good price the Inland Resort Hotel is one of the best places I have ever stayed and it is in the heart of Butuan City near the Gaisano Mall.
Mindanao is it safe. I spent 3 weeks in Mindanao in November 2008. I was in what is referred to as CDO Cagayan De Oro. The city and the people are great. It is called “The City of Golden Friendship” and I would recommend to anybody to travel there. To those that have been to Manila you will find CDO a big step up. The town is much nicer then Manila in every way. Nobody tried to rip me off. The markets show prices and don’t try to rip of tourists. The cabs are mostly new Toyotas Camry’s and the drivers give correct change and are very polite.
I have an Australian friend that now lives there. He and his lady purchased a beach house and love lying on the beach and in the water in the late afternoon. I stayed with them for the 3 weeks. We visited another westerner living north of there. He has a house near the water on a hill. A position that would cost millions in Australia. His cost was the building of the house as his wife a Pilipino already owned the land, around $60,000 AUD. Talk about paradise.
Which brings another question about the women. Well the local girls are if from a different planet. The Pilipino woman is the last real woman in this world. They are very feminine, passionate, soft and gentle. They know how to please and look after a man, they are very subservient but this must never be taken advantage of. They are very easy to love and once you have fallen for one you will be hooked for life. Its called “Asian Passion” As one American service man said when asked why Pilipino women his answer was “because they get you through the heart” I have written a book on my experiences but to date unpublished.
My wife to be this month is from the very same island. A wonderful 30 year old woman myself 65 and she from Pagadian City in the south, a place where I can’t go. Love came easy and the passion is beyond anything I have ever experienced anywhere before and could be said to die for. Of course there is the exception but I have never found any.
Take my advice guys, go to Mindanao CDO; you won’t regret it I can assure you.
Hi Sterling – In my opinion, you should have no problems on that route. I have traveled the same route a number of times. It’s a safe area, and I would expect nothing out of the ordinary. There is no issue regarding being Muslim or non-Muslim. There are very few Muslims in that part of Mindanao anyway.
Enjoy your trip!
Hi Danny – I’m glad you had a nice trip! There are parts of Mindanao where you really do need to worry about your safety, but not in the Butuan area!
Hello Colin – Most of Mindanao is quite safe, but there are parts that are not.
I’m happy that you enjoyed your visit!
Hi Bob, 6 yrs now in mindanao in Davao City, Mati, Marbel (koronadal). I have seen more trouble and bloodshed in London and its my belief that there is another motive for these warnings. (not quite sure what). However I don’t want to get political here. My own opinion is i guess much the same as your own. I now call mindanao home and I would not feel more safe and secure anywhere else in the world.
I want to quote something to these people who ask is Davao a safe place.
If you are doing an illegal act in my City,
If you are a criminal or part of a syndicate that preys on the innocent people of the City.
For as long as I am the Mayor, you are a legitimate target for assasination!!!
Rodrigo Duterte
Davao City Mayor
February 2009
Yes davao city is very safe. It’s the most popular place to live in South East Asia. Serious crime is virtually non-existant and bad behaviour is not tolerated either by locals or visitors.
Mayor Duterte has changed the face of Davao City and it is now largely dependant on foreign visitors for its wealth. Therefor you are protected with the full power of the law, as long as you yourself behave.
By and large if you are a white guy in Davao, or anywhere else in Mindanao, you are “God”. Enjoy but please don’t take advantage of that. Please treat people with the respect they deserve and you will find that they will show you that although they may be poor … they have a richness that is beyond your comprehension … it’s called “quality of life” … and you can’t buy that.
Please visit Mindanao, I promise you that you will see more terror and violence in your own country, and you will wonder as i do why the likes of the U.S.A and British Governments put such B/S on their websites. Visit and find out why many of us foreigners call it home and never want to leave.
Alfie
G.M.B.I
2nd mobile group
Tugbok. P.N.P
I must say, Alfie… I agree completely!
Hi,
I came across a link to your page here off of wikipedia… I’m from the USA, near Harrisburg, PA. I’ve been to Manila, Cebu, and also to Mindanao, flying into Butuan and going to visit my then girlfriend, now fiancee and wife in 8 days, southeast of Prosperidad. My mother knows a lot of Filipinos here in the USA and was admittedly a bit worried about my visit here… also the state dept. warnings didn’t help matters.
What I found was different then anything I’ve seen on my world travels thus far. We took the bus down to her place, it was an interesting experience to say the least… and kinda cramped for me, since I am nearly 6 feet tall. Not good for a inside jeepney, lol. The hospitality I received was unlike any I have experienced anywhere on earth. Her family and the neighbors were very nice and the whole local “town” came out to meet me, we shared some food and San Miguels and had a few hours of videoke, it was quite fun! I didn’t feel any danger at any point on my visit.
Only later did I find out that I was the first white person that some of them had seen in their entire lives! Talk about off the beaten track! ^_^
I will be leaving in 5 days to head back there for the civil ceremony, I’ll be returning for our church wedding in Nov… I hope I give a good 1st impression of USA people to all of them, if they haven’t met any of us before. We’re going to Camiguin and Cagayan de Oro, which I know are good to visit. She mentioned activity going on S. of Prosperidad heading down the road towards Davao and she’s only been there once… and she had made some comments about Gen. Santos- we’re not going there but I was curious about other places on the island that are in my Philippines guidebook. Hopefully I will still have my job with the Airlines and will be able to return to see more of the island! Our 2 week honeymoon is going to be hitting most of the middle Philippines, which she hasn’t visited (except Cebu)
It doesn’t hurt to ask more people, especially since you are also on the island. I will bookmark your page here and share it- the guidebook and you mention the reaction people from other parts of the Philippines have when you mention “Mindanao”- I’ve seen this to be true with my own eyes, which is really too bad. There’s a lot to see here and I look forward to seeing more of it in November.
Things are still good up in the NE where I mentioned, right? Thanks for your time and keep up the good work!
Jason
Why my are my comments always get deleted? It wasn’t offensive in anyway.
I was in Mindano for a missions trip. I journeyed from Cagayan to Iligan, making a stop in Initao. I left from Iligan and went back to Cagayan and traveled the interior to Valencia. I spent a week in Valencia and travled to many surrounding remote areas. I was the first “white” that many had ever seen. But the all were kind and friendly. I was treated as a “king” in their homes. Most in the extreme poverty areas…still they sacrifice and buy me “3 in 1″ coffee and bread for my coffee. I was the greatest experience of my life, and I can’t wait to go back.
Hi! I would ask what will be the safe way to go to Maitum, if I am from Manila? And if we would conduct an archaeological excavation on Maitum.. are there any available military troops to be hired as protection? or can we rely on the local policemen?
Hi Johnp – in my opinion, that should be considered safe.
Hi Bob, I am an American planning on visiting my fiance and 6 month old daughter for the first time in PI. She’s living in Tago, Surigao del Sur and I know very little about the area. I would like to know if it is relatively safe there as well as any nice tourist locations in that area. I appreciate the blog, I don’t know how else to thank you for providing a means to stop the many concerns of our government, especially the US Army.
Hi Miguel – Generally speaking, Surigao del Sur should be a safe area for you to visit.
Hi Bob i am a young dude in my 20’s planning a visit to a municipality just north of Cagayan De Oro in Misamis Oriental to visit my girlfriend. My family is a little worried about the area so i want to reassure them that the place i will be visiting is safe!
Hi Andres – That area is pretty safe. I would not expect that you will run into any problems.
Hi Bob,
How are you. I’m stuck here in the U.K untill Xmas. Then i’ll take Michelle and MJ up to bilawan (Mati) and then back home to Davao City for the new year. How i miss Mindanao. Every time i come back here i am reminded of all the reasons why i left in the first place. How i long to be able to walk the streets at night in relative safety or wondering when the next major bombing offensive is going to start.
How many years now have you been writing this Blog? You’re beginning to sound like a stuck record.hahaha.I think the only way we will ever convince people that what they hear and the reality of Mindanao are two completely different things is to drag them there to see for themselves hahahahaha.
I wish i could say something to add to your opinions besides what i’ve already said i guess the best i can say is visit London or New York before you come to Mindanao then maybe you’ll appreciate the difference.
It’s very safe here guys …. the worst that will happen is you get locked in a phils jail for overstaying your visa (definitely not recommended) hahahaha ….. You won’t want to go home!!!!!!
Well said, Alfie!
Just a question. Have things deteriorated since the abduction of this Irish missionary last week in Zamboanga province? I am headed for Cagayan, Davao, Ozaimiz, Dipolog. All safe, and interconnecting bus lines too?
I don’t think you will have any problems on that trip, John.
Hi Bob,
I’m from california, planning to fly to Davao then visit Digos area and Samal Island in November. Does this sound safe? My main concern is terrorism and kidnappings because that’s all we hear about Mindanao. Thank you for any advice you may offer.
Dave
Hi David – I do not believe that there is more terrorist threat in the Davao region than in California. If you don’t feel uncomfortable in California about this, I see no reason to feel uncomfortable about Davao, Samal or Digos.
Enjoy your trip!
hy Bob sorry to my bad english, i am a austria – Vienna man and i wil emigrate for ever to Phillippinen
after Kidpawan in April 2010
My pension for 40 years working in Austria
is an impertinence I was Plumper
gas water heating and solar panels
I found your forum just today and
‘m thrilled you’re really an expert
across the country Philippines
but I am the opinion that life in our very HAZARDOUS since we are in the European Union
the evaluation office in Austria warns of this trip
but I am the opinion that life in our very HAZARDOUS since we are in the European Union, if the crimehas risen by 400%
I think the crime here in Europe is already higher than in the Philippines
But yes, we Europeans still believe that we are the white of an egg in the world,
Bob especially your answer to David has let me come to this incurious
I have the choice to live in europe as a beggar or the Philippines like a king
I go to the country where I am with my small pension 956 euros a king
I found a pretty woman with two children – my new family, living on 150 euros in the month …..
I look forward to and count the weeks and days until departure
make a mistake that many Special German, I would not do with my money to throw around
I think I’ll adapt to the country of 7,100 islands and I’m going to philippnen and not vice versa
Greetings from John Richard
Hello John Richard – I am sure you will be quite happy here! You have an open mind, and sound like you are willing to accept the different lifestyle here.
You really should read my other website: The Live in the Philippines Web Magazine, that is where many of your questions will be answered!
Ho Bob,Thanks for your very informative websites.I lived in Mangagoy(Bislig City for 2 1/2 years and travelled the road from Davao to Mangagoy many times.Davao is very safe,we miss it and are returning next month.There are sporactic robberies along the rough road(anyone who has been to Mangagoy from Davao knows the rough road)between redlands and mangagoy.Hav’nt been there for a few years so don’t know what happened since.Do you know if they made any gains on concreting the bad parts of the rough road,say within an hour from mangagoy if travelling from Davao?Thanks
Hi Will – I have not made the trip in about 5 years or so, I really don’t know about any road improvements. I have not heard that such improvements were underway, though.
Hy Bob
woww you’re faster than the police permits hi hi
Thank you for your congratulatory words about myself
I promise that I will now help soon as I settled down on the Philippines
I talked with my future wife and she told me that you can build a house for about 600,000 peso or buy – I asked her if she makes fun at this price I do not even get in Austria, the doorframes for a Home
To read all of this forum: That was not fun, you can really and truly – I put 2000 left to euro 10,000 euro to build or buy a house but this house has 50m2 but then no 150m2
Dear Bob again many thanks to you for the quick response and great, I promised to sign up with you again – John Richard
Hi Bob how are you. A message for Richard John …. You can build a house for less than 600,000. If you’re prepared to live a little outside the city even in Davao. Where i live is 20ks outside the city in Sitio Basak, Mintal. Just beyond me in Tugbok theres a new sub division and i believe the land is 140,000php for 150 sq mts if hes interested in that just call by tugbok police station and ask for Juhn Legare and tell him Alfie sent him … he will show him where it is. Hope that helps him. Jhun also knows guys that will build it for him.
My advice to him and everyone else is this ….. If you want to pay millions and live with white people then thats available and up to you, but you’ll never appreciate the real philippines unless you get out there and live with the filipino’s.
My own opinion is this … If i wanted to live with yanks, brits and europeans i would stay here in the U.K.
Also if you dont want something too grand you can rent a house there for about 50 euro’s a month ……i just looked that up from 3500php.
My gas electric and water conbined is 85 euros with aircon too. (for 4 of us)
food for a week … living well and entertaining too is 40 euros
I go into town 3 or 4 times a week and eat and drink cost about 14 euro’s a night for drinks and food.
so there it is a complete breakdown of living in Mindanao’s biggest city.
Of course you can make it as expensive as you like depending on where you live … but this does for me just 20k’s from the city and 10ks from beaches and S.M mall and N.C.C.C mall.
The figures i quoted are current exchangerate off reuters web site 69.815php to the euro
Hope that helps
Alfie
Hello Bob
I am a british guy, living in the uk and my Filipino girlfriend Lyn is living in Sultan Kudarat in a place called Bario Islam. I am very concerned for her safety in recent days, She has been involved in two shooting incidents on the public transport system in the last 2 days and there has been a murder in her apartment block. The hostiles all muslim fundamentalists.
I sense there is increased unrest because of the situation with the elections. In your opinion will this pass, I mean have you see it all before, or is there more to come? I find it very often impossible to get a connection to her cellphone so any thoughts you might have would be of interest to me.
Noel
Hi Noel – I have heard of no shootings on public transport, and that certainly would be in the news. I believe somebody is misleading you.
Election violence is common throughout the Philippines, but the election is many months away, and there is no election violence going on.
Hi Bob …. How are you … I’ll be back home about the 15th december …. Noel I am in the U.K right now if you want to know more about mindanao give me a call …. 07952230093 ….. I’ll help you all I can. I’ve been 6yrs living in Mindanao and have many contacts there
regards
Alfie
Hello Bob, I just discovered your article while trying to find information on the terroist activity around the Monkayo – Compostella Valley. Is it safe to travel in that area now? Davao I hear is safe as is Cebu City and Leyte. I can’t tell by the maps how much distance is between Davao and Cebu are they close enough to travel in one day?
Advice is greatly appreciated, as we are very nervous here.
Thank you, J
Hi Jo Ann – You should experience no real problems traveling around Monkayo. There is a bit of NPA activity in the area, but I don’t think it’s a big concern.
Cebu and Davao are on different islands, so travel would be by air or boat. You can fly Davao-Cebu in just one hour.
butuan city is pretty safe,It is one of the peaceful city in caraga region.
Hi Bob
Thankyou for a very informative blog. I am visiting my sweetheart over the new year, she lives in gensan, which I believe is safe after reading this blog. We plan to spend a few days on new years visiting her family in surallah, banga area, I would like to know if there are any concerns for this area?
Hi Paul – In the past, there has been some NPA activity out in that area of South Cotabato. I have gone to the area many times, and always enjoyed myself there, though.
Hi Bob,
I will be traveling to Dipolog in January for 3 weeks to visit my fiance’s family. Can you tell me if Dipolog is safe for western foreigners during this time. Thanks in advance for any details you can provide to me
Hi steve – the exact question was asked on Oct. 20, you can read my response above, just a few comments up.
If you want a more detailed assessment of that area, I can do a trip security report for you for $29.99. Let me know if I can help.
Hi Bob,
Any comments on the Lake Taal region of Mindanao? Want to visit there in December.
Kevin
Hi Kevin – Lake Taal is not in Mindanao, it is up north… on the island of Luzon. Sorry, I don’t know much about that region.
Hi Kevin,
I read in internet that volcan Taal is closed for visitors. Before you will travel there contact any tourist office in Philippines.
Greetings
Ulrich
Hey Bob,
I live nearby in Singapore, am thinking about popping over for a 3 week trip.
Considering starting in either Davao or Cagayan de Oro, hiring a motorcycle, and doing a leisurely ride to the east and north-east coasts, then back. Stopping everywhere I can of course!
Any security concerns on that sort of travel in that area?
And secondly, more out of curiousity, what’s the level of English knowledge in that area?
Thanks mate!
Brendan
Hi Brendan – Given the massacre and beheading of some 57 people in Maguindanao this week, I am hesitant to recommend such travel. It also depends on when the trip is. The closer it is to elections next May, the more I would recommend that you avoid such a trip. Northern Mindanao should be OK, but just be very cautious at this time.
Greetings Bob,
I’m planning my first trip to Kidapawan, Jan 18th till Feb 8th. Been dating beautiful filipina SDA christian for several months now and can’t wait to see her. Well be also visiting Davao when time permitts. Is Kidapawan safe ? should there be some concern with the elections coming up ,and I shouls excercise causion. Any help will be appreciated, thanks God bless ….michael
Michael – Kidapawan is not that far from Maguindanao, where the massacre of 57 (at least) people occurred on Monday. You might want to be a bit cautious of going there, especially as the election nears. Maybe you should ask your friend to meet you in Davao.
I am not normally negative on Kidapawan, and I have been there many times myself. But, as I think this is your first tim to visit this area, I just think you should consider the safety aspect at this time.
Thanks for the speedy response Bob! Yes, that tragedy really sounds almost beyond belief.
I was aiming for a trip from 13 Dec through to 2 Jan. So would starting in Cagayan de Oro, heading east along the northern coast to the northeast corner of Mindanao, then back, be considered safe?
Hope things stay safe for you guys over there in the current situation.
Cheers
Brendan
Hi Brendan – I feel that route would be OK. But, given the current situation, there can be no guarantees.
Hi Bob,
How are you there. I just feel i have to make some comment here today. First of all, Please don’t think that I’m trivialising (is that the right word), the tragic events back there.
I was in the states, (Nebraska) for 9/11, my own country is plagued by shocking acts of terrorism …. 7/7 and numerous other events.
On Monday Dec 1, I fly from Heathrow to Dubai then arrive back in the pina’s on Wednesday night and home to Davao on Thursday morning.
On my own personal safety level, I am more concerned about Heathrow and Dubai than I am about events back home.
Guys I have said this many times here and I’m going to say it again. Every country has it share of misguided fanatics, but, Mindanao actually has less than most. Please do not believe that Mindanao is as dangerous as people say. It’s important to our people that you come here and see the truth. The people here need you and your currency and they will go out of their way to be curteous, hospitable and ensure your safety. Of course, no-one should take things for granted and you should take care … but tell me anywhere where thats not a fact of life, certainly its not safe to walk the streets here in the U.K or in the U.S.A in the dead of night.
As Bob says, there are no guarantees, but he could say that about anywhere in the world.
Come visit us in beautiful Mindanao, see the truth for yourselves and you will return … everyone does!!!!!
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Alfie.
Thanks again Bob, and Alfie. I’m going to go ahead and book my flights to Cagayan, then see how things look once I arrive. Worst case scenario I’ll just retire to Camiguin instead of riding – which doesn’t sound like a bad scenario at all!
I guess what I am most concerned about is the frequency/likelihood of random dangerous encounters in the rural areas to solo travellers.
Cheers guys.
i was born in NORALA SOUTH COTABATO -A RICE BOWL TOWN, PEOPLE HERE LIVING SIMPLE BUT HAVE A HIGHER LEVEL OF EDUCATIONS. HIGH CLASS SOCIETY AND OWE A HECTARES OF LAND/RICE & CORN FIELD. THIS IS MY PEACEFULL HOME TOWN.. AND MY 2ND HOME IS IN KORONADAL CITY THE CENTER OF SOUTH COTABATO AREA.. THIS PLACE IS A VERY PROGRESSIVE CITY AND RICH IN NATURAL RESOURCES.. LIKE RICE, CORN, COCONUT AND FRUITS. THE DOLE PINEAPLE PLANTATION BELONG IN THIS PROVINCE… THIS IS A QUITE PLACE. VERY FAR FAR AWAY FROM MAGUINDANAO PROVINCE (SOME PEOPLE OF NORTH COTABATO MIGRATED IN SOUTH COTABATO JUST TO HAVE A PEACEFULL MIND ESPICIALLY THE EDUCATED MUSLIM PEOPLE) . IF U DRIVING YOUR OWN CAR TO NORTH IN NON STOP WOULD BE 4-5HOURS.. BUT PUBLIC TRANSFORTATION TAKES 7-8 HOURS. VERY SAFE TO TRAVEL THIS PROVINCE. …….IN NORALA, PEOPLE KNOWS EACH OTHER. HAVE A GOOD CULTURE AND TRADITIONS. BEAUTIFUL AND NICE FRIENDLY PEOPLE. …
Hi Bob! Hope you are doing well. Im so thankful to have come across your site. I have a friend who is going to get married in Zamboanga City. Im part of his wedding entourage. Is it safe to be there in Zamboanga City? Thanks for the info.
Hi michelle – I personally feel that Zamboanga City is safe. Enjoy the wedding!
This is about Americans being called Joes. Filipinos calling you a “Joe” is not meant as an insult or a derision to the person. The Philippines was liberated by the United States from the Japanese during World War II hence, was saturated with American soldiers everywhere. Back then the U.S. soldiers were called G.I. Joes. Somewhat the title stuck. However, because the Americans that you see in the streets are no longer the American soldier they are no longer addressed us G.I.Joes but plain “Joes”. So don”t get insulted if one calls you Joe. It’s an affectionate term use by Filipinos to any American.
Hi Bob,
Great site. I am planning to travel to Iligan city in a few months to see my girl friend and was wondering how things are there now. I was in Iligan city for 3 weeks in May of 2008 and had a wonderful time. I am looking forward to going back and hope that things there will still be ok. Thanks for keeping people informed as to how things are in this very beautiful part of the world. Good information on mindanao is usually hard to find. Seems like the only stuff you ever hear about Mindanao is the bad stuff.
Adam
Hi Adam – Things in Iligan are pretty much fine at this time. But since you are going in a few months, it’s really too early for the information to be of any value. Things can change in three months or so. Best to check back a few weeks before your trip.
Bob–thanks for the informative site. We are planning to travel to the Philippines for a missions trip, arriving on New Year’s Eve into Mindanao. Then we are supposed to fly to Davao City on Jan. 1 and be there for four days for a conference with a couple hundred pastors. Will it be dangerous to travel to Davao, and to be in a big meeting like this? Thanks for your help!
Hi Sherri – I don’t believe you have anything to worry about. Davao is a very safe place to visit, in my opinion.
Hi
Thank you for creating this blog. It is very helpful. I will be traveling to GenSan on Dec 21. First time Philippines visit. Any advice would be appreciated. I am staying at the Pension House Hotel . . . meeting my gf for the first time.
Hi Robert – I don’t think that there is a place called “Pension House Hotel” – there are lots of Pension Houses, but that is a name for a place similar to a hotel. Anyway, no biggie on that.
I don’t think there is much to fear in going to GenSan at this time. Enjoy your trip, and enjoy meeting your gf.
Hi Bob,
great job you did with your blog!
I am going to Mindanao end of December, first to Zamboanga. Actually I had booked a trip with Superferry from Zamboanga to Gen San, unfortunately Superferry cancelled the trip so I will take the plane to Davao and then by bus down to Gen San. On the way from Davao to Gen San, are there places worth staying for a day or a few? What about Digos? Any recommendation where to stay? I don’t need AC or TV, rather budget.
Again a big thank you for your efforts!!
Rehards,
Martin
Hi Bob.
Me, my philippina wife and our 3 month old baby plan to go to Iligan. My 80 yo dad and his same ages gf is also comming. 5 in total. we plan to go there in middle of jan. you sayd its “pretty much fine”, that made me thinking. i was there in 2005 and it was fine. is Iligan abouth the same now?
Regards Geir with family
Hi Martin – Thank you for your kind words. Probably, I would say that there is not much reason to stop in Digos. It’s a nice little place, but in my opinion there is not much to do there that would attract you to visit. Just my opinion.
Hi Geir – I would classify the situation in Iligan about the same as it was 5 years ago. I love Iligan, it’s a great place. However, it is important to remember that the geographic location of Iligan is right near the edge of danger. Most of the time it is peaceful and safe. Other times, though, war tends to break out in that area. So, 95% of the time – no problems. Just watch out for the other 5%.
Enjoy your trip!
Thanx a lot Bob. if wars/conflicts seams to close, we just pack our bags and leave for a better place asap. Great great blog..
Geir
Hi Bob, How safe do you think Cagayan Der Oro and Bukidnon is right now to visit? Thank you. Best wishes.
PS Great site
Hello John – I personally believe that CdO or Bukidnon are as safe as any major city in the USA or the UK. The only advice would be, in Bukidnon, don’t venture out into the countryside. If you remain in populated areas, reasonably near a highway, it is safe.
Thanks Bob for promoting the country. I was just reading an article regarding the Agusan kidnapping, and reading yours was a breaker. Thanks really for inspite of so many problems around, you decided to stay and appreciate Mindanao’s beauty. I bet you have a lovely filipina wife that keeps you to stay in the Philippines. Still, please stay safe.
Dear sir I AM GOING TO DIPOLOG CITY TO MEET MY GIRLFRIEND FOR THE FIRST TIME IN FEBUARY! IS IT SAFE AND AS IT IS THE FIRST TIME FOR ME TO THE PHILIPPINES WHAT SHOULD I KNOW? THANKS AND GOD BLESS YOU!
Hi Bob, how are you, Thanks for your Blog, it keeps helping, in spreading all the needed information about travelling and safety precautions. Anways im an Indian, and im going to meet my friends in Manila, Bulacan and misamis oriental ,gingoog city. so any advices or needed information for me. And this will be my first visit to Philippines Country..
Keep Up the Good Work..
Thanking you,
With Regards,
Kalyan.
Hi Kalyan – Gingoog is a quiet and peaceful place, you should have no problems there. Enjoy your trip!
Hi Bob..
I I have just been searching the Internet, trying to find out things about Pagadian City,, I did come to the Philippines last year and spent a few days on Boracay Island,,
with someone I thought was very special,,, let’s just say she thoroughly enjoyed a holiday.. but the real interest was not with me..
But since then I’ve met somebody from Pagadian City,, and I think I would like to meet her in her city, and get to know her first,, Internet dating is always difficult so I guess I’d really like to meet face to face to assess if the words are for real or not.. And if they are real I may well consider relocating their, if it’s safe..
I did realise that Boracay was a safe place,,
but I am unsure about Pagadian City,, and I just wondered what your thoughts were on this..
Everybody is asking you for reassurances, I appreciate your website, I guess there is nothing like first hand knowledge..
Many thanks and kind regards,
Mark..
hi bob,you did an excellent job of making this blog.I am a fiipina married to an american man who lived in Iowa state of america.we are now living here together and we are planning to retire in the philippines.we are supposed to buy a lot in Ipil zamboanga sibugay province and just build a house on it when we are ready to retire but I just cancelled it out because my mom said it is not safe for my hus band to retire in there.this coming march,2010 we are already booked to fly from IA to cebu city but we do not decide yet if we will go to ipil,zamboanga sibugay province because that’s where my family lived closed.we are thinking maybe meet my family in dipolog city or zamboanga city.we will just stay there for 5 days.hope you can help us decide. I will appreciate any opinion you have.thanks and more power.
sincerely yours,
alemar
Hi alemar – generally, I don’t feel that Sibugay is that dangerous, especially if you are in a municipality. If you are out in the middle of nowhere… yeah, it might be a bit dangerous, though.
Hi Mark – Pagadian is a safe area, I know several foreigners who live there and love the place. As long as you remain in town, you should experience no problems in my opinion. Venture out into the rural areas, and you might potentially experience some problems, though.
HI BOB; I REALLY ENJOY READING YOUR COMMENTS HERE! YOU HAVE A NICE INFORMATIVE SITE! I MET A GIRL ON THE INTERNET AND SHE LIVES IN DIPOLOG CITY! I WANT TO VISIT HER IN FEBUARY! IS IT SAFE FOR ME TO TRSVEL THERE BY MYSELF AS THIS IS MY FIRST TIME TO THE PHILIPPINES! ANY ADVICE YOU CAN GIVE ME WOULD BE GREATLY APPRETIATED! HER PARENTS LIVE OUT IN THE COUNTRY WOULD IT BE SAFE FOR ME TO VISIT THEM? KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK! YOUR FRIEND ABRAM
Hi Abram – I don’t think you will have any problems visiting Dipolog City. Might be best to stay in the City instead of visiting the countryside, though.
THANSK BOB APPRECIATE IT
Thanks Bob for your article,
I went to Davao, Digos city, Mysaysay, and many of the areas around there. I traveled Nov 25th- Dec 6th 2009. I think all the warnings I read scared me more than anything! I traveled with a local family, and found the people so kind and hospitable. I went to markets, shopping centers, church. I swam in streams of fresh water at the foothills. Echos of hey Joe ring in my head as I traveled in the back of a truck on a couch. The God fearing people of Mindanao are some of the most beautiful people I have ever met in the world. (I have traveled 5 continents) I never felt threatned, Manila was definitly more intimidating to me. The article you write is so true. If you look for trouble anywhere in the world you can find it. Thanks Bob
Hi John Whalen – Wow, what a surprise. I have a friend named John Whalen who has visited here in the Davao region, but I am sure you are not him! He stayed at my house on his last visit, but that was a number of years ago.
I’m glad to hear that you enjoyed your visit!
Hi Bob,
Great postings here! I am traveling to Butuan City by air and then taking a trip to Bayugan City for about 15 days. I wanted to ask about safety there and also about Malaria risk? I have all vaccinations but was not sure on Malaria. CDC recomments the entire country but I think thats a bit much!
Thanks
God Bless
Howard
Hello Bob, I have written you before thanks for your answers they really helped. I was planning to visit my future wife in Davao city. She lives in Davao Del Sur…her municipality is Matanao. I planned on coming the first week in June because I wanted to wait until after the election with all the violence. I told her i wanted to meet her in davao city and stay there the whole time as i felt it was not safe to visit her home….I will get your security advisory before i book my trip anyway to see if maybe it is safe then to visit her home…..would it be more dangerous to move my trip up to april before the elections if i just stay in davao city…I want to come earlier than June so i can sponser her on K1 Visa to come to USA but am scared to come before elections…what is your opinion……
Hi Howard – Malaria is not much of a problem in the Philippines, it is quite rare here. But, there are other things to worry about when it comes to mosquitoes, primarily dengue. I see that you ordered my security report, and I will include health information for you when I send you the report later today. I hope you have a great trip!
Hi Gary – The elections certainly are something to keep in mind, as elections here can be violent. If you stay in Davao City, though, you should not be worried, there won’t be any election violence in the City, or at least it would be very rare for that to happen. The first week of June is no less dangerous, because that is right after the election, and things could be pretty hot still. I think that coming in April and staying in the City is the best bet for you.
Thanks Bob, I will get your security report before i come. i would like to visit her family in their home for a day trip, but I dont want to risk my life to do it. Thanks Again. Gary
Hi Gary – you won’t be risking your life to take a day trip there. It’s not that big of a deal to be honest. If I am not busy, I might even be able to take you, or accompany you. If you are interested, let me know and we can work something out.
Hi, Bob,
I saw your reply to Howard, who is travelling to Bayugan in Agusan del Sur. My son is travelling to Bayugan City in the spring to visit whom he hopes will be his future wife. I’m concerned because he will be alone there for two weeks. Won’t he stand out as a foreigner in the town? He is not the kind of person to do nightlife or bars, but I’m thinking that it will just be obvious if someone wanted to kidnap him, espcially if he stays in a hotel or hostel by himself. I tell him he should not go. And the US State Dept travel advisory says to exercise extreme caution. I read also that there was a big kidnapping (of a large group of people) not too far from there a few weeks ago, and some Filipino politicans calling for martial law in Agusan del Sur. Those are just some things I found out in my research. I’m a worried mom, and I just want my son to be safe. What do you think?
I’m sorry Bob, what I mentioned was that I saw your reply to Howard, who was going to Bayugan, and your reply was about malaria, not safety. Perhaps you could address that..that was the purpose of my post. Thanks again!
Hi Bobbi – There is not a big safety problem in the Bayugan area, little at all to worry about. There is no nightlife scene there, it’s a sleepy little town. Yes, your son will stand out and easily be identified as a foreigner, just as I am every single day. But, nothing wrong with that! It won’t make him a target for crime, rather he will be a target for people’s affection, as the vast majority of Filipinos love foreigners.
Yes, the state dept says it is very dangerous here, but to be honest, I would argue that they really don’t know what they are talking about. Their advisory to people not to come here is really, in my opinion, nothing but a CYA policy statement (Cover your A**). If they didn’t say something like that, and somebody got hurt here, then they might be in for trouble.
Honestly, there is no concern for safety in the Bayugan area, as far as I am concerned, and I’ve been there many times.
Hello again Bob, my future wife when I arrive in davao wants to stay on Samal Island. She prefers the Paradise Island Resort over pearl farm. She does not want to stay in Marco Polo hotel in the city. So I have some questions 1) is samal Island safe for me to stay at either resort? 2) Which resort do you think is nicer? 3) is there anything to really do on the island or am i better off staying in marco Polo 3 nights and on Samal Island the rest of the time as she first suggested. 4) I am thinking of coming now in april instaed of June since you said safety is no different in june after elections, Samal seems like a tourist spot or a spot to be a target? ALSO she wants me to consider traveling to her home to meet her family in davao Del Sur, Matanao municipality….SO I would like to buy your trip advisory so i can make some decisions. where is the link for that…I have many questions i need to ask…thanks Gary
hello Bob. Sorry I did not see your latest post saying that I would not be risking my life to take a day trip to her home. I will book my flight around the middle of January i will give you the dates and you can see if you are available. You said you have a car service that I can hire for the day. Thanks for your help. If you can answer my other questions about Samal island and the hotels that would be great. I figure we can take a hotel cab from paradise island for the day to go to the mall in Davao city. Or can hire your service for a half day. so staying on Samal wont feel so isolated. So do you feel I need to buy your security report for her home town day trip or Samal Island or no? Also she is working as a nanny now in HK but will come back to Davao when I am ready to come…so then I see i can use your service to send her flowers ect….you have spent alot of time with me and i appreciate it…..you have to make some money out of this…its only right….Thanks Gary
Hi Gary – Paradise Island and Pearl Farm are two totally different experiences, and they don’t compare to each other at all. Paradise is a lower end place where you can go with the kids and such, not fancy at all. Pearl Farm is the cream of the crop – a beautiful resort that has all the amenities. It’s a world class resort, 5 Stars. Paradise Island is nothing of the sort.
You don’t need to worry about safety on Samal, it is a secure place, and I have never experienced a security problem there at all. I have spent significant time on Samal. My wife and I own property there, and we may build a house there someday, so I am very familiar with Samal Island.
For the visit that you are talking about you really don’t need a Security Report for that, Gary. No worries.
Hi Gary – We would be happy to help you on the car service, just let me know anytime. And, I am hapy to answer any questions that you have.
If you are wanting to send her flowers, or any other gifts, I have a business for that: WowPhilippines. My wife and I have been operating that business for almost 10 years now, and we deliver flower and other gifts anywhere in the Philippines.