Philippines Country Report

The Philippines is a developing country in Southeast Asia with improving political stability following a history of authoritarian rule, popular uprisings, and coup attempts. The level of trust in government institutions among locals and foreign investors has also significantly increased due to the government’s ongoing efforts to eradicate corruption. However, several lingering and recent issues threaten to undermine these gains. Alleged extra-judicial killings linked to the former administration’s war against drugs has raised concerns over growing human rights abuses and disregard for the rule of law. The country has performed well economically over the past decade, buoyed partly by remittances from the large overseas Filipino diaspora. However, corruption and political patronage remain hurdles.

The Philippines faces considerable threats from leftist and Islamist insurgencies. The most prominent left-wing extremist group - the New People's Army - has progressively weakened in recent years, with activity largely limited to rural areas. In the restive Mindanao region, a decades-long conflict continues despite a slight decline in Islamist militant activity following a 2019 plebiscite that granted enhanced autonomy to a portion of the region. In addition, natural disasters, especially typhoons, are a cyclical threat to the population, infrastructure, and national economy, while healthcare remains scarce in rural areas.

Entrants must submit an electronic travel declaration within 72 hours before reaching or departing the Philippines.

Crime remains the main threat that foreigners face in the Philippines. The nature of such threat, though, is generally petty and opportunistic. There are also credible threats of conflict and terrorism, although they are mostly concentrated in several regions outside the National Capital Region. Protests can degenerate into violence with little or no warning, whilst strike actions, though significantly lower in frequency, can paralyze targeted sector(s).

Air travel is generally considered safe, although there are concerns over inadequate security at the country's main airport, Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) in Metro Manila.

Access to electricity and mobile communications coverage also remains an issue in rural areas, whilst nationwide Internet connection speed is generally slower compared to neighbors in the region. In response to the growing threat of cybercrime, the government has taken a number of steps to boost its defenses.

The Philippines is highly vulnerable to storm systems during the typhoon season between June and November, whilst episodes of heavy downpours can affect the country throughout the year. Furthermore, there is a credible threat of powerful earthquakes and major volcanic eruptions in several provinces. It is worth noting that the lack of adequate preparedness measures and response credibility increases the risk of human casualties and destruction resulting from the aforementioned natural disasters.

The Philippines has several diseases and health threats, including dengue. Vaccines before travel are also required. Decent-quality private medical facilities can be found in major cities; however, healthcare is lacking in rural locations. Access to mental health services is adequate. Tap water is not considered safe for drinking unless otherwise directed.

President Bongbong Marcos, the son of former dictator Ferdinand Marcos, won the presidential election in May 2022 with nearly 59 percent of the vote. Sara Duterte, the former mayor of Davao City and daughter of former President Rodrigo Duterte, won the vice-presidential election, which occurs separately from the presidential contest.

The country's political regime remains stable. However, political violence can occur, especially during election periods. Corruption and the weak rule of law persist throughout the country.