Hello

[johndavidc]

Could anyone tell me how safe it is to visit Davao? I obviously check the FO advice regarding traveling there, but would appreciate first hand experiences if there are any about. Regards John x

[Arthur Little]

Could anyone tell me how safe it is to visit Davao? I obviously check the FO advice regarding traveling there, but would appreciate first hand experiences if there are any about. Regards John x

John ... Davao City itself is widely regarded as being one of the safest cities in the entire Philippines ... principally, I suppose, because its Mayor, Rodrigo Duterte is exceptionally tough on lawbreakers.

Indeed, I'm sure my friend and co-moderator, Terpe will bear this out - as he and his wife emigrated there from England last November.

[Terpe]

Could anyone tell me how safe it is to visit Davao? I obviously check the FO advice regarding traveling there, but would appreciate first hand experiences if there are any about. Regards John x

Davao City is a very clean, disciplined and safe place.
I'm comfortable roaming around alone at day or at night on foot, jeep or taxi.
I've not so far felt insecure or threatened in any way.
Taxi's are all metered and the taxi drivers are generally helpful and trustworthy.
That's not to say there's no robbery or petty crime. No city is completely safe and you should always be aware of your surroundings.

If you smoke do be aware thatDavao City is a smoke free city.
This means that smoking anywhere in public, vehicles, shopping malls, bars and clubs etc is very strictly forbidden
You can be fined at best or end up spending a night in jail at worst.
Use only designated smoking areas.

There's not any major problems with beggars or street children and the like but do be aware that if you're caught handing out money to them you run the risk of getting arrested.

The Mayor the police and the military have the place under watch and are visibly evident. Criminals are warned not to mess around in Davao City.

Davao is also a safe place in terms of traffic. There are strict enforcements on the speed limits which are generally 30 - 40 kph depending on the area.
Oh, and be very sure to carefully and correctly follow those traffic light controlled pedestrian crossing zones or you stand a good chance of being arrested for jaywalking