There is a public perception that 3rd world nations such as the Philippines are dangerous because there is a lot of poverty amongst the people....My friends and relatives ask me all the time if I feel in any danger when I'm there...
...The truth of the matter is however that in terms of common people...I feel safer in downtown Makati than any other US city I've visited. However, the cops worry that crap out of me
Even the meter maids down there are fully equipped with artillery
With all that being said...It is my favorite place to visit in the world. The people are the nicest you will ever meet, the weather is fantastic (for most parts of the year), the country-side is gorgeous, and there are lots of fantastic business opportunities
...just watch your back
