Is it safe to go to the Philippines during an election year? We're looking to go next June or July.?

Question

My family and I are looking to travel to the Philippines next year however it will be an election year. I was told it may get hectic during an election year. My concern is not the security but rather the possilbilities of protest in the streets as we will be in Manila. The last thing we want is to be tied to a hotel room and not be able to go out. Any advice would be appreciated.

Answer 1

Best Answer - Chosen by Voters

2010 would be the national & local election. President. Vice president, Senators and Local officials. Such as mayors Councilors. However June & July's month is Critical because of the Counting’s. But since we have a new electronic vote counters, Protest may be HIGH especially in some areas that are known for cheatings. Usually NCR or Metro Manila is done counting by that Month and they are just waiting for the oath of office for the new elected officilas. I suggest if you are going to stay in manila. Get a Motel or Hotel close to the American Embassy, just in case worst to worst comes. You and your family can take refuge to the said embassy. Good luck.

Source(s):

been there in 2001 and 2004 elections.

Answer 2

Going durring an election year is not usually a problem. However going within 2 months of an election can be because of all the rally's, protests etc.

Source(s):

Living in the Philippines since 2002.

Answer 3

I know i am getting lots of TDs here but why you come after the inauguration?

I don't think there will be major street protests in Manila but political rivals get 'popped' often and you won't like to get caught in any crossfire or hit by strays.

The Philippines is notorious for New Year/Christmas eves stray bullets injuries/mortality just to fill you in the picture.

Source(s):

edit. I am not assuming that are an American.

Answer 4

i think safe but. i sugeest u, u mut go to the indonesia ( not i bali , but in surabaya province). many great n enjoy place . and u will be happy in surabaya :) sorry my english so bad. tomy from indonesia

Answer 5

BEST THING TO DO IS POSTPONE IT.

Answer 6

Yes, it is safe. Election shall be finished at that time. Anyway who are targets are rival politicians and influential supporters. Malls are safe, so are the tourist spots. Just dont go near counting polls or near politicians premises. Hitmen have their senses too. they kill for money.

Answer 7

We don't have rebels here who would go to the election booths and kill people who are casting their vote. But as to the protests, it's not that you'd get stranded it might just be that you might not be able to get a ride to your destination because their might be a motors' strike or something involving the taxi drivers, jeepney drivers, bus drivers, tricycle drivers, etc.

But I don't thik that you have to worry since the elections in the Philippines are in May.

Answer 8

Safe or not I will be in Cebu February.

Answer 9

YES it is safe.

We'll have our first computerized elections come May 10, 2010 which means that election turnouts will be faster compared to before.

June/July though is the start of rainy season here.

also check www.philippinecountry.com for updates and travel guide...

see you here in Manila... Mabuhay!!!

Answer 10

Yes perfectly safe, unless you're a politician.
You are not allowed to join political rallies!

Foreigners are left alone, they can't vote anyway!

The sale of alcohol is banned on voting day, but it can be sold to foreigners, who are exempt!

The "Rainy Season" isn't very noticeable in the Visayas! The usual scenario: it rains for twenty minutes, and then dries up swiftly, under the heat of the sun!

Source(s):

I have been here during three elections.