Staying safe in Cebu: scams, transport, water and sun

Cebu is a friendly, welcoming place, and most visits go by without any trouble. Like anywhere busy, though, there are a few things worth knowing: petty theft in crowds, the odd taxi trick, strong sun and changeable seas. None of this should worry you. A little common sense goes a long way.

Emergency numbers

• 911 is the national emergency number for police, fire and ambulance.
• Tourist police are deployed in busy tourist areas. Look for them if you need help or directions.
• Save your hotel's number and address on your phone, and know where the nearest hospital is.
• If you lose your passport, contact your embassy or consulate.

Petty theft and crowds

Pickpocketing and phone snatching are the most common problems, mostly in busy places such as markets, jeepneys, festivals and crowded streets downtown, for example around Colon Street and Carbon Market.

• Keep your phone in a front pocket or a zipped bag, not in your back pocket or loose in your hand near the road.
• Wear your bag across your body, and in front of you in crowds.
• Carry only the cash you need for the day. Leave your passport in the hotel safe and carry a copy.
• Be extra careful during big events like Sinulog.

Common scams

• The broken meter. A taxi driver says the meter is not working and offers a fixed price. Politely decline and take another taxi, or use Grab.
• The long way round. Follow the route on your phone map, so you know roughly where you are going.
• Short-changing. At small money changers, count your money carefully in front of the counter before you leave. Using banks, ATMs or well-known money changers in malls is safer.
• Unofficial guides and touts. At ports, bus terminals and popular sites, book through official counters, your hotel or accredited guides.
• Friendly strangers who invite you to a card game, or to a house to meet a relative. Say no and walk away.

Getting around safely

• Grab is the easiest and safest way to get around Metro Cebu, as the price and the driver's details are recorded in the app.
• On motorbike taxis (habal-habal) always wear a helmet, agree on the price before you go, and avoid riding at night on mountain roads.
• If you rent a scooter, make sure you have the right licence and insurance, and wear a helmet. Traffic can be chaotic.
• Allow extra time. Rushing is when accidents happen.

Read more in our guide to getting around Cebu.

Boats and the sea

• Choose licensed boat operators, and make sure there are life jackets on board.
• Do not go out if the sea looks rough, even if someone offers. When a storm signal is raised, sea travel is suspended. See our typhoon season guide.
• Watch for currents when snorkelling, and stay close to your group and boat.
• For canyoneering, always go with an accredited guide and wear the helmet and life vest provided. Read our canyoneering guide.

Water and food

• Do not drink tap water. Drink bottled or filtered water, and refill your bottle at your hotel.
• Ice in restaurants and cafes is usually made from purified water, but if you have a sensitive stomach, skip it at roadside stalls.
• Street food is part of the fun. Choose busy stalls where food is cooked fresh in front of you.
• Carry oral rehydration salts in case of an upset stomach.

Sun, heat and mosquitoes

• The sun is strong all year. Use sunscreen, wear a hat and rest in the shade at midday.
• Drink plenty of water, especially on hikes and island-hopping days.
• Use insect repellent. Dengue is present in the Philippines, so avoid mosquito bites, especially in the early morning and evening.
• Keep away from stray dogs and do not pet unknown animals. If you are bitten or scratched, see a doctor quickly.

Nights out

• Keep an eye on your drink, and do not accept drinks from strangers.
• Use Grab to get home late at night.
• Know your limits. The local beer and rum are cheap and strong.

Health and insurance

Cebu City has good private hospitals, but care can be limited on small islands and in rural areas. Travel insurance that covers medical care and evacuation is strongly recommended, especially if you plan to dive, go canyoneering or ride motorbikes.

Quick checklist

1. Save 911, your hotel and your embassy in your phone.
2. Keep a copy of your passport, and the original in a safe.
3. Use Grab or metered taxis.
4. Drink bottled or filtered water.
5. Check the weather before any boat trip.

First time here? Read our first-time tips for Cebu and learn a few Cebuano phrases before you go.

Photo: "Traditional jeepney in Cebu IT Park (2025-04-06)" by Wide Awake!, via Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY 4.0.