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Davao

Discussion in 'Travel Tips and Advice' started by Bluebird71, May 13, 2016.

  1. Bluebird71
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    Bluebird71 Well-Known Member

    We last visited Davao in 2011, and it was a nice trip. I was quite nervous arriving there because of the fact that Davao is on the "Only travel if absolutely necessary" travel advice from the FCO. What I found was a city in which I felt relatively safe, I had some great life-changing experiences. I felt safe enough to venture out on my own, even after sunset (usually walking across to a mall and buying myself an ice-cream). I can also remember we stopped off under a bridge where there was a football pitch and a football match taking place, so I can remember feeling quite confident about moving around the city back then.

    I have some questions. Recently, there was an incident in Samal Island involving a kidnap. My understanding is that a gang kidnapped 4 people and handed them over to a militant group in Jolo. We visited Samal Island in 2011 - it appeared to be as safe as the rest of Davao, and I have been spooked by the story. I am also concerned by the news that one person was killed from that group. My heart and goes to his family and friends. For people in Davao, have you noticed any significant changes to security in the city since then? Would you advise that, for example, we stay away from coastal resorts? Have you changed your behaviour since then?

    Also, do you think that the ongoing security of the city will be compromised now that the mayor is going to be based in Manila?

    In terms of tourism, has the city seen an increase in tourism since 2011? Is Davao a safer city, or less safe than it was 5 years ago?

    We would be staying for 10-14 days, most of the time we would be out and about between 8am and 8pm. We would be riding taxis mostly - last time I rode the jeepney only once.
  2. uklove
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    uklove Active Member

    I travel to Mindanao quite frequently.
    I feel very safe. There is more risk from being pick-pocketed than anything horrible happening.
    Friends tell me that Davao is very safe nowadays.
    Just keep your eyes open and dont allow yourself to be distracted...
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  3. DJB
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    DJB Active Member

    I too travel to Mindanao and have been to Davao, like anywhere in the world, just keep your wits about you. The people are lovely, But use Taxis and not busses and Jeepneys as there was a bus bombing last time I was there (2015)
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  4. Markham
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    Markham Guest

    As in 2011, you'll be visiting a city whose Mayor is a tall, tough and imposing Harley-Davidson-riding lawyer who doesn't shy from a bit of physical violence from time to time. And no, I'm not talking about Rodrigo Duterte, the 71 year-old President-elect, but his 37 year-old daughter, Sara, seen here with her two brothers (Paulo, Davao's Vice Mayor, is in the middle and Sebastian, right, is not in politics). Her father wanted her to be his First Lady but she's just declined saying that she will be too busy being the Mayor.

    [​IMG]

    Incidentally, she and her brother were elected virtually unopposed - a very few voted against her but no-one stood for election against her brother. She and her brothers don't normally wear their hair so short, Paolo's Mohican and her and Sebastian's shaved styles date from last October's bid to convince their father to run for the Presidency.

    I have spent the last five years living in the city and would have absolutely no concerns about continuing to do so. It is perfectly safe to walk around at night and ride all forms of transport. I have felt far safer there than I would in many parts of London.
  5. tipipay
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    tipipay Active Member

    No place is 100% safe. I would say DAVAO is a safe place to visit. --From someone who actually lived in the city for 27years. :)
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  6. DavidAlma
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    DavidAlma Well-Known Member

    I agree. I have visited Davao several times over the past couple of years and never felt insecure at any time. In fact we decided to retire there next year and the house that we are building there will be complete next month.
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  7. tipipay
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    tipipay Active Member

    Good to hear that! :)
  8. Stupot10
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    Stupot10 Active Member

    I have only visited Davao once but Mindanao each time I visit the Philippines, personally I feel safe but always make sure you are aware of your surroundings. When I was in Davao I used an accredited tour driver for when we went out of the city to tour and visit places, couldn't ask for a better driver driver and he wouldn't take us to where he felt was an unsafe place for foreigners. A really good guy, couldn't be more helpful.
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  9. tipipay
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    tipipay Active Member

    Most drivers (especially the taxis) here are quite accommodating. At first they will ask you questions then later you'll realize he's telling you the story about his life and experiences. :lol:

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