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Philippines
34 scams
A beautiful archipelago of islands, you can find great beaches, pristine lagoons, warm and friendly locals, adventures and getaways all in Philippines.
Unfortunately, at certain tourist attractions, you need to keep your guard up against touts, criminals and some transport providers.
Note: vast majority of trips are trouble free and there is no need to be paranoid. That said, it always pays to be aware, careful, and prepared.
Emergency number
- All emergencies: 911
Travel guide
Bump and drop scam in Philippines
2 0How it works: A scammer carrying a spoilt item stops suddenly, causing you to bang into him. He drops the spoilt item, accuses you of damaging it and then demands…
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Baggage handler theft in Philippines
2 0How it works: There have been reports of airport porters/baggage handlers who open up luggage to steal valuables. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-fNLdeDtmE4 Places to beware: Metro Manila: Ninoy Aquino International Airport What to…
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Money changer scams in Philippines
2 0How it works: Opening: money changers at secluded areas put a sign or hire a tout on the main road to advertise good exchange rates. Version 1: they provide many…
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Unlicensed taxis in Philippines
2 1How it works: If you are lucky, you only have to pay an inflated flat fare. If you are unlucky, you may be driven somewhere secluded and be robbed or…
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Taxi spray robbery in Philippines
2 0How it works: A substance is sprayed into the taxi/vehicle’s air conditioner causing whoever inhaling it to feel giddy. What happens next is you may be robbed/sexually assaulted and then…
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Free scalpular scam in Philippines
2 1How it works: Similar to the fake monk scam globally, here, a tout around a church may offer you a free religious scapular. Accept it however and you will be…
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Horse buggy (kalesa) scams in Philippines
2 0How it works: Version 1: halfway through, the driver disembarks and his “boss” takes over. He brings you to an isolated area, claims the original fare is wrong and demands…
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Familiar face scam in Philippines
2 1How it works: Opening: a stranger claims he knows or has seen you as he works at your hotel (e.g. bellboy, guard, driver). Set-up: good news is that he is…
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Fake beggars in Philippines
2 1How it works: Version 1: there are little girls who tug at your clothes or bag and beggars who act forlorn, poor, disabled. Version 2: a beggar distracts, an accomplice…
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Taboan Market fake dried mangoes in Philippines
1 0How it works: At this market, the unbranded dried mangoes sold in 1kg bags at some shops are actually candies, not real dried mangoes. Places to beware: Cebu: Taboan Public…
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