Personal Safety And Security: Ideas Go Here

[HVACman]

There have been many threads and many references to personal saftey and security here and on other sites i've visited. I frequently read statements like 'learn the ropes', which is fine, but it really dosn't offer any actual information other than to offer a general warning. More to the point, I've never come accross on any site I've ever visited, a forum or sticky thread dedicated to saftey.

So...,

I'd like to propose a sticky thread (or a seperate forum) that will porvide perhaps obvious, and not so obvious things that everyone, newbs and long time resident expats, should be aware of, in specific terms. Also It would be very helpfull to have information on how best to deal with, or get out of a specific situation should you find yourself in the the shite.

In many instances, simply learning the cultural differences can go a long way in helping to stay safe.

My thoughts here are not to eliminate duplicate threads, but rather to provide an easily accessable resource for everyone, that everyone can add their knoweledge and experience to.

There are many aspects of saftey to be aware of... certianly more than I can think of at this monent and it's not my intention to omit any, so please add as you see fit. Feel free to comment, criticize or otherwise add your thoughts to improve upon the idea for this sticky thread or forum.

HVACman

[Gene and Viol]

Originally Posted by HVACman

There have been many threads and many references to personal saftey and security here and...

HVACman

Here's a good post by someone on a medical issue while here in the Philippines. One point that needs to be made clear from the article is that a hospital CAN NOT hold you from discharge until the bill is paid. This use to be done but has since been outlawed as it is considered illegal detention.

Read More: Philippines | PERSONAL SAFETY MANAGEMENT

[bairdlander]

I think the best way is to travel with a resident you trust.

[Gene and Viol]

Good idea but takes much time to know for sure which "local" can really be trusted. A mistake can cost your life.
I've been married and living here for nine years. I have full trust in my wife. Her parents 100% also but would question their judgement if an important issue needed to be decided. Only my wife would I trust in all things...

[jon1]

I am with Gene on the time it takes to gain trust of locals... Most are out to get $ out of you (view you as an ATM machine). You have to watch EVERYONE (including your new extended family). Once you figure out which ones can be trusted then you can make some moves. For the most part, the majority of filipinos do not have the same level of maturity/sense to make the right decision (good judgement). There are always the exceptions but most I would not entrust to them any money or major life decisions...

For me some simple rules;

The old addage "if it's too good to be true, it is" applies more than naught here.

Always listen to your gut. If it feels wrong it usually is.

Follow people's body language even more closely. Especially during mixed language conversations. People's body language will usually reveal more than what their words are saying (actions always speak louder)..

Learn what local areas to avoid (some are OK in the daytime, some are never OK).

Make acquaintances, true friends are few and far between. For me, once a person has gained my trust (after a long trial period) then they might become a friend.

Never flash money, never carry a wallet, always carry enough money (whatever you can afford to lose) to get by for the outing you are on (plus some emergency money). Never in my back or cargo pocket. Always in front pocket. Split between both.

Carry local ID only (ACR, Driver's License) and copy of your passport only.

Dress appropriately for the occasion. Never wear very nice/designer (US bought) clothes/high end watches, etc. to local markets (you will find your prices will be even higher than usual as you will be pegged as a tourist vs a local foreigner resident (which will already be higher than a local). Always dress down to the lowest acceptable level.

Learn some key phrases in the local dialect, plus tagalog.

Always apply common sense to safety/security issues as there are very few applied here.

Never use a Jeepney (always pickpockets), when using a taxi, always have the meter on (if they refuse to turn on, get out).

Use your credit/debit cards with extreme caution. Numbers can be captured via receipts and reading devices on ATM machines.

Avoid cheaper hotels (the lower the price, the less secure it is usually).

As you spend more time here and get used to things, some of what I suggest may not apply to you (as a newbie). Everyone has their own comfort level on doing certain things (i.e. jeepneys, trikes, etc.).


Just me .02 cents....

[Gene and Viol]

Originally Posted by Devo1982

I sleep with a 9mm under my pillow and my father has a 12 gauge Armscor leant against his bed. I rue the day when someone tries to rob us again as it will be a very different story this time

Just be sure it's your wife or another Philippine citizen that pulls the trigger!

Hi Devo,

I always enjoy reading your posts. I carry a walking stick when out and I know how to use it. My wife has a 9mm. At home a .45 rounds out the arsenal. I will try to take the shot and pass the piece to her if necessary. But I will not allow this place to determine how I can or cannot defend myself. I am not a victim type. The continuous involvement of the police in crimes here has made me reconsider my permanent residence. I would rather risk the states again where at least I know what to expect legally and have the right to own a firearm. If I could I'd gather all the guns and throw them in the ocean. All but mine.

Mikey48