Health & safety: Philippines
Tap water
Not safe
Food safety
Caution
Can you drink the tap water in Philippines?
Tap water NOT safe. Bottled water everywhere.
Food safety in Philippines
Restaurants OK. Street food risky. Stick to busy places. Raw seafood (kinilaw) at reputable places only.
Vaccinations
Required for entry
None required for entry.
Recommended by CDC/WHO
- Hepatitis A + B
- Typhoid
- Japanese Encephalitis if rural
Always check the CDC traveler's health page 4-6 weeks before departure for current recommendations.
Altitude warnings
Mt Apo (2,954m). Most areas low.
Mosquito-borne diseases
Dengue + Malaria. DEET essential.
Heat risk
Year-round tropical heat.
Emergency medical infrastructure
Manila + Cebu private hospitals excellent. Outside cities limited.
