should I feel safe taking a 7yr old and a 8 yr old to Philippines.?

Question

Its my first time back in 33 years.

Answer 1

Yes, unless you're a phedo.

Answer 2

Some of the answers here are true but some are somewhat exaggerated. Manila is somewhat polluted so a surgical mask would not be a bad idea when you are out in the traffic.
I don't think that the stray dog problem is so bad-yes there are some very sick looking dogs around-but not as many as a few years ago.
Most, if not all, medication is reasonably available and is much cheaper. Rapid transport to a hospital (ambulance), due to the amount of traffic, is slow.
Food needs to be properly cooked no matter what country you are in. I often eat from the street stalls but you have to be somewhat choosy. Discretion is required. It would be better to use bottled or purified water rather than what comes out of the tap. The same applies to ice.
No doubt you will be both amazed and dismayed at the changes that would have taken place over the last 33 years.
I think that once you and your children get over the initial shock they will make a lot of new friends and don't be surprised if they want to stay longer.
Have a good holiday and make sure that you and your children enjoy the experience.

Answer 3

Yes it is safe. In fact the Philippines has a young population. Almost everywhere you go, you see kids (unfortunately street kids) or teenagers with their parents. There are a lot of toy shops, clothing and activities for kids. But the question is, could your kids handle the humidity and warm weather? Mosquitoes during the rainy season can be a problem. They might be complaining alot and ruin your vacation instead. I think thats the only concern you should be thinking off. And off course use your common sense. Keep your kids near you and instruct them what to do if they get lost or something. Before I forget ask their pediatrician if vaccination is needed for certain diseases like Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid and others.

Answer 4

I don't find any reason for you not to bring your children to the Philippines. It takes a parent's watchfulness and responsibility anyway to bring his/her kids to any place so there's nothing wrong about going to the Philippines with little kids. In fact, a lot has improved in the Philippines, especially in most metropolitan areas such as Manila and Makati. Many places offer different sights and activities worthy enough to satisfy the adventurous traveler whether child or adult.

The country offers a vast amount of shopping arcades, malls, museums, educational sites, and parks for the enjoyment of children and their families. I suggest you take your kids to SM Mall of Asia in Roxas Boulevard (a gargantuan mall indeed with everything in it; but be careful however, since it's a huge mall, expect a lot of people so keep your kids in the range of sight at ALL times). Your kids could also enjoy going to the Manila Zoo in downtown Metro Manila, or go to Enchanted Kingdom in Santa Rosa, Laguna for a fun day at an amusement park. These are just a few of many activities you can plan doing in order to have an enjoyable and memorable stay in the Philippines!

One more thing: safety always counts anywhere so once again, please remember never to let your children wander out of sight wherever you may go. Remember not to wear anything flashy so as not to attract unwanted attention. Just observe all other precautions in travelling, okay?

Have fun!

Answer 5

If your child has no serious medical condition such as a supressed immune system or asthma, then the answer is probably yes. Keep in mind that rapid, nearby and capable medical care is sparse there. Pollution levels (air and water) especially in the cities is horrendous so the odds are you, much less a child, will come down with some sort of illness the first time around.

Answer 6

Since you had been absent for a long time, there had been many changes in Philippines. Your young children will absolutely love Philippines especially during Christmas holidays.
Your children are muc safer in Philippines street than they are in American streets. Just use a common sense as you would as if you are in USA.
I am glad your children will see the beauty of the country and the people of their roots.

Answer 7

Well, if you feel safe in New York City, I guess you'll feel safer in the Philippines. All the terrorist groups want the Americans, but not the Filipinos I guess.

Answer 8

I am a frequent foreign visitor of the Philippines, Filipino people really like kids trust me, you have nothing to worry about. If you are with your family, You will be respected and feel welcomed.
If your kids are energetic and always want to play, then you should watch out for their safety.
You will be okay.

Answer 9

Yes but the word safe isnt a 100% in all places if your staying in large cities like manila dont let them roam around alone but it is safe in malls and if your in provinces its also not 100% but there much more safer i think

Answer 10

Why wouldn't you? I'm from New York, but live in the Philippines. I feel safe in New York, but much, much safer in Manila.

Answer 11

Absolutely, yes. In fact I've seen a lot of expat (foreigner working here) roaming around in Makati with their family. Some even have their baby with them. They look happy and enjoying their stay here.