For anyone travelling to the Philippines, be aware that not all places are necessarily safe for travel. There are some areas, particularly in the south of the country that you need to be aware. That doesn't mean you shouldn't go to the south. Your lady friend will keep you safe, and let you know where you can and can not go. There are areas in southern Mindanao, and western Mindanao that requires vigilance. Any areas of the Sulu Sea can get interesting. That doesn't mean that you shouldn't go there. In fact, like I said earlier, your lady friend will keep you safe. She will let you know if there are concerns in the area. Don't listen to everyone. Often, when I am at the airport, waiting to board my flight, I will make small talk with other passengers. When they hear I am going to southern Mindanao, usually their first reaction is...aren't you scared to go there? Many in Manila are scared to go, because they think that behind every coconut tree, is some guy with an AK47 ready to terrorize. that's just not the reality.
Are there bad people in the area? Yes! There is Abu Sayef, the NPA, MLF, and I'm sure other groups. When I am in my wife's home city, I have never felt unsafe or scared. I had one time that we were turned around while driving in the mountains, and I was starting to get concerned that I could inadvertently drive somewhere I shouldn't be. There was a time that we were going on a road trip (yes, I was driving), and I was showing my wife the shortest route to get to where we were headed. She said that we could not go this direction, because it was not safe. So we had to add a couple hours to the trip to avoid this area. That's just the reality.
Make sure you check your governments web page for traveling abroad...check for warnings in the area you are going, and register with your government before going. But don't let the warnings scare you off. The area my wife is from has a warning from the Canadian Government to avoid non-essential travel. Just use common sense. She will keep you safe. Trust her, and enjoy your time together.
