Will we be safe? That was one of the questions we had in mind before departure. We had heard so many stories about the dangers of Manila. Equally, we had heard stories that Manila is as safe or dangerous as any other major city in the world. But to answer this question we could not rely on a handful of anecdotes. So here we present some of our digested…anecdotes.
Leaving Finland we were scared. Arriving in Manila and sitting in the back of the car on the way from the airport to the hotel each person walking along the streets with slightly torn and dirty clothes induces fear in us. To arrive at the hotel was a relief, at least it felt safe.
The next day we ventured outside the hotel premises. We were scared. Each corner was of concern. Making it to the mall we could relax. Returning after dark we were back to scary square one.
Slowly, as we walked down new streets our courage grew. The only way not to be scared was to expose yourself to Manila, without getting burned.
So far we have understood that the question if Manila is safe, is too broad. First, Manila is not a city. Manila is a bunch of cities that have grown together. More specifically: Caloocan, Las Pinas, Makati, Malabon, Mandaluyong, Marikina, Muntinlupa, Navotas, Paranaqua, Pasay, Pasig, Quezon City, San Juan, Taguig, Valenzuela and Pateros (Wikipedia). Second, feeling safe is subjective. Where you may feel safe, someone else may feel scared.
Two locals we have spoken to said that the President’s policies have resulted in them feeling safer in Manila. We have no comment. This topic needs further exploring. Certainly, some research and facts would be useful. Until next time.
