Manila to national government: Ensure tourists’ safety

MANILA, Philippines — Following a report that ranked Manila as the fifth “riskiest city for tourists,” the city government called on the national government to do its share in ensuring tourists are safe while visiting the country.

In a statement, the local government said the report by Forbes Advisor – which identified Manila as the fifth “riskiest city for tourists” – could have pertained to a wider area beyond the city of Manila, whether “the whole Metro Manila or possibly also including the suburbs just outside of the capital region.”

Forbes Advisor was also catering to a “high net worth audience and clientele typical of tourists categorized among business class and first class airline passengers,” noted the city government.

The city government then called on national government agencies “to make all of Metro Manila a livable and safe metropolis.”

Considering these factors, the city government maintained it is carrying out measures that would ensure not only tourists but everyone in Manila, especially residents, are safe.

For instance, concerned city government units inspect the buildings – particularly the hotels and condominium buildings where “high net worth” tourists stay – and its personnel are trained to respond to disasters.

The city government added that the Manila Police District is “quite mindful of its mission to keep everyone safe in the city and they have performed well,” but is also reminded to “(make) room for improvement and they should outpace and stay ahead of the criminals.”