Security Message for U.S. Citizens
U.S. Embassy, Manila, Philippines
December 16, 2013
THE EMBASSY OF THE UNITED STATES IS TRANSMITTING THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION AS A PUBLIC SERVICE TO U.S. CITIZENS IN THE PHILIPPINES. PLEASE DISSEMINATE THIS MESSAGE TO ALL U.S. CITIZENS IN YOUR ORGANIZATION OR NEIGHBORHOOD. THANK YOU.
2013 Holiday Security Reminder
The Embassy wishes to remind U.S. citizens that we are in the Christmas holiday season which is a prime time for pickpockets and thieves. U.S. citizens in the Philippines should remain aware that while you may become a victim simply because you find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time, foreigners may also be targeted because they are perceived to be affluent. The Embassy receives regular reports of U.S. citizens who have been the victims of both violent crime and crimes against property, such as theft, burglary and robbery.
Please remain vigilant and maintain an appropriate level of personal security. We offer the following suggestions to help reduce your odds of becoming a victim of crime:
CRIMINAL ACTIVITY
VEHICLE SECURITY - CAR THEFTS
RESIDENTIAL SECURITY
· Control the keys to your residence. A thief with a key has a much easier time.
· Anytime you leave your residence, make sure that all doors and windows are secured.
· During the day, keep the doors locked, even though you and your domestic help may be inside the house.
· Know visitors or other individuals, such as repair men, who may ask to enter your home.
· Secure valuables and important personal documents. Do not leave them lying around.
· During extended periods of absence, consider asking a neighbor or friend to keep an eye on your residence.
· If you are home during a burglary, DO NOT confront the perpetrators. They may very well be armed. Instead, either flee or lock yourself in a secure room and call the police.
· If your residence has an alarm, make sure you use it.
· If you live on a residential compound or in an apartment building, know your area and be aware of the security and safety rules, especially rules for visitor and vehicle access.
SUSPICIOUS ITEMS
PUBLIC DEMONSTRATIONS
Demonstrations in the Philippines are generally peaceful. However, there is always the risk that public demonstrations could get out of control, which could pose a risk to those in the vicinity. Accordingly, we recommend that U.S. citizens always avoid demonstrations or protests. If you find yourself in such a situation, immediately leave the area.
The Embassy recommends carrying a means of communications at all times. If you feel that you are in danger, seek assistance from security personnel or the local authorities. Holidays are a joyful time, and basic security awareness and precautions can decrease the likelihood of an unfortunate occurrence spoiling your holidays.
The Department of State offers tips for travelers abroad on our main website.
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The Embassy is located at 1201 Roxas Boulevard, Manila, Philippines and is open 0730-1600, Monday through Friday. The Embassy's main telephone number is (632) 301-2000. U.S. citizens needing to speak to the Embassy can dial this number and ask to be connected to the American Citizen Services (ACS) unit or with the Embassy Duty Officer (for calls outside of normal business hours). You can also contact the ACS unit through email at or through the Embassy Facebook page. Please visit our website for information on all services offered by the ACS unit.
We strongly recommend that U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in the Philippines enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at www.Travel.State.Gov. STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates, and makes it easier for the U.S. embassy or nearest U.S. consulate to contact you in an emergency. If you don’t have Internet access, enroll directly with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Regularly monitor the State Department's website, where you can find current Travel Warnings, including the Travel Warning for the Philippines, Travel Alerts, and the Worldwide Caution. Read the Country Specific Information for the Philippines. For additional information, refer to “A Safe Trip Abroad” on the State Department’s website.
Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate for up-to-date information on travel restrictions. You can also call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Follow us on Twitter and Facebook, and download our free Smart Traveler iPhone App to have travel information at your fingertips.