Having travelled to the Philipinnes over 45 times, visiting many regions, I have no problem with safety, just use common sence, dont carry huge sums of money, do not wear gold, (there are many snatchers), avoid cetain areas of Mindanao, main citys are ok. Safety in Manila is fine. Unless you are a high profile businessman your not likely to at risk of kidnap. Beware though, plenty of sneak theifs.