The Department of Tourism (DOT) vehemently refuted a report by online travel insurance firm HelloSafe, which erroneously labeled the Philippines as the “least safe country on the planet” in its “HelloSafe Safety Index 2025.” Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco condemned the report as “false” and based on “questionable data, lacking in transparency, and entirely disconnected from realities on the ground.”
Secretary Frasco, in a statement published on her official Facebook page on June 19, 2025, highlighted significant irregularities in HelloSafe’s methodology. She noted the firm’s apparent focus on “driving travel insurance sales rather than ensuring accurate safety assessments,” citing a clear lack of full methodology disclosure and identifiable data sources. Furthermore, the Secretary pointed out the alarming fact that HelloSafe reused an identical score (82.32) for different countries within a mere six-day period.
The Tourism Chief also accused HelloSafe of negligence, revealing that the firm “simply removed the Philippines in the index narrative – without clarification or accountability” after the DOT raised concerns.
Secretary Frasco asserted that the damage inflicted by the erroneous “safety index” has already impacted the nation’s burgeoning tourism sector. “The impact of this false narrative is not abstract. It disrupted bookings and businesses. It cast doubt on our destinations. Worse, it harmed the livelihoods of millions of Filipinos who depend on tourism, and entire communities whose economies rise and fall with the confidence of travelers,” she declared.
In light of these inaccuracies and their detrimental effects, the DOT has formally demanded that HelloSafe “correct all references to the erroneous data against the Philippines across its platforms and to ensure the accuracy and consistency of its reporting tools, including interactive visual assets.”
Secretary Frasco reassured the public and potential tourists that the DOT and relevant authorities are diligently working to ensure a safe, secure, and enjoyable experience for all visitors to the Philippines. She acknowledged existing challenges but emphasized the extensive daily efforts to address them.
“Across our key and emerging destinations, safety is not taken for granted. It is upheld by trained police personnel, supported by strong partnerships with law enforcement agencies and local governments, and reinforced by the commitment of our tourism workers,” Secretary Frasco affirmed.
The Department of Tourism remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting the Philippines as a premier, safe, and welcoming global destination.
