Manila vs Bangkok Safety comparison.

28m Australian

I've been to Bangkok and spent a lot of time in other parts of Thailand. All very safe, even in 'shady' parts like Pattaya and Patong. You can walk around any time of the night and be safe as gold. Obviously in Bangkok and Thailand in touristy areas you get rip off con artists and weird scammers, padded bills, shady dealers in Nana but if you have any ounce of common sense you'd avoid it. The only thing I found I found being cautious about were stray dogs in the night, but easily avoided. Otherwise it's a safe place.

I'm interested in visiting Manila and maybe Cebu but I keep on hearing mixed opinions and not much perspective on places Ive been such as thailand. Some say it's dodgy everywhere and you can't go out after dark. Some say as long as you're in Makati or BGC you'd be fine because of all the armed guards, police and security.

Bottom line is how safe is Manila compared to Bangkok or Thailand in general?

Do I have to on my guard all the time? Are pickpockets everywhere? Not a huge concern because i keep everything locked in my bag, but I'd rather at least be okay carrying my phone in my front and a dummy wallet with small cash in the other. Do I have to only take taxis and Grabs at night or I'll be robbed?