Security in Manila

There are security guards everywhere in Manila: the bank, the mall, my hostel, hospitals, I think I even saw one at a restaurant. And they’re no rent-a-cops. These guys carry shotguns, pistols, batons, handcuffs and who knows what else.

On one hand, I know nothing will go down around a bunch of armed guards; but on the other hand, I’m uneasy about why so many owners appear to think they’re worth the expense. Everyone I’ve met in Manila has been extremely friendly, even in the bad neighborhoods like Payatas, but seeing these guys around reminds me to cradle my camera close to me.

(On a separate note, I haven’t seen any actual police officers around. Strange.)