By Nimfa L. Estrellado A view of Lucena City, recently ranked by the World Travel Index as the fifth safest city for travelers in the Phil...
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| A view of Lucena City, recently ranked by the World Travel Index as the fifth safest city for travelers in the Philippines for 2025, a testament to its secure environment. (Ralff Nestor Nacor) |
LUCENA CITY, Quezon – Bringing national recognition and bolstering its appeal to tourists, Lucena City has earned a prestigious spot as the fifth safest city to visit in the Philippines for 2025, as unveiled by the widely acclaimed World Travel Index (WTI). This recognition stems from the city's strong performance across key safety indicators, including low crime rates and a secure environment for visitors.
The city achieved a safety score of 75.24% in WTI's comprehensive study. This score is a testament to its secure environment, derived from evaluating various Crime Index subcategories. These subcategories critically assess safety during day and night, and freedom from theft, drug-related incidents, and violence.
The detailed methodology of WTI, a globally recognized authority in travel safety, ensures that rankings are based on objective criteria such as actual crime rates, levels of public security, and specific occurrences reported for theft, drug-related activities, and violence. These factors collectively reflect real-world conditions experienced by both residents and tourists, providing a robust basis for their global comparisons.
This significant acknowledgment is largely due to the ongoing and proactive efforts of the local government, spearheaded by Mayor Kuya Mark Alcala and Vice Mayor Roderick Dondon Alcala. Since assuming office in 2022, their administration has prioritized robust peace and order programs, including enhanced police visibility, community engagement initiatives, and focused efforts to curb criminality.
These strategic interventions have visibly contributed to a reduction in overall crime rates in key areas, fostering a more secure atmosphere for residents and visitors alike. For instance, while a report from February 2025 indicated a surge in crimes against property in late 2024 and early 2025, largely attributed by local police to issues like online gambling, the consistent efforts of the city's leadership in other areas of public safety, such as those related to violence and drug-free environments, have maintained Lucena's high standing in the WTI index.
The city's inclusion in the WTI's top safest cities list is expected to further boost tourism, attracting both domestic and international visitors who prioritize secure travel experiences. This recognition can lead to increased investments, job creation in the hospitality sector, and improved local infrastructure, all contributing to the city's overall economic prosperity. Safe cities are often seen as more attractive for investment and sustainable development.
Meanwhile, WTI also recognized Dumaguete City as the Top 1 Safest City to Travel in the Philippines, followed closely by Davao City in second place, Bulacan in third, and Balanga City in fourth. These cities, alongside Lucena, exemplify the commitment of local Philippine governments to ensuring a safe and pleasant experience for all who visit.
The World Travel Index bases its rankings on diverse factors such as crime rates, security measures, and the overall socio-economic development of cities worldwide, providing a valuable resource for travelers making informed decisions about their destinations. Lucena City's achievement underscores its dedication to fostering a safe and welcoming environment, positioning it as a prime choice for travelers in the coming year.
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