Filipinos visiting Vietnam urged to secure travel insurance amid food poisoning cases

The Philippine Embassy in Hanoi advised Filipinos visiting Vietnam to obtain travel insurance in case of medical emergencies amid incidents of food poisoning in the country.

"Travel insurance ensures adequate funding to cover medical and other emergencies," the embassy said in an advisory issued last September 8.

The embassy's bulletin also asks Filipinos to take necessary precautions concerning food and water sanitation.

"While in Viet Nam, Filipino travelers and residents are advised to patronize only hotel and restaurant facilities of good repute and standard. Drinking bottled water is highly recommended," it added.

Citing data from Vietnam's Ministry of Health, the embassy said 84 food poisoning outbreaks were recorded in 2025, affecting 2,301 people and killing 16 individuals.

In the first half of 2026, Vietnam already recorded 58 food poisoning outbreaks, with 1,573 people affected and 10 people dead.

During medical emergencies, the embassy encouraged Filipinos in Vietnam to reach out to +84 904 126 164 via SMS/WhatsApp/Viber/Zalo or through hanoipe.atn@dfa.gov.ph.

— VDV, GMA News