I have dual impressions about the Philippines. After having watched and read about rivers full of garbage, piles of trash everywhere, terrible traffic, air filled with toxic smoke, mercury and other poisonous contamination of water and soil I was about to change my mind about going there. On the other hand there are images of beautiful nature, marine life and lots of tourists. So its kind of a place of contrast. Are those claims true or exaggerated? For example with drinking water, can I drink from a spring or should I spend money on bottled water? Another question of concern for me is typhoons; are there islands which are safer than others? I need to form an objective opinion. Your thoughts are welcome.