Question Recommended Area for a Hotel Stay in Manila

[Living4Experiences]

I'm traveling to Manila for the first time and then onward to Puerto Galera in March for 10 days of diving at El Galleon. Before going down to PG, I need to get a hotel for a couple of nights away from the airport and in a safe community or geographic area that has restaurants or grocery stores within walking distance. I don't plan on sightseeing, so I don't need to be near tourist attractions. I need air conditioning and a nonsmoking hotel in the $200 or less USD per night range. Any recommendations would be most appreciated.

TIA!!

 

[Centrals]

LOL.
I have been to Manila many times and never ever felt any danger even at night.
You just do not know what you are talking @JonnieB !!
There have been travel warnings or advices to provinces in Southern Thailand eg. Pattani, Navathiwat and Yala by several Western countries for very long time. However, I had travelled to those places and never had any issue with my own personal safety.
BTW, there is NO advice/warning on Manila.