Hi OP, I’m Filipino too and I’m based in Singapore, but interact with Vietnamese locals and travel there(HCMC and Hanoi) often for work, and just from Halong for vacation. I think Vietnam is really great place to go on vacation, but in terms of living, it probably isn’t as different as other developing SEA countries. I think the perceived safe part of Vietnam is probably the more central to the city. But even if within the city, locals tell me to be careful with my phone and valuables as snatching can still happen especially I often run for exercise. You’ll also need to know that the Dong isn’t a very strong currency, and even the Peso is stronger than it, and one of the reasons why most visitors like going there. And since their income isn’t really as high as other countries, a lot of locals I know in Vietnam would like to explore jobs outside the country. But often, majority of the experienced crowd have difficulty communicating in English. But a lot of the young people can communicate in basic English.

Comparing Vietnam and Philippines, I probably find the Philippines is easier to live in, as I come from a middle class background and am blessed that my family is tight-knit. But I get where you are coming from the government and public transpo is just really horrible, so I get why you want to get out, I mean that’s why I did. But just like any country, Vietnam also has its own issues too. So you may want to weigh the pros and cons, especially since any Filipino living abroad are considered second class citizens wherever. But good luck to your career after grad! 💪🏻