Steve, I've never had a problem changing cash at one of the many exchange counters in HK or Manila.
Be sensible if you plan to change cash at a street kiosk - Never openly show a wad on the street. If you change a large amount of cash, try to get it back to your hotel room ASAP. Always count and double count what you give them and what they give you in return. Don't start stuffing notes or your wallet in your back bocket on the street. If you can always try to put cash in a front groin area pocket, you are more likely to know if someone is pick pocketing you if they start fumbling with your wedding veg
