Philippines

An enchanting Island of the Culture, Nature, and Adventure

It is a tropical paradise consisting of more than 7,600 islands, pure beaches, blooming cities as well as rich history. In the Southeast of Asia, there is an archipelago with interesting combinations of various cultures, historical sites, and modern objects. Whether it is the crystal-clear waters of Boracay or busy-busy Manila streets, the Philippines is a nation that has something to offer every person- it could be adults who want to have adventures and learn more about the history of the country, or beach lovers and admirers of cultures.

This guide will cover various echelons of the Philippines such as its geography, history, culture, economy, attractions and stuff you cannot miss when you visit the country assisting you in gradually finding out or learning what makes this beautiful country so interesting and fascinating.

For an in-depth travel guide, visit the Official tourism guide for Philippines

In case you want to find more information regarding this country, such as its flag, language, area, currency, and population, you can produce and download free  this information by visit in our Random Country Generator tool. 

Note: The tool provides rapid research access on relevant country facts that can be used both in school and personal application

Geographical Location

Philippines occupies the south east part of Asia, in the western Pacific Ocean. It is an island nation comprising over 7,600 islands. It is bound by the South China Sea to the west, the Philippine Sea to the east and by the Celebes Sea to the south. The Philippines forms part of the North of Indonesia, East of Vietnam and South of Taiwan.

The Philippines is one of the major players in Southeast Asia with a total area of 300,000 square kilometers; the 12th largest country in the world by population. There are three geographical regions in the country including Luzon (largest island), Visayas (collection of island sites in the middle), and Mindanao (second-largest island located in the south).

Features of the Natural Landforms

The Philippines is a place that has rugged mountains, volcanoes, tropical forests and plains along the coast. The nation lies on the Pacific Ring of Fire which is indicated by the fact that this country has some of the active volcanoes including Mount Mayon, which features a near cone-like shape. The other significant feature is the Cordillera central mountain range in Luzon which offers breathtaking scenes and varied ecology.

Popular scuba diving and snorkeling site The Philippines is well known for its beaches, coral reefs and many marine creatures. Among the most famous beach destinations in the country include Palawan, Boracay, and Cebu. There is also the existence of magnificent rivers, lakes, and Falls; such as the Pagsanjan Falls, as well as the Taal Volcano Lake.

Key History Ancient and Pre-Colonial History

The Philippines history began thousands of years ago and evidence of human habitation can be traced in caves and in the archaeological sites in the Philippine islands. Most of the trade was already taking place between early Filipino societies and the neighbours like China, India and Malaysia. This was the case with these ancient civilizations which had their way of dealing with the state, culture, and trading.

The arrival of Islam in Mindanao in the 14 th century was one of the most relevant pre-colonial events in the history of the Philippines. Sultanates like the Sultanate of Sulu were established that propagated Islam in the southern Philippines.

Independence and Spanish Colonization

The Philippines was discovered in 1521 by Ferdinand Magellan, Portuguese navigator who was under the Spanish flag. Spain conquered the islands and governed them for more than 300 years; it brought Christianity and fortresses there, as well as the colonial state. The presence of the Spanish is still remembered in the culture, religion and the architectural aspects of the Philippines nowadays.

Following the Spanish-American war, the Philippines were ceded to the U.S in 1898 and the country came under U.S. control. Modernization was a great thing that was witnessed in the Philippines in this period especially in constructions of infrastructures and schools.

The Philippines Revolution and Independence

The need to gain independence resulted in the Philippine Revolution (18961898), which was headed by national heroes including Andres Bonifacio and Emilio Aguinaldo. The revolution was brought to its end with the Philippine-American War (18991902) when the U.S. defeated the Filipino forces and created the government of the Philippines as a colony. The United States would have control over the country until July 4, 1946, when this country became independent.

Post Independence and Modern History

Since its independence the Philippines has been challenged with a number of political and economic problems and one such issue is the declaration of martial law under the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos in the 1970s. The People Power Revolution of 1986 resulted in the removal of Marcos and Corazon Aquino brought back democracy.

The Philippines in the last decades of its development has remained a democratic republic and the country has experienced economic reforms and an attempt to grow and be stable. Nonetheless, the nation continues to deal with the economic issues of poverty, political uncertainties, and disputes over territorial areas with other states, especially in the South China Sea.

Religious and Ethnic Diversity

The Philippines is a nation with diversity in ethnicity, and there are more than 175 known ethnic groups. The most populous ethnolinguistic groups are Tagalog, Cebuano, Ilocano, Hiligaynon and Waray. Most of the Philippine population consists of Malayo-Polynesian ethnicity, with much fewer people being of Chinese, Spanish, and American origin.

The Philippines shows Christianity as the leading religion; with up to 80 percent of the citizens being Roman Catholics and a large proportion of Protestants. The second religion is Islam, where most of the Muslims are found in the region of Mindanao. The Philippines has a variety of religious holidays such as Christmas, Holy week and Eid al-Fitr.

Traditions and Customs Cultural Practices

Another thing that is associated with Filipino culture is the family bond, the sense of community and hospitality. ACuisine

Filipino food is a Malaysian, Chinese, Spanish and American mix. Rice is the main food and different Filipino dishes are rice-based, meaning that most Filipino meals are based on rice including adobo (marinated meat dish), sinigang (a sour soup), lechon (roast pig), and pancit (noodles). There are also sweets such as halo-halo (shaved ice dessert) and bibingka (rice cake).

Traditional Clothing

Traditional wear among the Filipinos differ depending on the region but also commonly includes the barong tagalog among men and the baro saya among the women. Barong tagalog a light ironed shirt decorated with embroidery is mostly worn during formal gatherings whereas baro saya which consists of a dress and long skirt with a blouse is mostly wearable during cultural celebrations and traditional festivals.

The Philippine Economy: Agriculture, Industry, and Service

Agriculture

The Philippines produce a lot of rice, coconut, corn, sugar and tropical fruits, bananas, pineapples, and mangoes. Agriculture is highly essential to the economy of the country but it is accompanied with issues like land reform, climate change and rural poverty.

Manufacturing and Industry

Technological innovation in South Korea and the amount of electronics and automobile industries in this country have helped in their developing manufacturing industry. The other major sector to the economy of the country is mining and oil production and also the textile industries and garment industries of the country are still huge.

Tourism and Services

The Philippine economy has been driven by the services sector especially the business process outsourcing (BPO). The country has become the world BPO leader in many ways. Major international companies are served in the BPO industry which includes customer service, IT support as well as finance.

The economy relies heavily on tourism which is one of the biggest industries in the country where millions of international visitors troop to the country to visit its beaches, heritage sites and natural wonders. The most popular cities there are Manila. Cebu, and Davao, whereas Boracay, Palawan, and Siargao are the appealing coastal destinations that tourists think of when considering the beachy experience.

Historical and Cultural Landmarks

Intramuros: The settlement enclosed by walls of Manila with Manila Fort and San Agustin Church reflecting the history of the country during the colonial times.

Rizal Park –An ancient park of Manila, given the name after the national hero, Jose Rizal.

Vigan – A world heritage center city by Unesco that is identified by its well kept Spanish colonial buildings and cobblestone pavements.

Paoay Church – A piece of work of Baroque architecture that is a UNESCO world heritage site and is very beautiful.

Natural Attractions

Taal Volcano- This is one of the most active volcanoes in the country and it is situated near Manila and is said to have a crater that has a beautiful lake.

Chocolate Hills-The one and only natural wonder of Bohol, the chocolate hills is the name given to the 1268 perfectly cone-shaped hills in the province that turn brown during the dry season that look very much like chocolate heaps.

Palawan – A tropical paradise with its habitat that is ready to wow you with its outstanding beaches, limestone cliffs, and UNESCO World Heritage site, Puerto Princesa Underground River.

Banaue Rice Terraces –A historical and cultural place which is an ancient agricultural masterpiece carved on mountains of the Ifugao.

Healthcare System

Philippines has both the public and the private healthcare systems where the national health policies are maintained in the Department of Health (DOH). Medical tourism is an increasing economic activity in the country, and top-tier health facilities are available in such destinations as Manila and Cebu.

Education System

The Philippines education system is well established and there are three levels that include primary, secondary, and tertiary education. It boasts some of the best Universities with University of the Philippines, Ateneo de Manila University and De La Salle University among them. The educational system of the country centers at enhancing literacy and offering higher learning to everyone.

Ideal Seasons

Along with the dry season between December and May, it is a great time to visit the Philippines because the weather is sunny, and it is ideal to explore beaches and outdoors. Rainy season occurs between the months of June to November where there is heavy precipitation, particularly in the North.

Events and Fairs

When you travel this January, you would not want to miss one of the most colorful festivals and events in the country, the Sinulog Festival in Cebu. Other great cultural experiences are Ati-Atihan (January) and Panagbenga Festival (February).

Conclusion: 

The Philippines is an extraordinarily diverse, historically rich and naturally beautiful country. The appeal to clean beaches, historic sites or the warm culture of this tropical destination is what really attracts tourists to this destination. The Philippines with its respected heritages and modern evolution is indeed one of the most attractive places in all Asia.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit the Philippines?

The Philippines is best visited during the dry months (December to May) since the weather is dry and more suitable for outdoor activities and beach vacation.

What are the best attractions in the Philippines?

Some places that one should not miss are Intramuros, Taal Volcano, Palawan and the Banaue Rice Terraces.

Which languages are spoken in the Philippines?

The official tongues are Filipino and English and there are more than 170 languages and local dialects used in the islands.

Is the Philippines a safe tourist destination?

Yes it is definitely a safe country to visit in regard to tourists yet we must be cognizant of the current affairs in areas of concern as well as in remote places, this is an issue in the Philippines because long ago there were tourist attacks in remote regions.

Which cultural festivals are there to enjoy in the Philippines?

Get a taste of the Filipino culture as you experience Sinulog Festival, Ati-Atihan and Panagbenga Festival.

 The Filipino term called bayanihan which means a tradition of mutual aid and support perfectly describes the communal spirit which exists all over the Philippines.

The Philippines has a rich arts and crafts tradition such as traditional weaving, pottery and woodworking. The nation is also well known to have festivals where each area celebrates a festival like the Sinulog Festival in Cebu, the Ati-Atihan Festival in Kalibo and the Panagbenga Festival in Baguio.