The Republic of the Philippines is an archipelago located in South East Asia’s outer most region nearing the Pacific Ocean. With neighbouring countries being Malaysia to its southwest, Taiwan in the north and Vietnam to its far west. Richly abundant in natural wonders, with its Spanish and American colonial history and fusion cultures of ethnic and foreign influences, this is a mesmerizing destination that will add to your colourful experience of Asia.
History & People: The first Philippine settlers were believed to be Negritos, or Aetas, who travelled to the archipelago over seven thousand years ago. Later, Austronesian tribes followed, bringing along with them trade ventures with the Chinese, Japanese, Thai and Indians. Portuguese explorer, Ferdinand Magellan’s arrival to the Philippines in 1521 as a Spanish Expedition, was the republic’s first western influence that led it to become a permanent Spanish colony for over 300 years. The country was thus named the Philippines in honour of the Spanish King Philip II. Previously a largely Hindu and Islamic settlement, the arrival of the Spanish also brought about a huge conversion of the natives to Catholicism.
In late 19th century, the Filipino people began a revolt and fought the Spaniards for independence. The United States’ own war against the Spanish at the same time, gave them the opportunity to form an alliance with the Filipinos and oust the Spanish. However, the American’s aid instead became its first attempt at imperialism. The Philippines finally gained independence from the United States and became a republic in 1946.
Population: 87 million; with 2/3 of the population congregated in the island of Luzon. This is the world’s 12th most populous country.
Language: Tagalog and English are the official languages. Although, there are over 170 languages and dialects spoken throughout.
Geography & Region: The country is made up of 79 provinces (or states); divided into three main areas – Luzon, the Visayas and Mindanao. The nation’s capital is Manila, in Luzon. The archipelago lies in the Western Pacific typhoon belt; and northwestern fringes of the Pacific Ring of Fire, meaning mountainous regions scattered across the country are of volcanic origin.
Climate: Generally hot, humid and tropical averaging 26.5°C; with mainly three seasons – hot season from March to May, rainy season from June to November, and cool season from December to February (also known as typhoon off-season).
Getting there: International travellers to the Philippines would arrive in the Manila (the capital city), Cebu, Davao, Subic Bay or Clark airports, depending on which region you're heading to.
Attractions: The country is mostly renown for its plentiful tropical sandy beaches and idyllically secluded islands. But also has alluring tropical rainforest wonders, challenging surfs, majestic volcanic mountains and intriguing indigenous cultures to explore.
- Boracay Island is the most popular destination, offering fine white powdery sand beaches, an array of water sport activities and a vivacious nightlife.
- Puerto Princessa, Palawan boasts fabulous beaches and resorts for visitors who come to dive at the Tubbataha Reef National Marine Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Mt Pinatubo - Take a trek to the world famous volcano’s jewel blue crater lake.
- Puerto Galera, on the island of Mindoro, is a favourite getaway for Manila’s city dwellers, with diving, snorkelling and jungle trekking activities available.
- Banaue is home to the majestic 2000-year old rice terraces carved into the Ifugao mountains, often labelled as the “Eighth Wonder of the World”.
- Echo Valley, Sagada is famous for its hanging coffins. A lost tradition of the Igorot tribe, these coffins are placed in carved holes on limestone cliffs.
- Baroque Churches - Built in the16th century, these churches captures Spanish Baroque architecture uniquely interpreted by Chinese and Filipino craftsmen. A UNESCO World Heritage site, these four churches are in Manila, Santa Maria, Paoay and Miag-ao.
- Siargao is a surfer’s paradise and home to the renown Cloud 9 wave. The island is host to the annual Siargao Cup.
- Bohol Island, in Central Visayas, has the Chocolate Hills – limestone hills that look like chocolate drops.
