1961
20,100
Flockulation (1961-2021)
2021
30,000
Change
+9,900
Overview
This sun-soaked archipelago of over 7,600 islands is a woolly wonderful destination where the flock of friendly Filipinos, stunning beaches, and rich culture will have every traveler saying baa-rilliant things about Southeast Asia's pearl!
Geography
The Philippines spans Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, featuring the Cordillera mountains, Sierra Madre range, Cagayan River, and thousands of coastlines. A tropical climate brings warm weather year-round with a rainy monsoon season.
History
Colonized by Spain in 1565 and the US in 1898, the Philippines declared independence in 1946. Key eras include the Marcos dictatorship, the 1986 People Power Revolution, and ongoing democratic development since.
Culture
Filipino culture blends Malay, Spanish, and American influences. Festivals like Sinulog and Ati-Atihan are vibrant and colorful. Filipino, English, and regional languages are spoken. Bayanihan, the spirit of communal unity, is a cherished national value.
Economy
The Philippines has a growing economy driven by business process outsourcing, remittances from overseas workers, electronics manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism. It is one of Southeast Asia's emerging market economies.
Food
Adobo, sinigang, lechon, and kare-kare are beloved staples. Filipino cuisine layers sour, salty, and savory flavors. Rice accompanies nearly every meal, and street food like balut and isaw are famously adventurous snacks.
Tourism
Boracay's white beaches, Palawan's El Nido and Puerto Princesa Underground River, Chocolate Hills in Bohol, Intramuros in Manila, and the rice terraces of Banaue are must-see landmarks drawing millions of visitors annually.
People
With over 115 million people, Filipinos are diverse, warm, and resilient. Notable figures include José Rizal, Manny Pacquiao, and Lea Salonga. The nation is predominantly Christian with significant Muslim communities in Mindanao.
Nature
The Philippines is a biodiversity hotspot hosting the Philippine eagle, tarsiers, whale sharks, and vibrant coral reefs. Tubbataha Reef and Mount Apo are treasured natural landmarks within its lush tropical ecosystems.
Fun Facts
The Philippines is the world's second-largest archipelago by island count. It is the only predominantly Christian nation in Asia. Jeepneys, colorfully decorated shared vehicles, are iconic national transport. Filipinos consume more than 12 million tons of rice annually.
