Philippines

An archipelago abundant in nature, rich in culture, and filled with pleasant discoveries. Experience the Philippines 7,107 islands, it’s natural wonders, colourful history and warm, engaging people. Over a hundred ethnic groups, a mixture of foreign influences and a fusion of culture and arts have enhanced the uniqueness of the Filipino race and the wonder that is the Philippines.

The Republic of the Philippines is in South-East Asia, consist of 7,107 islands located between the Philippine Sea and the South China Sea, east of Vietnam, and north of Sabah and Borneo.

Things to See and Do

Banaue rice terraces

These rice terraces are 3000 years old, and many are still in use today. The Banaue rice terraces are a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Donsol

Considered the whale shark capital of the world and is said to have the largest number of sightings of these gentle giants anywhere in the world. Unlike in other countries, these creatures are seen all-year round and are in groups.

Bohol

Known locally as a paradise for divers and snorkellers. In addition to white sand beaches, Bohol is also home to the intriguing Chocolate Hills, tarsiers, and Balicasag Island fish sanctuary.

Boracay

A fantastic tropical island, about an hour's flight from Manila, with long white sand beaches. Facilities for the usual water sports activities such as wind surfing, snorkelling, diving and jet skiing are also widely available for those in search of more active pursuits.

The Taal volcano

It’s a dormant volcano with a large crater lake with a small cone rising in the middle. Tagatay is built on the rim of the larger crater.

Climate Conditions

The climate is tropical, with March to May (summer) being the hottest months. The rainy season starts in June and extends through October with strong typhoons possible.

The coolest months are from November to February, with mid-January to end of February considered the best for cool and dry weather. However, locations exposed directly to the Pacific Ocean have frequent rainfall all year. This includes the popular Pagsanjan Falls southeast of Manila (though the falls will get you wet regardless). The average temperatures range from 78°F / 25°C to 90°F / 32°C, and humidity is around 77 percent.

Understand the Culture

A little courtesy goes a long way. Filipinos are a very friendly and hospitable people, sometimes even to a fault. Take the time to smile and say "thank you", and you'll receive much better responses. You will receive an even better response if you throw in a little Tagalog, such as "salamat", which means "thank you".

In the countryside and in some urban homes, footwear is removed when entering a home, though they may make an exception for foreigners. The key is to look around before entering any home. If you see footwear just outside the door, more than likely the family's practice is to remove footwear before entering. If you wear socks, you need not remove them, unless if you suspect that floor is dirty or unsanitary which is very common.

Filipinos are known for not being on time, a trait inherited from the Spaniards, and it is acceptable to come to gatherings a little bit late. However, being off by more than 30 minutes might be considered disrespectful.

The Philippines is by far the largest Christian country in Asia. Catholicism is still taken quite seriously in the Philippines. Masses still draw crowds from the biggest cathedrals in the metropolis to the smallest parish chapels in the countryside. The Catholic Church also still exerts quite a bit of influence even on non-religious affairs such as affairs of state.

Understanding the Geography

There are 17 regions in the Philippines that is classified into three main island groups

Luzon

The northernmost island groups, centre of government, history and economy

• National Capital Region (NCR)
• Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR)
• Ilocos Region
• Cagayan Valley
• Central Luzon
• Calabarzon
• Mimaro
• Bicol Region

Visayas

The central island group, heart of country’s antiquity, nature and biodiversity

• Western Visayas
• Central Visayas
• Eastern Visayas

Mindanao

The southernmost island group showcase Philippines’ indigenous and rich culture

• Zamboanga Peninsula
• Northern Mindanao
• Davao Region
• Soccsksargen
• Caraga Region
• Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM)

These regions are divided into a total of 79 provinces or states, which are then subdivided into cities and or towns. These cities are consisting of towns, which are then diverge into barangays or barrios and are then composed of small sitios or streets.

Cities

• Manila - National capital. The Metropolitan Manila area includes several cities.
• Cebu - Also known as the Queen City of the South, Cebu is the first established indigenous settlement discovered by the west in the Philippines.
• Davao - The largest city in the world in terms of land area.
• Baguio - The country's summer capital, Baguio is a resort city in the mountains known for its cool climate, its Igorot culture and its strawberries.
• Bacolod City - The cleanest, greenest and the most liveable city in the Philippines. Bacolod City is the centre of commerce among neighbouring provinces. Dubbed as the "Sugarbowl of the Philippines".
• Cagayan de Oro - The capital of Misamis Oriental Province. Located along the northern coast of Mindanao, it is known as "The City of Golden Friendship".
• Iloilo City - Situated south in the island of Panay, Iloilo City is one of the major trade centres in the country. The city's port located alongside the mouth of the Iloilo River and the Guimaras Strait provides a natural safe haven to ships against bad weather. Early Chinese and Spanish influences are evident in the city's architecture and commerce. Old Hispanic churches, mansions and forts still stand, weathered against the test of time. The city is a popular detour for travellers en route to Boracay (a world renowned beach). Iloilo City has less expensive hotels compared to other cities. The food is great and very cheap.
• Zamboanga City - "Little Spain" or "Cuidad de Flores" (City of Flowers).
• Puerto Princesa - capital of the island province of Palawan, which lies west of the rest of the Philippine island groups. Considered by many as the last frontier of the Philippines, Puerto Princesa is perhaps the eco-tourism centre of the country.