With islands galore, a variety of foods, and ethnicities, and a community inspired culture, the Philippines is always a beautiful destination to explore!
About Philippines
Climate
The Philippines have a tropical maritime climate, meaning the weather is generally hot and quite humid. The region really only experiences three seasons, a hot dry summer between March and May known as tag-init, a wet season between June and November known as tag-ulan and a cooler dry season between December and February known as tag-lamig. The Philippines weather patterns are created by the prevailing winds of the southwest monsoon (known as the habagat) from May to October and the northeast monsoon (known as the amihan) from November to early May. Average temperatures in the Philippines usually range between 21 °C (70 °F) and 32 °C (90 °F) with the average yearly temperature coming in at around 26.6 °C (79.9 °F).
The Philippines has 12 international airports, and has more than 20 major and minor domestic airports serving the country. The Ninoy Aquino International Airport is the main international gateway to the Philippines.
Transportation in the Philippines is relatively underdeveloped, partly due to the country's mountainous areas and scattered islands, and partly as a result of the government's persistent underinvestment in the nation's infrastructure. Jeepneys are the most popular mode of public transportation in the Philippines, they have also become a ubiquitous symbol of the Philippine culture. Another popular mode of public transportation in the country is the motorized tricycle; they are especially common in rural areas. Trains are also becoming a popular mode of public transportation in the country especially in the bustling metropolis of Manila. The Philippines has three main railway networks: the Manila Light Rail Transit System composed of the LRT-1 and LRT-2 and Manila Metro Rail Transit System composed of the MRT-3 which only serves Metro Manila and the Philippine National Railways which also serves the metropolis and some parts of Luzon. There are also steam engines found in Visayas which operate sugar mills such as Central Azucarera. Taxis and buses are also important modes of public transport in urban areas.
Bangka boats are outriggers that are also referred to as Banca or paraw. It is a double-outrigger with very narrow main hulls. There are many variations of the boat available and can be utilized in an impressive amount of ways.
Manila capital of Philippines
Here are some fun facts about Manila you should know:
● From a bird’s eye view, the Manila City Hall is shaped like a coffin with a cross on it.
● The name 'Manila' has a special meaning. The original name was "MayNilad". The name means: 'where the blossoming water plants grow'.
● Spanish style house, monasteries, churches and schools were built within walls of Intramuros. Seven gates were the connection with 'the outside world'.
● The flagpole located in Rizal Park, is where the starts of 0 kilometer reading in measuring all distances from Manila.
Manila Street Art
Unlike traditional artworks on canvases placed in air-conditioned galleries, street art; from graffiti to murals, is, well, found on the streets. You can see it on gutters, lampposts, demolished walls, parking lots, pavements, and basically anywhere. The pieces are often done late at night, when the police or guards aren't around to reprimand the artist for spray-painting on the walls. Street art still bears the stigma of being equated with vandalism. However, the local street artists prove that art goes beyond art fairs and exhibits, and even building owners, restaurateurs, and cultural agencies have commissioned them to design otherwise bare walls. To spot them, you should be on the lookout while driving around Metro Manila.
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History
The Philippines is named after King Philip II of Spain (1556-1598) and it was a Spanish colony for over 300 years. Today the Philippines is an archipelago of 7,000 islands. However it is believed that during the last ice age they were joined to mainland Asia by a land bridge, enabling human beings to walk from there.
In the beginning of the 3rd century, the inhabitants of Luzon island were in contact and trading with East Asian seafarers and merchants including the Chinese. In the 1400's the Japanese also established a trading post at Aparri in Northern Luzon. In 1380, Muslim Arabs arrived at the Sulu Archipelago and established settlements which became mini-states ruled by a Datu. They introduced Islam in the southern parts of the archipelago including some parts of Luzon and were under the control of the Muslim sultans of Borneo. They had a significant influence over the region for a couple of hundreds years. The Malay Muslims remained dominant in these parts until the 16th century. The Spaniards did not gain a foothold in the Philippines until 1565 when Miguel Lopez de Legazpi led an expedition, which built a fort in Cebu. Later, in 1571 the Spaniards landed in Luzon. Here they built the city of Intramuros (later called Manila), which became the capital of the Philippines. Spanish conquistadors marched inland and conquered Luzon.
In 1872 there was a rebellion in Cavite but it was quickly crushed. However nationalist feelings continued to grow helped by a writer named Jose Rizal (1861-1896). He wrote two novels Noli Me Tangere (Touch me Not) and El Filibusterismo (The Filibusterer) which stoked the fires of nationalism. In 1892 Jose Rizal founded a movement called Liga Filipina, which called for reform rather than revolution. As a result Rizal was arrested and exiled to Dapitan on Mindanao. Meanwhile Andres Bonifacio formed a more extreme organisation called the Katipunan. In August 1896 they began a revolution. Jose Rizal was accused of supporting the revolution, although he did not and he was executed on December 30, 1896. Yet his execution merely inflamed Filipino opinion and the revolution grew.
On December 8, 1941, the Japanese invaded the Philippines hours after bombing Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. While the forces of Gen. Douglas MacArthur retreated to Bataan, the Commonwealth government of President Quezon moved to Corregidor Island. Manila was declared an open city to prevent further destruction. After the fall of Bataan on April 9, 1942 and Corregidor, In March 1942, MacArthur & Quezon fled the country and by invitation of President Roosevelt, the Commonwealth government went into exile to Washington D.C. American and Filipino forces surrendered on May 6, 1942. Soon a guerrilla war against the Japanese was fought by the Philippine & American Armies while Filipinos were enduring the cruelty of the Japanese military against civilians. In October 1944, Gen. MacArthur with President Sergio Osmeña (who assumed the presidency after Quezon died on August 1, 1944 in exile in Saranac Lake, New York) returned and liberated the Philippines from the Japanese. On July 4, 1946, Manuel Roxas of the Nationalista Party was inaugurated as the first President of the Republic of the Philippines.
The Philippines is the only country in the entire world that has two different flags for peace and wartime. When the country is at peace, the red portion will be at the bottom of the flag. The opposite indicates the country is at war.
Culture
The Philippines is commonly referred to as a melting pot of western and eastern cultures. The traditional culture of the Philippines is heavily influenced by the traditions of the indigenous Austronesian people. The cultural landscape also features Spanish, American, Japanese, Arabic, and Indonesian influence. The major religions in the country are Christianity and Islam which have played a significant role in shaping the culture of the Philippines.
The Philippines is filled with beautiful sceneries, rich culture and tons of friendly and welcoming people.
Here are some facts in what to expect with Filipino people:
● You will be surrounded by tons of delicious food!
● They’ll treat you like family.
● They’ll feed you as well as your grandma does.
● They exude positivity.
● They’re among the friendliest people you’ll come across.
● They have a fantastic sense of humour.
● They are empathetic and helpful.
● They’re the most interesting mix of different cultures.
● They’ll upgrade your Insta feed.
Interacting with Filipinos is part of the unique travel experience in the Philippines. Click the link below to get started on planning your vacation to the Philippines.
The Philippine peso, also referred to by its Filipino name piso, plural pesos; Philippine peso (PHP) is the official currency of the Philippines. It is subdivided into 100 centavos or sentimos in Filipino. As a former colony of the United States, the country used English on its currency, with the word "peso" appearing on notes and coinage until 1967. Since the adoption of the usage of the Filipino language on banknotes and coins, the term "piso" is now used.
In the Philippines, due to a history of multiple settlements, more than 170 languages are spoken and only 2 of them are official in the country: Filipino and English. The Eight (8) major dialects are Bikol, Cebuano, Hiligaynon (Ilonggo), Ilocano, Kapampangan, Pangasinan, Tagalog, and Waray.
The Philippines are the only nation in Asia that is over 85% Christian. The majority of that percentage being Roman Catholic. The second highest religious group is Muslim, with 5.7%.
Religion holds a central place in the life of most Filipinos, including Catholics, Muslims, Buddhists, Protestants, and animists. It is central not as an abstract belief system, but rather as a host of experiences, rituals, ceremonies, and adjurations that provide continuity in life, cohesion in the community, and moral purpose for existence. Religious associations are part of the system of kinship ties, patron client bonds, and other linkages outside the nuclear family. Three out of four Filipinos consider their religion to be “very important,” according to the latest survey of the Social Weather Stations Inc. (SWS).
In the Philippines, Christmas begins in September and ends in January during the 'Feast of the Three Kings.' Food and traditions are very similar to America. The countdown from September to January is known as the "Ber Months" and includes decorations and lots of parties.
These are names of two of the Philippines' traditional folk dances. These dances are unique and are being preserved by the Bayanihan Philippine National Folk-Dance Company. When performing during special occasions, Filipinos dress in national garb.
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The Experience
Nature
Due to its geography, the Philippines is interspersed with rolling mountain ranges, stunning viewpoints, and beautiful natural landscapes. The best thing about them? The picturesque climbing views along the way, topped with jaw-dropping summit views. Think of a rolling sea of clouds amongst the rise and fall of mountain peaks, stretching out for miles. Let’s just say you’ll get a real sense of fulfillment when you see these views! While the Philippines is a lot more famous for its incredible islands and beaches, it doesn’t mean that the mountains here aren’t as noteworthy. Namely, Mt. Batulao, Batangas; Mount Daraitan, Rizal; Mount Pulag, Kabayan, Nueva Vizcaya; Mount Pinatubo, Tarlac, Pampanga; Mount Kanlaon, Negros and Mount Apo, Davao del Sur.
Mount Pulag in the colorful pages of ancient cultural history of the Philippines as “its third largest peak.” The marvelous and colossal Mount Pulag which is otherwise known as Mount Pulog is Luzon’s highest summit with a gyrating height of 2,922 meters above sea level. Interestingly, the most wonderful allusion of its name as Mount Pulag simply means “The Playground of the Gods”. Hence, it’s an out of this world and famous’ fauna expedition that will surely leave you breathless from the very day that you have decided to have the most memorable commune with Mount Pulag.
With a total of 37 volcanoes in the Philippines, there are 22 active. Located in the "Pacific Ring of Fire," there are roughly four earthquakes per day.
Because of the volcanoes, the mineral deposits are incredibly abundant. The Philippines are believed to have the second-largest gold deposit, following with the first largest copper deposit in the World.
The Philippines is blessed with a good number of waterfalls, scattered all throughout the archipelago, just awaiting weary travelers. Here are some of the best waterfalls in the country:
Buruwisan Falls in Siniloan, Laguna; After a trek to reach this beautiful falls, the serene beauty of the scenery can take away the tiredness.
Kawasan Falls in Badian, Cebu; A beautiful waterfall located in the southern portion of Cebu, Kawasan is popular among tourists unlike Inambakan located just a few kilometers away.
Tinuy-An Falls in Bislig, Surigao del Sur; Often called the “Niagara of the Philippines'', Tinuy-an is definitely one of the best waterfalls in the country. This multilevel curtain waterfall is a dreamy destination.
The Philippines is a great way to experience what the underwater world has to offer. With more than 7,500 islands surrounded by vast coral reefs, the Philippines is the ideal place to enjoy the water, whether you're a newbie or a pro. There are numerous great snorkel sites in the waters around Camiguin, which together make up more than 40 locally protected marine areas where fishing is prohibited. Another of the best snorkeling areas is around Balicasag Island, just southwest of Duljo Point on Bohol, where you are likely to have the place to yourselves. At Apo Island, a UNESCO Heritage site near Dumaguete, sea turtles are the stars of the show, where they flock to munch on the abundant seagrass.
Animal Species
The Philippines have had 16 species discovered in the past decade (300 total). That makes them the highest in the world. Some findings include the new sea slugs, sea stars, Patelomera, and countless new coral species.
Longest Snake – Already a second World record here; the Reticulated Python is the longest in the world, reaching up to 29 feet. The snake also doubles as the longest reptile. Luckily, as with all pythons, they are non-venomous.
Places You Must Visit
El Nido
El Nido is the most popular holiday destination in Palawan, the westernmost province in the Philippines. It is a first-class municipality that also comprises 45 islands and islets. “The Nest” owes its name to the fact it’s an important turtles’ breeding area. Famous for its white sand beaches, turquoise waters, coral reefs, and splendid limestone rock formations similar to those of Ha Long Bay in Vietnam or Phang Nga Bay in Thailand. As for activities, sea kayaking is the favorite eco-friendly way to explore the nooks and crannies of each island. Snorkeling and scuba diving are the activities that first began to put El Nido on the bucket-list of many travelers.
Balabac Island
Balabac Island is actually a group of islands and islets that is located in the south-westernmost tip of the province of Palawan in the Philippines and is considered a paradise unspoiled by civilization. Here, you will find virgin island beaches surrounded by perfectly turquoise waters, as well as colorful endemic flora, fauna and marine life. You can also visit other places of interest, such as the century-old Spanish era Melville Lighthouse, the old and forgotten fort of Ulitan, the historical marker on Ramos Island, the ruins of Spanish structure at Larindon Bay, the firefly-watching spot in Sebaring and a hidden waterfalls in the mountains. With all the beautiful things the place offers, it would be a great choice of destination for your next holiday!
Huma Island
Huma Island is an unparalleled destination for an indulgent break in the Philippine paradise of Palawan province. Huma island is a private enclave with abundant marine life, startling white beaches and a lush rainforest landscape. This immaculate resort boasts of 81 contemporary over water and beach villas with private Jacuzzis and butler service as well as an outstanding range of restaurants, bars and leisure facilities. It is an idyllic hideaway for couples and small groups to pamper and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Palawan, whether through scuba diving, snorkeling or island hopping.
Bohol
Bohol is famous for its hills that look like perfect mounds of chocolate. Another gem of the Visayas, Bohol is a tropical haven of natural beauty, the coastline of the province is skimmed by gentle coves and white sand beaches. You can find some of the country's great dive sights here. Balicasag in Bohol is one of the very best and most popular dives in the Visayas. A black coral forest is among its main attractions but virtually anywhere you drop in is sure to be rewarding. Another major attraction, Cabilao is renowned for the hammerhead sharks that shoal around the clear waters. Large pelagics are very common here, and if you are really lucky, you can find yourself swimming with a passing school of dolphins.
Bucket List
- Float together on a river canyon
- Swim with the whale sharks in Oslob, Cebu
- Try cliff-diving at Siquijor
- Climb and conquer Mount Pulag
- Mingle with the locals on top of a jeepney
- Learn to surf at Baler, Aurora
Family Travel Highlights
- Bike around Batanes
- Go strawberry picking in Baguio
- Take horseback riding lessons at El Kabayo in Subic
- See wildlife at the Calauit Safari Park in Palawan
- Visit all the islands in Hundred Islands National Park
- Release turtle hatchlings back to the sea at Montemar Beach Club in Bataan
Photography Hot Spots
- Mayon Volcano, Albay
- Kayangan Lake, Coron, Palawan
- Calle Crisologo, Vigan, Ilocos Sur
- Las Casa Filipinas de Azucar, Bagac, Bataan
- Taal Volcano, Batangas
- Caramoan Islands, Camarines Sur
- Inflatable Island
- Banaue Rice Terraces
- Boracay Island
- Pinto Art Museum
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Cuisine
The history of Filipino food dates back to the pre-Spanish era, the Malay introduction of boiling, roasting and steaming of the livestock and seafood they have. The Spanish settlers during the Spanish era also introduced many spices that are now common in Filipino food. Of course, there are still the original Filipino dishes which can only be found here in the Philippines. These are the ones invented over the years by Filipinos from different regions. Then of course what you should really try is the exotic street foods like taho, kwek-kwek, betamax and balut. Experience rich culture in Filipino delicacies!
Foods To Try
- Adobo: the famous Filipino dish
- Lechon: Fully roasted pig
- Dinuguan: Dark-tinted Filipino stew
- Tapsilog: Filipino comfort dish
- Balut: duck embryo street food snack
- Kare Kare: oxtail stew
- Kinilaw: raw fish salad
- Sinigang: sour meat stew
- Lomi: Noodle dish
- Sotanghon: Noodle dish
- Mami: Noodle soup
- Halo halo: a cheeky desert
- Champorado: chocolate rice pudding
This is hands down the national dish! A great tasting simple Ilocano cuisine that includes pepper, soy sauce, garlic, bay leaves, and vinegar. You can swap the chicken out for seafood, beef, or pork. It is simply delightful.
Champorado is a Filipino chocolate rice porridge that is traditionally served for breakfast. Chocolate for breakfast may sound like a dream, but there’s a caveat. It’s typically served with tuyo (dried salted fish). Champorado may perhaps be the original chocolate cereal as it is quite literally a "chocolate cereal". it can be likened to a warm bowl of oatmeal crossed with a chocolate bar. While chocolate is the main ingredient of this dish, it’s not very sweet. Rather, this porridge highlights the complexities of dark chocolate. Much of the sweetness and creaminess comes from the milk drizzled on top. I’m sure you want to start packing and have a taste of this Filipino dish right?
Beverages
Drinks To Try
- Buko pandan juice
- Sago’t gulaman
- Pure coconut juice
- Kapeng Barako
- Salabat
- Lambanog
- Tuba
Experience rich culture in Filipino delicacies! I’d love to help you plan your trip so be sure to click the link below when you’re ready to start planning.
Shopping in the Philippines
Before you leave the Philippines, make sure you grab some of these souvenirs to take home with you!
Souvenirs To Buy
- Woven Clothing
- Woodcrafts
- Miniature Jeepneys
- Dried Mangoes
- Balisong Knife
- Philippine Pearls
- Shell-Made products
- Banig Products
- Coffee Alamid
- Traditional Philippine Salakot
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Wanting to see a little bit more about the Philippines and what they have to offer? Check out this short video on the Philippines.