The Philippines
The Philippines is an archipelago in Southeast Asia made up of 7641 islands. The country is divided into 3 island groups: Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.
The Philippines is an archipelago in Southeast Asia made up of 7641 islands. The country is divided into 3 island groups: Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.
Overview
Official Name
Republic of the Philippines
Capital
Manila
Independence Day
12 June 1898
Population, Territory and Currency
Population & total area
114,600,000 (2022 est.)
300,000 square km
Source: CIA World Factbook
Currency
Peso (PHP)
Average price per meal: SGD 4.60
Demographics
Male-Female: 50%-50%
Urban population: 48%
Youth aged 15-24 years: 19.16%
Source: CIA World Factbook (2022)
The Flag
A horizontal bicolour flag with equal bands of blue and red, with a white equilateral triangle at the hoist. In the centre of the triangle is a golden-yellow sun with 8 rays representing the first 8 provinces that courageously revolted against the Spanish, and at each vertex of the triangle is a 5-pointed star each representing the country’s 3 main island groups. White symbolises purity and peace, blue reflects the high political purpose and ideals, while red symbolises courage and bravery.
Key Historical Events
16th century
The Philippines is established as a Spanish colony.
1898
Filipino revolutionaries declared the Philippines as independent on June 12, following the Spanish defeat by the Americans.
1902
Established as a commonwealth under American rule after the capture of Filipino revolutionary leader, Emilio Aguinaldo.
1941-1944
Japanese occupation.
1946
Independence from Amercian rule after World War II. Renamed the Republic of the Philippines.
1972
Ferdinand Marcos declares martial law.
1983
Anti-Marcos lawyer Benigno Aquino is assassinated.
1986
Marcos ousted in "people power" revolt, Corazon Aquino installed as President
Economic Profile
The Philippines economy recorded a 5.6 percent full-year growth in 2021, an impressive number reflecting a rapid recovery despite the negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. A newly industrialised country, the Philippines’ economy has been transitioning from being agriculturally focused to expanding more to services, manufacturing and industries.
Key Industries
Manufacturing
Manufacturing grew at a rate of 8.6% in 2021, with the Philippines focusing on consumer, intermediate and capital goods. The country’s primary exports include electronics, semiconductors and transport equipment.
Construction and Infrastructure
The construction industry registered an exponentially high growth rate of 9.8%, driven by a rising number of construction projects, implementation of various governmental and infrastructural projects as well as the Philippines’ growing urbanisation and population.
Lifestyle & Consumer Goods
Supported by a population of more than 110 million that increases by 2 million every year, the Philippines is one of the largest growing consumer markets in Southeast Asia.
Places of Interest
Boracay White Beach
Located in Western Visayas
Apart from its white sand beaches, Boracay is also famous for being one of the world’s top destinations for relaxation.
Underground River
National Park
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (1999) and New7Wonders of nature (2012). The park has a limestone karst mountain with an underground river cave.
Local Food
Adobo
Considered by many to be a Filipino national dish, it consists of slowly simmered chicken/pork/seafood marinated in vinegar, soy sauce and garlic.
Lechon
Commonly served during special occasions and festivals, it refers to roasted suckling pig which is cooked in an open fire until the skin becomes crispy.
Kare Kare
A popular dish in the Philippines served during special occasions, it is a type of Filipino stew with a rich and thick peanut sauce.
Major Festivals
Independence Day
A celebration of independence from the Spanish on 12 June 1898, this day commemorates the sacrifices of the national heroes and appreciates the country’s sovereignty. As a national holiday, businesses and schools are closed, allowing families to take part in celebratory activities such as the annual parades.
Good Friday and Christmas
With a majority Catholic population, key religious events such as Good Friday and Christmas are observed nationwide.