The archipelagic country of Philippines (Pilipina) is in Southeast Asia, lying in the western Pacific Ocean (Philippine Sea on the east, the Celebes Sea on the southwest and South China Sea on the west).
Comprising 7,641 islands, and a total coastline of 36,289 kilometres (22,549 mi), the Philippines are an excellent seaside destination, with wonderful beaches, caves and other shoreline attractions, as well as diving spots. In fact, the maritime waters of the Philippines host an abundant and unique ecosystem, part of the marine area of Coral Triangle.
It is one of the most biologically megadiverse countries in the world, featuring extensive tropical rainforests, with rich plant and animal life.
In the archipelago there are distinctive cultural attractions, namely landmarks, as a result of the mix of cultural influences by Asian counties, mainly Malay, as well as Spanish and American.
Philippines capital, Manila, is east of Manila Bay, showing a combination of modern skyscrapers and Spanish colonial architecture. In the centre of Old Manila is the walled city of Intramuros, featuring colonial era landmarks such as Fort Santiago.
One the most popular resort cities in the Philippines is Samal, in Davao Gulf, in the southern part of the archipelago.
Population: approximately a hundred and one million people
Capital: Manila
Other major cities: Quezon City, Davao City, City of Caloocan, City of Cebu
Religion: Catholicism (81%)
Climate: tropical maritime climate
Main attractions: White Beach, Boracay, Manila, City of Vigan, Mayon Volcano (Albany), Banaue Rice Terraces, Chocolate Hills, Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, Pagsanjan Falls, Magellan's Cross, Hundred Islands National Park, National Museum of the Philippines, wreck diving in Coron Bay, Coral Garden (Coron), Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Bamboo Hanging Bridge (Bohol)
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