Geographical position and Climate of Philippines
The Philippines is an archipelago situated in Southeast Asia, located in the Western Pacific Ocean. It consists of more than 7,600 islands and islets lying about 800 kilometers off the coast of Vietnam. The country is geographically divided into three main regions: Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. The largest island, Luzon, is home to the nation’s capital, Manila.
The climate in the Philippines is tropical and maritime, which means it usually experiences hot, humid weather and abundant rainfall. There are three distinct seasons:
- Tag-init or Tag-araw (Dry Season) – This season runs from March to May where temperatures can soar above 35°C.
- Tag-ulan (Rainy Season) – From June to November, the country faces heavy rainfall due to the southwest monsoon.
- Tag-lamig (Cooler Season) – December to February is cooler compared to other months, with temperatures dropping to around 22°C in some areas.
The Philippines is also prone to tropical cyclones and typhoons, particularly during the rainy season. Its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire makes it susceptible to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions as well.
Brief history of Philippines
The Philippines has a rich history that spans centuries. Initially inhabited by Austronesian peoples, it was later influenced by trade with China and other Asian empires. In 1521, the explorer Ferdinand Magellan claimed the islands for Spain, marking the beginning of over three centuries of Spanish colonization. During this time, Christianity was introduced, and Manila became an important hub for the trans-Pacific trade.
In 1898, following the Spanish-American War, Spain ceded the Philippines to the United States. The Filipinos, who had already been fighting for independence, continued their struggle against American rule until 1946, when the Philippines finally gained sovereignty after a period of Japanese occupation during World War II.
Since independence, the Philippines has faced challenges including dictatorship under Ferdinand Marcos, People Power Revolution in 1986, and ongoing conflicts involving communist insurgents and Islamist militants. Today, it is a democratic republic with a vibrant culture and growing economy.
Religion of Philippines
The predominant religion in the Philippines is Christianity, with Roman Catholicism being the largest denomination. Approximately 80% of Filipinos identify as Roman Catholic, a legacy of over three centuries of Spanish colonial rule. The country is known for its fervent religious practices and celebrations, such as the annual Sinulog Festival and the Feast of the Black Nazarene.
A minority of the population adheres to Islam, primarily in the southern region of Mindanao, where there is a significant Muslim community. Indigenous religions and animistic beliefs are practiced by some indigenous groups in remote areas, although these are a small percentage of the population.
Language of Philippines
The Philippines is a linguistically diverse country with more than 170 languages spoken. The official languages are Filipino and English.
- Filipino is based on Tagalog, which is the most widely spoken language in the country, particularly in the central part of Luzon, including the capital region of Metro Manila.
- English is widely used and is the medium of instruction in higher education and government. It is also the language commonly used for business and legal transactions.
Apart from these, there are several regional languages and dialects spoken across the archipelago. Some of the major ones include Cebuano, Ilocano, Hiligaynon (Ilonggo), Bicolano, Waray, Kapampangan, and Pangasinense.
Places to visit in Philippines
- Manila
- Cebu City
- Davao City
- Baguio City
- Vigan
- Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park
- Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park
- Hundred Islands National Park
- Banaue Rice Terraces
- Mount Pulag National Park
Before you visit Philippines
Travel to Philippines
By Air
The most common and convenient way to reach the Philippines is by air. The country has several international airports, with Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila being the primary gateway. Other major international airports include:
- Mactan-Cebu International Airport in Cebu
- Clark International Airport in Pampanga
- Francisco Bangoy International Airport in Davao
Major airlines from around the world operate flights to these airports.
By Sea
Traveling to the Philippines by sea is less common but possible through international cruise lines or private vessels. The country has a number of seaports that can accommodate passenger ships, with the Port of Manila being the largest.
Overland
Due to its archipelagic nature, there are no land borders to cross into the Philippines. All travelers must arrive by air or sea.
Visas for Philippines
The Philippines offers several types of visas for foreign visitors, and the requirements vary depending on the traveler’s nationality, purpose of visit, and intended length of stay. Here are some general guidelines:
Visa-Free Entry
Many nationalities can enter the Philippines without a visa for a period ranging from 14 to 59 days, depending on the country of origin. Travelers must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay and a return or onward ticket.
Tourist Visa
For those who wish to stay longer than the visa-free period, a tourist visa can be obtained from Philippine embassies or consulates before traveling. This visa is typically valid for 59 days but can be extended while in the Philippines.
Long-Stay Visas
There are also options for long-stay visas, such as the Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV) for retirees and the 9(g) visa for foreign nationals employed in the Philippines.
Other Visas
Other types of visas include business visas, student visas, and diplomatic visas, each with specific application requirements and conditions.
It’s important to check the most current visa information with the nearest Philippine embassy or consulate as policies can change.
Best time to visit Philippines
The best time to visit the Philippines is during the dry season, which typically runs from December to February. During these months, the weather is cooler and less humid, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the islands. Here’s what you can expect:
- December to February: This is the peak tourist season due to the pleasant weather. It’s perfect for beach trips, diving, and sightseeing.
- March to May: These are the hottest months, known as the summer season in the Philippines. While it’s still a good time for beach-goers, the heat can be intense, especially in urban areas.
It’s generally advisable to avoid the rainy season from June to November, as this period brings the risk of typhoons and heavy rains that can affect travel plans. However, some travelers prefer the lower prices and fewer crowds during this off-peak season.