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Philippines

Pilipinas

Capital:Manila
Population:114.0M
Currency:Philippines Peso (PHP)
Language:two official languages - Filipino (based on Tagalog) and English; eight major dialects - Tagalog, Cebuano, Ilocano, Hiligaynon or Ilonggo, Bicol, Waray, Pampango, and Pangasinense
Sunset over Manila Bay, Philippines

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Quick Look Factsheet

A multi-page overview of Philippines.

Philippines Factsheet

Customs and Culture

Cultural Attributes

Filipinos are sensitive people. Insincerity is easily detected and can ruin a relationship. Individualism is less important than the family. A family member often sacrifices personal goals or desires to help the family or another family member. Filipinos generally have a more relaxed view of time and may not always begin meetings or appointments promptly. Gratitude and saving face are paramount to Filipinos. Fatalism is a common attitude. Success may also be attributed to fate rather than ability or effort.

Unlike other Asian countries where women tend to be more subservient, women in the Philippines have had high societal positions since pre-colonial times. Since sexual equality exists, businesses are more accepting of women performing business. This attitude is apparent with the current Philippine president. President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo is the second woman to hold this esteemed position. Corazon Aquino was the first female president and held the position from 1986-1992).

Filipinos are simple people who are content with having enough money to put food on the table. They strive to earn only as much as they need. This is called “isang kahig, isang tuka,” which means working and spending all of the money that you earn and not being able to save some for an emergency or the future.

Sunset over Manila Bay, Philippines

Island of a Thousand Smiles

Get More Customs and Culture

6 more cultural topics for members

Social Customs & Etiquette · Diet · Family · Dating Customs · Recreation · Student Life

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Holidays

  • Independence Day

    6/12

    Independence Day

    note: 12 June 1898 was the date of independence from Spain; 4 July 1946 was the date of independence from the US

  • Christmas

    12/25

    Christmas

    The Philippines have celebrated Christmas since the sixteenth century when the Philippines were a Spanish Colony. The holiday begins with the Feast of the Immaculate Conception on December 8th followed by the nine-day Novena of Misas del Gallo (Masses of the Rooster), a series of pre-dawn masses beginning on December 16th. In Tagalog the masses are knows as Simbang Gabi (Night Mass).

    Christmas decorations include Santa Claus, Christmas Trees, wreaths, candles, colored lights, Christmas cards and the Parol (a symbolic five pointed star of Bethlehem, with tassels at each point and affixed to bamboo poles covered with colored rice paper.).

    During the days before Christmas, villages sponsor lantern festivals. These festivals originated from the parol parades of the nineteenth century.

    Midnight Mass is celebrated on Christmas Eve after which families return home for a meal of stuffed chicken or fish, stuffed rolls, noodles, rice pudding with ground coconut, ginger tea, rice cakes and fruit.

    Although children hang up stockings for Santa Claus the principal gift giver is lola (grandmother) who distributes presents either on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.

Dates of Interest

  • December 30th

    Observed on November 1st and 2nd respectively, these days are dedicated to honoring deceased loved ones with visits to cemeteries and the offering of prayers and flowers.

How do people greet each other in the Philippines?

Normal English greetings are acceptable in urban areas, but it is warmer to greet in Tagalog or the local dialect, as most Filipinos are bilingual.

Do

  • Use time-based greetings like Magandang umaga (good morning), Magandang tanghali (good afternoon), or Magandang gabi (good evening)
  • Add "po" when speaking to someone older, e.g., Magandang Umaga Po
  • Women may hug or kiss on the cheek ("beso") when greeting hello or goodbye
  • Use "mano" to recognize an elder: momentarily place your forehead on the back of an older person's hand, saying "mano po"

Don’t

  • Don't call someone over by saying "psst" or "hoy" — it's considered rude

Good to know

  • Address older people as lola (grandma) or lolo (grandpa), and strangers as manang (older woman) or manong (older man)
  • Komusta is a common greeting for acquaintances and friends

What are the dining customs in the Philippines?

Meals are casual and conversation is relaxed; rice is the staple, usually served with a "viand" of meat or fish, vegetables, and sauces.

Do

  • Eat heartily to compliment the meal
  • Leave a small portion on your plate to show you've had enough

Good to know

  • Common sauces include fish sauce (patis), soy sauce (toyo), and vinegar (suka)
  • Meals are 3-4 times a day: breakfast (8-10 AM), lunch (12-2 PM), merienda (3-4 PM), and dinner (6-9 PM)
  • Merienda often includes kakanin (sticky-rice desserts) or light snacks like rice porridge or pansit

What etiquette should I know when visiting a Filipino home?

Hospitality is important; guests are made to feel at ease and should be tactful, sincere, and respectful of family honor.

Do

  • Remove your shoes when entering someone's home
  • Say "thank you" when leaving
  • Be sincere — insincerity is easily detected

Don’t

  • Don't use the word "hostess" when referring to the woman of the house
  • Avoid criticism, arguing, and public criticism
  • Don't be insincere, as it can ruin a relationship

Good to know

  • Saving face and personal and family honor are very important
  • Filipinos have a relaxed view of time and may not start meetings promptly

What should I wear in the Philippines?

Clothing largely follows Western standards, with traditional dress reserved for special occasions.

Do

  • Women commonly wear Western-style dresses or wraparound skirts with blouses

Good to know

  • Traditional clothing includes the Barong Tagalog for men and the baro't saya for women, worn on special occasions
  • At home, people wear "pambahay" clothes, such as a loose bestida for women or shorts and a shirt/sando for men, with tsinelas (flip flops)
  • For a night out ("gimik"), people wear whatever is currently in style

What gestures are important in the Philippines?

Filipinos use many hand and facial gestures and value speaking politely with a gentle tone.

Do

  • Beckon by waving all fingers with the palm facing down
  • Point to objects by shifting your eyes or pursing your lips, not with your hands
  • Recognize an elder's presence with the "mano" gesture ("mano po")

Don’t

  • Don't argue or criticize in public

Good to know

  • Filipinos often greet with an "eyebrow" flash — quickly lifting the eyebrows

What is family life like in the Philippines?

Family ties are central and often influence many aspects of life; families are typically large with four or more children.

Good to know

  • Family members feel free to call on one another for financial assistance, with borrowers expected to help others later
  • Individualism is less important than the family, and members may sacrifice personal goals to help relatives
  • Women generally enjoy equality with men, professionally and otherwise

What do people do for recreation in the Philippines?

Filipinos enjoy games and social peer groups; teenagers form close friendship clubs called barkadas.

Good to know

  • Popular games include mahjongg, chess, checkers, dama, and dominos, often played on street corners
  • Kali is a martial art indigenous to the Philippines, using weapons like sticks and knives
  • Children play traditional games such as sipa, patintero, luksong tinik, piko, and bahay-bahayan
  • You may be asked to join group singing sessions when entertained during business times

Last updated: 2026-07-12 · Sources: CountryReports

Photos of Philippines

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Travel and Tourism

Travel Alert Status
Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
Currency
Philippine peso (PHP)
Time Difference
UTC+8 (13 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Climate
The Philippines has a tropical climate, but it is marginally less hot and humid than many tropical countries for most of the year. Although the sun shines almost year round, there are slight seasonal variations in the weather. The dry summer season, which runs from about late April to early June is hot and humid and with little rainfall. The typhoon season runs from June to September, with frequent drenching rains that can temper the heat somewhat but also preclude any outdoor activities. The downpours are often limited in duration, but the resulting flash floods can create chaos by blocking streets, stranding motorists, and bringing the already congested traffic of Manila to a virtual standstill. The most pleasant season follows the rainy season, from November until March. During this time of year, mornings can be fresh, and even the midday temperatures remain bearable, with frequent breezes that temper the heat. The temperature range in Manila is relatively narrow, with minimum temperatures in the mid-70s and highs in the mid-90s, and an annual mean of about 80°F. Average relative humidity ranges from 69% in April to 84% in August or September. Baguio, the original summer capital of the Philippines, is located 155 miles north of Manila at an altitude of about 5,000 feet. The climate varies between the dry and the very wet season, each lasting about six months. The dry season runs from December to May, with temperatures ranging from the 50s and 60s at night to highs in the mid-80s during the day. Baguio averages 176 inches of rainfall a year, about half of which falls in July and August alone. The rains begin tapering off in September and are light in October and November.
Airports
253
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Recipes

Featured Dish

Spicy Rice

Side Dish

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History

Historical Eras

  1. Pre-Colonial Era

    5000 BCE – 1565

    Successive waves of Austronesian and Malay migrants settled the archipelago from around 5000 BCE, displacing earlier Negrito inhabitants. By the first millennium CE, thriving barangay communities engaged in trade with China, India, and the Malay world. The arrival of Islam in the south by the 14th century established the Sultanates of Sulu and Maguindanao before any European contact.

  2. Spanish Colonial Period

    1565 – 1898

    Ferdinand Magellan's 1521 landing preceded formal colonization, which began when Miguel López de Legazpi established the first permanent Spanish settlement in 1565, naming the islands for King Philip II. Spain imposed Catholicism, the encomienda system, and centralized rule from Manila, profoundly reshaping culture, religion, and land tenure. Growing nationalism culminated in the 1896 revolution led by Andrés Bonifacio and José Rizal's reformist writings.

  3. American Colonial Period

    1898 – 1946

    Spain ceded the Philippines to the United States following the Spanish-American War, crushing Emilio Aguinaldo's independence movement in a brutal Philippine-American War that ended in 1902. The U.S. introduced public education, representative institutions, and a path toward self-rule, culminating in the Commonwealth of the Philippines in 1935 under President Manuel Quezon. Japanese occupation from 1941 to 1945 inflicted enormous civilian suffering before U.S. forces liberated the islands.

  4. Early Independence

    1946 – 1965

    Full independence was granted on July 4, 1946, establishing a republic with democratic institutions modeled on American governance, including a two-party system, independent judiciary, and free press. The Huk Rebellion, a communist-led agrarian uprising, was suppressed under President Ramon Magsaysay in the early 1950s. Despite political stability, power remained concentrated among a landed elite, and meaningful land reform was largely blocked.

  5. Marcos Era

    1965 – 1986

    Ferdinand Marcos was elected president in 1965 and, seeking to extend his rule, declared martial law in September 1972, dismantling democratic institutions and ruling by decree. Corruption, economic stagnation, and military brutality fueled communist and Muslim insurgencies across the archipelago. The 1983 assassination of opposition leader Benigno Aquino galvanized mass opposition, and a popular uprising in February 1986 forced Marcos into exile, bringing Corazon Aquino to power.

  6. Democratic Restoration

    1986 – present

    Corazon Aquino's presidency restored constitutional democracy and dismantled the structures of martial law, though coup attempts and persistent insurgencies tested the fragile state. Subsequent presidents including Fidel Ramos, Joseph Estrada—removed by the Supreme Court in 2001—and Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo navigated economic reform, regional Muslim separatism in Mindanao, and recurring political turbulence. The era has been defined by ongoing efforts to strengthen democratic institutions against entrenched elite power and corruption.

Overview

Architecture of this church from the Spanish colonial period

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Timeline of Key Events

  1. 5000 BCE – 3000 BCE

    The "New Stone Age"

    Sea faring Malays from what is today Indonesia come to the archipelago. These new settlers bring with them polished stone tools, boat building, bark and animal skin cloth making, pottery, rice planting, the process of cooking food in bamboo tubes, the techniques of making fire by rubbing two sticks together. The Negritos begin to move out of caves and settle in a scattered manner along the coasts and rivers.

  2. 5000 BCE

    Second wave of Malay immigrants

    Second wave of Malay immigrants arrives in the Philippines by sea.

  3. 2500 BCE

    Ancient Negroid people immigrate to the Philippines

    Ancient Negroid people immigrate to the Philippines over a land bridge then still connecting the archipelago with the Asian mainland.

  4. 200 BCE

    Malays in large numbers migrate to the Philippines

    Malays in large numbers migrate to the Philippines. They are the racial stock of the majority of today’s Philippine populace.

  5. 1521

    Ferdinand Magellan discovered the Philippine Islands

    Ferdinand Magellan discovered the Philippine Islands and names them: Archipelago of San Lazaro, where he was killed by natives the following month.

  6. 1542

    Spanish expedition

    Commandeered by Ruy Lopez de Villalobos claims the islands for Spain and names them “Philippines” after Prince Philip; later King Philip II of Spain. The Philippines becomes part of Spanish Empire.

  7. 1898

    Emilio Aguinaldo declares the Philippines independent

    The US navy destroys the Spanish fleet in Manila Bay. Spain cedes the Philippines to the US under the Treaty of Paris in December, Philippines rebel leader Emilio Aguinaldo declares the Philippines independent on June 12, which will be recognized in the future as the Philippines’ Independence Day.

View full timeline (21 events)
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Interesting Facts

  • When a child loses a tooth they hide their tooth in a special place and make a wish. A year later, if they can still find the tooth, they can make another wish.

  • The deepest spot in the ocean is the Mariana Trench. It is 36,202 feet deep.

  • The Philippines was named after the Spanish crown prince Philip, later Philip II.

  • The white, star-shaped sampaguita flower, often sold by street vendors or wound into necklaces given to visitors, is the Philippines' national flower.

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Geography and Environment

The Philippines is composed of 7,107 separate islands (7,106 during high tide), only 880 of which are inhabited. The three major geographical areas in the Philippines are the large island of Luzon in the north, which includes Manila; the large island of Mindanao in the south; and the group of islands lying between them, known as the Visayas. The three stars on the Philippine flag symbolize these three areas.
Terrain
mostly mountains with narrow to extensive coastal lowlands
Climate
The Philippines has a tropical climate, but it is marginally less hot and humid than many tropical countries for most of the year. Although the sun shines almost year round, there are slight seasonal variations in the weather. The dry summer season, which runs from about late April to early June is hot and humid and with little rainfall. The typhoon season runs from June to September, with frequent drenching rains that can temper the heat somewhat but also preclude any outdoor activities. The downpours are often limited in duration, but the resulting flash floods can create chaos by blocking streets, stranding motorists, and bringing the already congested traffic of Manila to a virtual standstill. The most pleasant season follows the rainy season, from November until March. During this time of year, mornings can be fresh, and even the midday temperatures remain bearable, with frequent breezes that temper the heat. The temperature range in Manila is relatively narrow, with minimum temperatures in the mid-70s and highs in the mid-90s, and an annual mean of about 80°F. Average relative humidity ranges from 69% in April to 84% in August or September. Baguio, the original summer capital of the Philippines, is located 155 miles north of Manila at an altitude of about 5,000 feet. The climate varies between the dry and the very wet season, each lasting about six months. The dry season runs from December to May, with temperatures ranging from the 50s and 60s at night to highs in the mid-80s during the day. Baguio averages 176 inches of rainfall a year, about half of which falls in July and August alone. The rains begin tapering off in September and are light in October and November.
Natural Hazards
astride typhoon belt, usually affected by 15 and struck by five to six cyclonic storms per year; landslides; active volcanoes; destructive earthquakes; tsunamis
Current Environmental Issues
uncontrolled deforestation especially in watershed areas; soil erosion; air and water pollution in major urban centers; coral reef degradation; increasing pollution of coastal mangrove swamps that are important fish breeding grounds
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People & Demographics

Religion

Languages Spoken

two official languages - Filipino (based on Tagalog) and English; eight major dialects - Tagalog, Cebuano, Ilocano, Hiligaynon or Ilonggo, Bicol, Waray, Pampango, and Pangasinense

  • Filipino
  • Tagalog

Population

Population
113,964,000
Population in Major Urban Areas
MANILA (capital) 11.862 million; Davao 1.565 million; Cebu City 855,000; Zamboanga 884,000
Nationality Noun
Filipino(s)
Ethnic Groups
Christian Malay 91.5%, Muslim Malay 4%, Chinese 1.5%, other 3%
Language Note
There are two official languages in the Philippines, Pilipino and English. English is used for business, government, and education from the fourth grade through college. Pilipino, which is based mostly on Tagalog, which is the language spoken in central Luzon. Pilipino is referred to as Tagalog by most people.

Education

Literacy Definition
age 15 and over can read and write

Except for schools in remote, mountainous areas, the Philippines has essential resources such as books, paper, and desks. Some of the modern equipment is either donated by the government or by foreign-assisted programs. Private schools have much better facilities than public schools. Problems in the schools include a lack of updated technology and a lack of teacher training. Some teachers are not motivated because their salaries are at the poverty level. The most severe problem is the lack of classrooms. Some classes are held under the trees, or the classes are so full that children are sitting on floors.

Health Information

Life Expectancy at Birth
Life expectancy at birth in the Philippines has shown notable improvement over recent decades, reflecting broader advances in public health infrastructure, disease control, and access to medical care. As of the most recent available data, the average life expectancy at birth in the Philippines stands at approximately 71 years overall, with women typically living longer than men. Filipino women can expect to live to around 74 to 75 years, while Filipino men have an average life expectancy closer to 68 to 69 years. This gender gap in life expectancy is consistent with global patterns and is attributed to a combination of biological factors and behavioral differences, including higher rates of smoking, alcohol consumption, and occupational hazards among men. The Philippines has made meaningful strides in reducing infant and child mortality, which directly contributes to improvements in overall life expectancy figures. Government initiatives such as the Universal Health Care Act, signed into law in 2019, aim to expand health coverage to all Filipino citizens, which is expected to continue driving life expectancy upward in coming years. The COVID-19 pandemic, however, had a measurable negative impact on life expectancy in the early 2020s, a trend observed across much of the world, and the Philippines has been gradually recovering toward its pre-pandemic trajectory. Despite these gains, the country still faces significant public health challenges that can limit longevity. Non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetes are among the leading causes of death. The Philippines also contends with a high burden of infectious diseases, including tuberculosis, which remains prevalent compared to many other countries in the region. Respiratory illnesses, partly linked to air quality issues in densely populated urban centers like Metro Manila, also pose ongoing concerns. Socioeconomic disparities play a considerable role in health outcomes across the archipelago. Rural and remote communities, particularly in regions like the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region and isolated island provinces, often have limited access to healthcare facilities, trained medical professionals, and essential medicines, which can result in lower life expectancy compared to more urbanized areas. When compared regionally, the Philippines falls slightly below the life expectancy averages of neighboring countries such as Thailand and Vietnam, both of which have recorded averages above 74 to 75 years in recent estimates. Nevertheless, the Philippines continues on a generally positive long-term trajectory as investments in healthcare, sanitation, and disease prevention expand across the country.
Major Infectious Diseases — degree of risk
high
Infant Mortality Rate
The infant mortality rate in the Philippines reflects the country's ongoing efforts to improve maternal and child health within a developing economy context. As of recent data, the Philippines records approximately 22 to 24 infant deaths per 1,000 live births, a figure that represents significant improvement over past decades but still remains notably higher than the rates seen in more economically developed nations in Southeast Asia, such as Singapore and Malaysia. Infant mortality in the Philippines is closely tied to geographic and socioeconomic disparities. Rural areas, remote island communities, and regions such as the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao tend to experience considerably higher rates of infant death compared to urban centers like Metro Manila and Cebu City. Limited access to skilled birth attendants, inadequate prenatal care, and shortages of well-equipped health facilities contribute to elevated risk in these underserved areas. The leading causes of infant mortality in the country include pneumonia, diarrheal diseases, birth asphyxia, prematurity, and neonatal infections. Malnutrition also plays a compounding role, weakening infant immune systems and reducing resilience against common illnesses. The Philippines has one of the higher rates of childhood stunting in Southeast Asia, which is interconnected with broader infant and child health outcomes. The Philippine government, in partnership with international organizations such as UNICEF and the World Health Organization, has implemented programs targeting neonatal care, immunization coverage, and community-based health services. The Universal Health Care Act of 2019 was a landmark legislative step aimed at expanding access to essential health services for all Filipinos, including maternal and infant care. While the overall infant mortality rate has declined steadily since the 1990s — dropping from over 50 deaths per 1,000 live births to current levels — achieving further reductions will require sustained investment in rural health infrastructure, midwifery training, and public health education campaigns targeting young mothers and families in vulnerable communities.

Life Expectancy

Life Expectancy at Birth
Life expectancy at birth in the Philippines has shown notable improvement over recent decades, reflecting broader advances in public health infrastructure, disease control, and access to medical care. As of the most recent available data, the average life expectancy at birth in the Philippines stands at approximately 71 years overall, with women typically living longer than men. Filipino women can expect to live to around 74 to 75 years, while Filipino men have an average life expectancy closer to 68 to 69 years. This gender gap in life expectancy is consistent with global patterns and is attributed to a combination of biological factors and behavioral differences, including higher rates of smoking, alcohol consumption, and occupational hazards among men. The Philippines has made meaningful strides in reducing infant and child mortality, which directly contributes to improvements in overall life expectancy figures. Government initiatives such as the Universal Health Care Act, signed into law in 2019, aim to expand health coverage to all Filipino citizens, which is expected to continue driving life expectancy upward in coming years. The COVID-19 pandemic, however, had a measurable negative impact on life expectancy in the early 2020s, a trend observed across much of the world, and the Philippines has been gradually recovering toward its pre-pandemic trajectory. Despite these gains, the country still faces significant public health challenges that can limit longevity. Non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetes are among the leading causes of death. The Philippines also contends with a high burden of infectious diseases, including tuberculosis, which remains prevalent compared to many other countries in the region. Respiratory illnesses, partly linked to air quality issues in densely populated urban centers like Metro Manila, also pose ongoing concerns. Socioeconomic disparities play a considerable role in health outcomes across the archipelago. Rural and remote communities, particularly in regions like the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region and isolated island provinces, often have limited access to healthcare facilities, trained medical professionals, and essential medicines, which can result in lower life expectancy compared to more urbanized areas. When compared regionally, the Philippines falls slightly below the life expectancy averages of neighboring countries such as Thailand and Vietnam, both of which have recorded averages above 74 to 75 years in recent estimates. Nevertheless, the Philippines continues on a generally positive long-term trajectory as investments in healthcare, sanitation, and disease prevention expand across the country.
Infant Mortality Rate
The infant mortality rate in the Philippines reflects the country's ongoing efforts to improve maternal and child health within a developing economy context. As of recent data, the Philippines records approximately 22 to 24 infant deaths per 1,000 live births, a figure that represents significant improvement over past decades but still remains notably higher than the rates seen in more economically developed nations in Southeast Asia, such as Singapore and Malaysia. Infant mortality in the Philippines is closely tied to geographic and socioeconomic disparities. Rural areas, remote island communities, and regions such as the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao tend to experience considerably higher rates of infant death compared to urban centers like Metro Manila and Cebu City. Limited access to skilled birth attendants, inadequate prenatal care, and shortages of well-equipped health facilities contribute to elevated risk in these underserved areas. The leading causes of infant mortality in the country include pneumonia, diarrheal diseases, birth asphyxia, prematurity, and neonatal infections. Malnutrition also plays a compounding role, weakening infant immune systems and reducing resilience against common illnesses. The Philippines has one of the higher rates of childhood stunting in Southeast Asia, which is interconnected with broader infant and child health outcomes. The Philippine government, in partnership with international organizations such as UNICEF and the World Health Organization, has implemented programs targeting neonatal care, immunization coverage, and community-based health services. The Universal Health Care Act of 2019 was a landmark legislative step aimed at expanding access to essential health services for all Filipinos, including maternal and infant care. While the overall infant mortality rate has declined steadily since the 1990s — dropping from over 50 deaths per 1,000 live births to current levels — achieving further reductions will require sustained investment in rural health infrastructure, midwifery training, and public health education campaigns targeting young mothers and families in vulnerable communities.
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Government & Politics

Country Identity

Country Name
Philippines
Full Country Name
Republic of the Philippines
Local - Long
Republika ng Pilipinas
Local - Short
Pilipinas

Government Structure

Government Type
republic
Legal System
based on Spanish and Anglo-American law; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations
Executive Branch
chief of state: President Ferdinand MARCOS Jr. (since 30 June 2022); note - president is both chief of state and head of government head of government: President Ferdinand MARCOS Jr. (since 30 June 2022); note - president is both chief of state and head of government cabinet: Cabinet appointed by the president with the consent of the Commission of Appointments elections: president and vice president elected on separate tickets by popular vote for six-year terms; election last held 9 May 2022 (next to be held in May 2028) election results: results of the election - Ferdinand MARCOS Jr. elected president; percent of vote - Ferdinand MARCOS Jr. 58.7%, Leni ROBREDO 27.9%, Manny PACQUIAO 6.8%, others 6.6%; Sara DUTERTE-Carpio elected vice president with approximately 61.5% of the vote
Legislative Branch
Bicameral Congress or Kongreso consists of the Senate or Senado (24 seats; members elected at large by popular vote to serve six-year terms, with one-half of the Senate elected every three years) and the House of Representatives or Kapulungan ng mga Kinatawan (304 seats; 253 members representing single-member districts and 63 sectoral party-list members elected by proportional representation; members serve three-year terms; the Constitution caps total membership at 360 seats). Elections: Senate - last held on 9 May 2022 (next to be held in May 2025); House of Representatives - last held on 9 May 2022 (next to be held in May 2025). Election results: Senate - seats by party following the 2022 elections - PFP 5, NPC 3, NP 3, Lakas-CMD 2, PDP-Laban 1, others and independents 10; House of Representatives - seats by party - Lakas-CMD 84, NPC 41, NUP 36, NP 32, PFP 22, HNP 12, others and independents 89; party-list seats 63.
Judicial Branch
Supreme Court (15 justices are appointed by the president on the recommendation of the Judicial and Bar Council and serve until 70 years of age); Court of Appeals; Sandigan-bayan (special court for hearing corruption cases of government officials)
Suffrage
18 years of age; universal
Constitution
2 February 1987, effective 11 February 1987
Independence
12 June 1898 (from Spain)
National Holiday
Independence Day, 12 June (1898)

Capital City

Capital Name
Manila
Capital - geographic coordinate
14 36 N, 120 58 E
Capital Time Difference
UTC+8 (13 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)

derives from the Tagalog "may-nila" meaning "where there is indigo" and refers to the presence of indigo-yielding plants growing in the area surrounding the original settlement

Military

Branches: Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP): Army, Navy (includes Marine Corps), Air Force

Embassy / Diplomatic Mission

The U.S. EmbassyManila

1201 Roxas Boulevard

Manila, Philippines

Email:acsinfomanila@state.gov

Telephone (63) (2) 301-2000

Facsimile: (63) (2) 301-2017

There is a Consular Agency in Cebu City, which provides limited services to U.S. citizens, but it is not authorized to issue passports or visas. If you are requesting service at the Consular Agency, you should call ahead to verify that the service requested will be available on the day you expect to visit the Agency.

U.S. Consular Agency

Ground Level, Waterfront Hotel

Salinas Drive

Lahug, Cebu City

Philippines 6000

Email: amconsularcebu@ bayandsl.com

Telephone: (63)(32) 231-1261

Facsimile: (63)(32) 231-0174

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Economy

The Philippines has one of the most dynamic economies in the Asia-Pacific region, supported by strong domestic consumption, a large and growing services sector, and substantial remittances from overseas Filipino workers, which exceeded $38 billion in 2024 and remain a…

Snapshot

Currency Name and Code
Philippines Peso (PHP)
GDP — official exchange rate
$91,360,000,000 (USD)
GDP Real Growth Rate
6.4%
Gini Index
46.6
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News & Weather

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Climate Overview

The Philippines has a tropical climate, but it is marginally less hot and humid than many tropical countries for most of the year. Although the sun shines almost year round, there are slight seasonal variations in the weather. The dry summer season, which runs from about late April to early June is hot and humid and with little rainfall. The typhoon season runs from June to September, with frequent drenching rains that can temper the heat somewhat but also preclude any outdoor activities. The downpours are often limited in duration, but the resulting flash floods can create chaos by blocking streets, stranding motorists, and bringing the already congested traffic of Manila to a virtual standstill. The most pleasant season follows the rainy season, from November until March. During this time of year, mornings can be fresh, and even the midday temperatures remain bearable, with frequent breezes that temper the heat.

The temperature range in Manila is relatively narrow, with minimum temperatures in the mid-70s and highs in the mid-90s, and an annual mean of about 80°F. Average relative humidity ranges from 69% in April to 84% in August or September.

Baguio, the original summer capital of the Philippines, is located 155 miles north of Manila at an altitude of about 5,000 feet. The climate varies between the dry and the very wet season, each lasting about six months. The dry season runs from December to May, with temperatures ranging from the 50s and 60s at night to highs in the mid-80s during the day. Baguio averages 176 inches of rainfall a year, about half of which falls in July and August alone. The rains begin tapering off in September and are light in October and November.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the population of Philippines?
The population of Philippines is approximately 114.0M.
How do people greet each other in the Philippines?
Normal English greetings are acceptable in urban areas, but it is warmer to greet in Tagalog or the local dialect, as most Filipinos are bilingual. Do: Use time-based greetings like Magandang umaga (good morning), Magandang tanghali (good afternoon), or Magandang gabi (good evening) Add "po" when speaking to someone older, e.g., Magandang Umaga Po Women may hug or kiss on the cheek ("beso") when greeting hello or goodbye Use "mano" to recognize an elder: momentarily place your forehead on the back of an older person's hand, saying "mano po" Don't: Don't call someone over by saying "psst" or "hoy" — it's considered rude Address older people as lola (grandma) or lolo (grandpa), and strangers as manang (older woman) or manong (older man) Komusta is a common greeting for acquaintances and friends
What are the dining customs in the Philippines?
Meals are casual and conversation is relaxed; rice is the staple, usually served with a "viand" of meat or fish, vegetables, and sauces. Do: Eat heartily to compliment the meal Leave a small portion on your plate to show you've had enough Common sauces include fish sauce (patis), soy sauce (toyo), and vinegar (suka) Meals are 3-4 times a day: breakfast (8-10 AM), lunch (12-2 PM), merienda (3-4 PM), and dinner (6-9 PM) Merienda often includes kakanin (sticky-rice desserts) or light snacks like rice porridge or pansit
What etiquette should I know when visiting a Filipino home?
Hospitality is important; guests are made to feel at ease and should be tactful, sincere, and respectful of family honor. Do: Remove your shoes when entering someone's home Say "thank you" when leaving Be sincere — insincerity is easily detected Don't: Don't use the word "hostess" when referring to the woman of the house Avoid criticism, arguing, and public criticism Don't be insincere, as it can ruin a relationship Saving face and personal and family honor are very important Filipinos have a relaxed view of time and may not start meetings promptly
What should I wear in the Philippines?
Clothing largely follows Western standards, with traditional dress reserved for special occasions. Do: Women commonly wear Western-style dresses or wraparound skirts with blouses Traditional clothing includes the Barong Tagalog for men and the baro't saya for women, worn on special occasions At home, people wear "pambahay" clothes, such as a loose bestida for women or shorts and a shirt/sando for men, with tsinelas (flip flops) For a night out ("gimik"), people wear whatever is currently in style
What gestures are important in the Philippines?
Filipinos use many hand and facial gestures and value speaking politely with a gentle tone. Do: Beckon by waving all fingers with the palm facing down Point to objects by shifting your eyes or pursing your lips, not with your hands Recognize an elder's presence with the "mano" gesture ("mano po") Don't: Don't argue or criticize in public Filipinos often greet with an "eyebrow" flash — quickly lifting the eyebrows
What is family life like in the Philippines?
Family ties are central and often influence many aspects of life; families are typically large with four or more children. Family members feel free to call on one another for financial assistance, with borrowers expected to help others later Individualism is less important than the family, and members may sacrifice personal goals to help relatives Women generally enjoy equality with men, professionally and otherwise
What do people do for recreation in the Philippines?
Filipinos enjoy games and social peer groups; teenagers form close friendship clubs called barkadas. Popular games include mahjongg, chess, checkers, dama, and dominos, often played on street corners Kali is a martial art indigenous to the Philippines, using weapons like sticks and knives Children play traditional games such as sipa, patintero, luksong tinik, piko, and bahay-bahayan You may be asked to join group singing sessions when entertained during business times
What is the capital of the Philippines?
Manila is the capital of the Philippines and one of the most densely populated cities in the world. Situated on the island of Luzon along Manila Bay, it has served as the political, economic, and cultural center of the archipelago for centuries. The city was a major colonial hub under Spanish rule beginning in the 16th century and later under American administration following 1898. Today, Metro Manila — the broader metropolitan area — remains the seat of the national government and the country's primary commercial engine.
Where is the Philippines located?
The Philippines is an archipelago nation in Southeast Asia, situated in the western Pacific Ocean. It lies south of Taiwan, west of the Pacific Ocean's open waters, east of Vietnam across the South China Sea, and north of Indonesia and Malaysia. The country consists of more than 7,600 islands grouped into three main island regions: Luzon in the north, Visayas in the center, and Mindanao in the south. Its position along major maritime trade routes has historically made it a crossroads of Asian, Spanish, and American cultural influences.
What are the sea and ocean borders of the Philippines?
As an island nation, the Philippines shares no land borders with any country. It is bounded by the South China Sea to the west, the Philippine Sea to the east, the Celebes Sea to the south, and the Luzon Strait to the north. The country lies near the Mariana Trench — the deepest point in any ocean on Earth, reaching approximately 36,202 feet — underscoring the Philippines' position within one of the most geologically dynamic regions of the Pacific.
What is the predominant religion in the Philippines?
Roman Catholicism is by far the dominant religion in the Philippines, practiced by approximately 83% of the population — making it the largest predominantly Catholic country in Asia. This reflects nearly 350 years of Spanish colonial rule, during which the Church became deeply embedded in Filipino society, governance, and culture. Protestantism accounts for roughly 9% of adherents, while Islam, concentrated primarily in the Mindanao region and the Sulu Archipelago in the south, represents approximately 5% — a community whose political and cultural autonomy has been a long-standing source of tension and negotiation with the central government.
What is the currency of the Philippines?
The official currency of the Philippines is the Philippine Peso, with the ISO code PHP. The peso is subdivided into 100 centavos and is issued by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, the country's central bank. The economy is significantly supported by remittances from overseas Filipino workers, which consistently rank among the largest sources of foreign currency inflows in Asia. The peso's value is subject to fluctuations tied to global commodity prices, regional trade dynamics, and the volume of overseas remittances.
What languages are spoken in the Philippines?
The Philippines has two official languages: Filipino, which is based on Tagalog, and English. English is widely used in government, education, business, and media, giving the Philippines one of the largest English-speaking populations in the world. Beyond the official languages, eight major regional dialects are recognized — including Cebuano, Ilocano, Hiligaynon (Ilonggo), Bicol, Waray, Pampango, and Pangasinense — reflecting the country's remarkable linguistic diversity across its many island groups.
What is the geography of the Philippines like?
The Philippines comprises more than 7,600 islands characterized by rugged, mountainous terrain, dense tropical rainforests, and an extensive coastline. The archipelago sits along the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it prone to earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and typhoons. Notable geographic features include the active Mayon Volcano on Luzon, the Chocolate Hills of Bohol, and the Tubbataha Reef Natural Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The country's interior highlands contrast sharply with its low-lying coastal plains, which concentrate most of the agricultural activity and population.
What is the Philippines known for?
The Philippines is known for its thriving business process outsourcing (BPO) industry, which capitalizes on the population's high English proficiency and has made the country a global leader in call-center and back-office services. Culturally, the Sinulog and Ati-Atihan festivals — vibrant street celebrations rooted in Catholic and indigenous traditions — draw international attention each year. Philippine cuisine, featuring dishes such as adobo, sinigang, and lechon, reflects Spanish, Malay, and Chinese culinary influences. The country was also named after the Spanish crown prince Philip, later Philip II, a legacy that speaks directly to its deep colonial historical roots.

Last reviewed 2026

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