The Philippines - Basic Facts PDF

The Philippines – Basic Facts 7. Region VI - Western Visayas Official Name: The Republic of the Philippines 8. Region VII - Central Visayas Location: Southeast Asia 9...

The Philippines – Basic Facts 7. Region VI - Western Visayas Official Name: The Republic of the Philippines 8. Region VII - Central Visayas Location: Southeast Asia 9. Region VIII - Eastern Visayas Number of Islands: 10. Region IX - Zamboanga Peninsula o Previously: 7,107 islands 11. Region X - Northern Mindanao o Current: 7,641 islands (as updated by NAMRIA in 2016). 12. Region XI - Davao Region Major Island Groups: Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. 13. Region XII - SOCCSKSARGEN (South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, General Santos) Geographical Surroundings 14. Region XIII - Caraga Region East: Pacific Ocean 15. National Capital Region (NCR) West: South China Sea 16. Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) South: Celebes Sea and Borneo 17. Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) North: Taiwan Government System Administrative Divisions of the Philippines The Philippines follows a republican form of government with power equally divided among three Regions: 17 branches: Provinces: 81 1. Executive Branch Cities: 146 o Composition: President, Vice President, Cabinet, executive departments, Municipalities: 1,489 independent agencies, boards, commissions, and committees. Regions of the Philippines o Function: Carries out and enforces laws. 1. Region I - Ilocos Region 2. Legislative Branch 2. Region II - Cagayan Valley o Composition: Congress (Senate and House of Representatives). 3. Region III - Central Luzon o Function: Enacts laws, approves or rejects Presidential appointments, and has the authority to declare war. 4. Region IVA - CALABARZON (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon) 3. Judiciary Branch 5. Region IVB - MIMAROPA (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, Palawan) o Composition: Supreme Court and lower courts. 6. Region V - Bicol Region  o Function: Interprets laws and resolves disputes involving legally enforceable rights. o 1898: The Philippines declared independence on June 12. Unwritten History (Pre-Spanish Era) American Era (1898–1946) The Philippines was a nameless archipelago with no unified nation or identity. 1. Transfer of Sovereignty: Early Filipinos lived simple lives influenced by neighboring Asian countries such as China, o December 10, 1898: The Treaty of Paris officially transferred control of the India, and Southeast Asia through bartering and trading. Philippines from Spain to the USA. Cultural Achievements: o Filipinos resisted American rule, leading to two years of warfare until President Emilio Aguinaldo's capture. o Writing system 2. Governance and Education: o Calendar o The USA introduced a democratic government. o Weights and measures o Hundreds of American teachers came to improve Philippine education, resulting in o Weaving and pottery-making rapid school population growth. Spanish Era (1521–1898) 3. Philippine Commonwealth: 1. Early Explorations: o November 15, 1935: The Commonwealth was inaugurated with Manuel L. Quezon o 1521: Ferdinand Magellan rediscovered the Philippines and claimed it for Spain. He as President and Sergio Osmeña as Vice President. was killed in the Battle of Mactan by Datu Lapu-Lapu. Japanese Occupation / World War II (1941–1945) o 1542–1546: Ruy Lopez de Villalobos named the country Las Islas Felipinas after 1. Japanese Invasion: Prince Felipe, later King Philip II. o December 8, 1941: Japan attacked the Philippines. 2. Colonial Developments: o The Filipino and American forces surrendered in May 1942. o 1565: Miguel Lopez de Legazpi established the first Spanish settlement in Cebu. o The Death March involved 76,000 Filipino and American soldiers. o 1571: Manila was founded as the political and economic center of the Philippines. 2. Restoration Efforts: o Roman Catholicism was introduced, converting most Filipinos. o 1944: General Douglas MacArthur landed in Leyte, marking the return of the o The Manila-Acapulco Galleon Trade boosted the economy. Philippine Commonwealth. o 1863: Public education became available. o Battles with retreating Japanese forces devastated Manila and crippled the 3. Philippine Revolution: economy. o Activists formed the Katipunan led by Andres Bonifacio. 3. End of Japanese Occupation: o The execution of Dr. Jose Rizal in 1896 sparked the revolution. o 1945: The Philippines regained freedom.  o 1946: Japanese General Tomoyuki Yamashita was convicted as a war criminal and o Port of Subic executed. o Port of Cagayan de Oro Modes of Transportation to the Philippines o Ilocos Cruise Port 1. Air Travel: Access through major international airports. 2. Sea Travel: Entry through seaports connecting to neighboring countries. Visa Requirements 1. No Visa Required: Nationals from specific countries may stay for up to 30 days, provided Major Gateways to the Philippines they have: Airports: o A valid passport (6 months beyond the intended stay). o Clark International Airport (CRK) - Pampanga o A return or onward ticket. o Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB) - Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu Examples: o Francisco Bangoy International Airport (DVO) - Davao City o Australia, Canada, Japan, Singapore, United States, United Kingdom, among others. o General Santos International Airport (GES) - General Santos 2. Special Entry: o Iloilo International Airport (ILO) - Cabatuan, Iloilo o Nationals with Hong Kong or Macau SAR passports: Stay up to 14 days. o Kalibo International Airport (KLO) - Kalibo, Aklan o Holders of Macau-Portuguese or Hong Kong British passports: Stay up to 7 days. o Laoag International Airport (LAO) - Laoag City, Ilocos Norte 3. Extended Stay for Brazilians and Israelis: Up to 59 days based on existing agreements. o Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) - Greater Manila Area o Bohol-Panglao International Airport (TAG) - Panglao, Bohol Philippine Passport Guidelines o Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS) - Palawan 1. General Information: o Subic Bay International Airport (SFS) - Greater Manila Area o The passport remains property of the Republic of the Philippines. o Zamboanga International Airport (ZAM) - Zamboanga City o Alterations, additions, or destruction render the passport invalid and are punishable by law. Seaports: o Passports used as collateral are automatically canceled. o Port of Manila 2. Application Process: o Port of Cebu o Online appointments are required. o Batangas International Port o Applicants must appear in person at the consular office.  o Ensure passports are valid for at least six months before booking flights. Proclamation No. 905 (1996) declared it the national gem. 3. Prohibited During Photo Capture: Largest pearl: “Pearl of Lao-Tzu” discovered in Palawan, weighing 14 pounds. o Jewelry (e.g., earrings, necklaces). Recent discovery: A 34kg giant clam pearl in Palawan. o Colored contact lenses. National Sport: Arnis 4. Claiming the Passport: Also known as Eskrima or Kali. o Provide the official receipt or an affidavit of loss if the receipt is missing. Declared through Republic Act 9850 (2009) by Pres. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. o Unclaimed passports after 180 days are canceled. National Motto: "Maka-Diyos, Maka-tao, Makakalikasan, at Makabansa" Types of Philippine Passports Represents Filipino values as per the Heraldic Code. 1. Regular Passport: For general citizens of the Philippines. National Anthem: Lupang Hinirang 2. Diplomatic Passport: For high-ranking officials (e.g., President, Vice Presidents, and Played during Philippine Independence on June 12, 1898. Senators). Lyrics adapted from Jose Palma's "Filipinas." 3. Official Passport: For government employees traveling for official duties. Translated into Filipino in 1943 under Pres. Jose P. Laurel. Official National Symbols National Flag: National Tree: Narra Republic Act 8491 requires worn-out flags to be solemnly burned to prevent desecration. Declared through Proclamation No. 652 (1934) by Gov. Gen. Frank Murphy. Cutting requires DENR approval due to its importance and premium status. Unofficial National Symbols National Flower: Sampaguita National Hero: Dr. Jose Rizal Jasminum Sambac, also known as Philippine or Arabian Jasmine. No formal proclamation, but venerated for his contribution to social transformation. Fragrant, white flowers often sold in garlands. National Dance: Tinikling / Cariñosa National Bird: Philippine Eagle Tinikling: Imitates bird movements. Declared through Proclamation No. 615 (1995) by Pres. Fidel V. Ramos. Cariñosa: A Spanish-inspired dance for courtship. Known for being monogamous; mates for life. National Leaf: Anahaw National Gem: Philippine Pearl Known as the round-leaf fountain palm (Saribus rotundifolius). National Fruit: Mango 2. February 25 - EDSA Revolution Anniversary Commonly used in desserts; also India's national fruit. 3. Black Saturday - No fixed date (Holy Week). National Fish: Bangus 4. August 21 - Ninoy Aquino Day Celebrated in the annual Bangus Festival every April. 5. November 1 - All Saints’ Day National Animal: Carabao 6. December 8 - Feast of the Immaculate Conception of Mary Valued for its strength and utility in agriculture across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. 7. December 31 - Last Day of the Year National Costume: The Importance of Tourism Baro’t Saya for women: A blouse and skirt combination. Tourism drives economic growth and development in the Philippines. Barong Tagalog for men: Lightweight, embroidered formal wear. A major contributor to national progress through international and domestic tourist activities. Philippine Holidays Definition of Tourists Regular Holidays Tourist (WTO Definition): 1. January 1 - New Year’s Day o A person who stays in a destination for more than one night but less than a year. 2. April 9 - Araw ng Kagitingan (Bataan Day) o Includes both domestic and international tourists. 3. Maundy Thursday - No fixed date (Holy Week). 4. Good Friday - No fixed date (Holy Week). Types of Tourism 5. May 1 - Labor Day 1. Domestic Tourism 6. June 12 - Philippine Independence Day Involves residents traveling only within the Philippines. 7. Last Monday of August - National Heroes’ Day Examples: 8. November 30 - Bonifacio Day o A resident of Metro Manila visiting Iloilo. 9. December 25 - Christmas Day 2. International Tourism 10. December 30 - Rizal Day Involves residents traveling to other countries. Special Non-Working Holidays 1. Chinese New Year - No fixed date. Types of Domestic Tourists in the Philippines ▪ Meetings and conferences 1. Local Tourists 4. Incentive Travelers o Often excursionists. o Business professionals rewarded with trips by companies for achievements. o Usually stay for less than 24 hours in a destination within their city or province. 5. Family Travelers 2. Inter-regional Tourists o Families traveling together for leisure or gatherings. o Travel from one region to another. 6. Senior Citizens 3. Intra-regional Tourists o Older travelers, often seeking leisure or historical destinations. o Travel from one province to another within the same region. 7. Clubs or Affinity Groups o Groups united by shared interests or values. Classifications of Travelers 8. Public Tour Groups 1. Group Travelers o Individuals traveling together but are not acquainted. o Travel in groups for convenience or necessity. o The guide’s challenge is to create a cohesive group experience for diverse participants. o Examples: ▪ Families Key Takeaways ▪ Corporate travelers Tourism is a cornerstone of the Philippine economy, with domestic and international tourism ▪ School and alumni groups contributing significantly. ▪ People with disabilities Understanding the types of tourists and traveler classifications helps in tailoring services to 2. Student Groups their specific needs. o Travel to destinations related to their curriculum. Excursionists, business travelers, student groups, and public tour groups form part of the vibrant tourism sector in the Philippines. o Popular destinations include zoos, museums, and historical sites. Overview of Metro Manila 3. Business Travelers Officially known as the National Capital Region (NCR). o Travel for business purposes such as: Capital city: Manila. ▪ Sales It serves as the educational, economic, social, political, and cultural hub of the Philippines. ▪ Research  It is the only region without a province in the country. o North: Central Luzon plains. o East: Sierra Madre Mountains. Cities and Municipality of Metro Manila o South: Laguna de Bay. 1. Caloocan City o West: Manila Bay. 2. Las Piñas City Geological Zones 3. Marikina City 1. Coastal Margin (including reclaimed areas). 4. Mandaluyong City 2. Guadalupe Plateau. 5. Malabon City 3. Marikina Valley. 6. Muntinlupa City 4. Laguna Lowlands. 7. Navotas City Flood-Prone Areas 8. Parañaque City Cities: Manila, Navotas, Malabon, Caloocan (parts), Pasig, Marikina. 9. Pasig City Municipality: Pateros and Taguig. 10. San Juan City 11. Taguig City Tourist Attractions in Metro Manila 12. Valenzuela City Key Sites 13. Pasay City Luneta/Rizal Park 14. Manila City Intramuros 15. Quezon City National Museum of the Philippines 16. Makati City Manila Ocean Park 17. Municipality of Pateros Manila Zoo Quiapo Church Geographical Features of Metro Manila Chinatown (Binondo) Located in southwestern Luzon, below Central Luzon. San Agustin Church Boundaries: Fort Santiago Cultural and Entertainment Hubs Notable venues: Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP). Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) Las Piñas Resorts World Manila Known for the Bamboo Organ, housed in St. Joseph Church. Okada Manila A blend of historical and modern attractions. Solaire Resort and Casino Pateros Star City Famous for Balut (fertilized duck egg) production. Balut sa Puti Festival celebrates its local delicacy. Unique City Highlights Manila Unique Festivals and Events Capital City: Cultural and historical hub with vibrant nightlife and iconic sites. Caracol Festival (Makati): Celebrates environmental protection. Must-see spots: National Museum, Malacañang Palace Museum, Rizal Park, Intramuros. Philippine International Pyromusical Competition (Pasay): International fireworks Ride the Jeepney for an authentic Filipino experience. showcase. Quezon City Luglugan Pancit Malabon Festival: Celebrates Malabon’s culinary heritage. Former capital (1948–1976). Notable spots: Quezon Memorial Circle, Art in Island Museum. Quick Tips for Visitors La Loma Lechon Festival celebrated annually. 1. Experience the diverse attractions in Manila, Taguig, and Quezon City. Taguig 2. Explore historical sites like Intramuros, Rizal Park, and San Agustin Church. Home to Bonifacio Global City (BGC) – a financial and lifestyle district. 3. Engage in the cultural festivals for a unique experience. Features: The Mind Museum, pocket parks, and high-end malls. 4. Don’t miss the culinary tours in Malabon and Pateros. San Juan Overview of CAR Historical city, site of the Battle of San Juan del Monte (1896). Established: July 15, 1987, through Executive Order No. 220 by President Corazon Aquino. Known for Greenhills Shopping Center, a hub for shopping and dining. Region Type: The only landlocked region in the Philippines. Pasay City Provinces: Hub for international events and tourism. 1. Abra  2. Apayao Known for its cool climate, earning it the title City of Pines. 3. Benguet Notable attractions: 4. Ifugao 1. Baguio Cathedral: Iconic structure with twin spires and a scenic view. 5. Kalinga 2. Mines View Park: Offers a breathtaking view of mountain ranges. 6. Mountain Province 3. Burnham Park: Perfect for boating, biking, and relaxation. Regional Center: Baguio City (Summer Capital of the Philippines). 4. Camp John Hay: Former American base with a golf course and luxury facilities. 5. The Mansion: A historic site that served as a residence for Filipino Presidents. Geographical Features Ifugao Located in North-Central Luzon, encompassing most of the Cordillera Central Mountain Famous for the Banaue Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the Eighth Wonder Range. of the World. Boundaries: Bulul: Wooden figures guarding rice crops. o North: Ilocos Norte and Cagayan. Batad Rice Terraces: Amphitheater-like terraces. o South: Pangasinan and Nueva Vizcaya. Festivals: Gotad ad Ifugao (June) showcasing traditional culture and wooden scooter races. o East: Cagayan Valley. Philippine War Memorial Shrine: Honors the role of Ifugao and American troops in WWII. o West: Ilocos Region. Mountain Province Known as the Watershed Cradle of North Luzon, hosting nine major rivers providing Known for the Hanging Coffins in Sagada. irrigation and energy. Sumaguing Cave: A popular spelunking site. Lang-ay Cultural Festival: Celebrates tribal culture. Cultural and Historical Highlights Benguet Home to the Igorot Tribes, a collective group of indigenous people known for their Nicknamed the Salad Bowl of the Philippines due to its vegetable production. industrious nature. Attractions: Rich culture influenced by its climate and rugged terrain, distinct from the lowland regions. o STOBOSA Mural: A community art project in La Trinidad. o Mount Pulag: Famous for its sea of clouds. Tourist Attractions o Strawberry farms and products like strawberry taho and jam. Baguio City Key National Parks in CAR Transportation Highlights 1. Cassamata Hill National Park Kennon Road: A zigzag road connecting Baguio to La Union, offering scenic views of Colorado Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. 2. Mount Pulag National Park 3. Mount Data National Park 4. Balbalasang-Balbalan National Park Indigenous Tribes of CAR 1. Abra: Tingguian or Itneg. 2. Apayao: Isnag (Isneg dialect). 3. Benguet: o Ibaloi (Southeast). o Kankanaey (Northwest). o Kalanguya (East). 4. Ifugao: Tuwali, Kayangan. 5. Mountain Province: Bontoc, Balangao. Notable Figures and Traditions Whang-Od Oggay: o Known as the "Last Mambabatok" (traditional Kalinga tattooist). o A part of the Butbut tribe in Kalinga. Canao Ritual: o A communal event involving sacrifices of pigs or carabaos, singing, and dancing with gongs.