The Philippine Islands are a cluster of more than 7,000 islands, lying north of the Malay Peninsula in Southeast Asia. From north to south, the archipelago extends over nearly 1150 miles. The Philippine Islands are of volcanic origin. There are more than 20 active volcanoes, and the nation regularly experiences earthquakes.

The total land area of the Philippines is about 186,000 square miles, and the largest city is its capital, Manila. The two largest islands are Luzon to the north, and Mindanao to the south, with a host of smaller islands, called the Visayas, in between, including some unnamed and uninhabited patches of land.

A large part of the terrain is mountainous; the volcanic eruptions in the area have given the Philippines fertile soils and spectacular landscapes and underwater areas. Unfortunately, deforestation and uninhibited harvesting of both flora and marine life have deprived the Philippines of its once rich and diverse resources.

The predominant ethnic groups on the islands are of Malayan origin, with some Chinese influence. There are also the Mestizos (Filipino-Spanish and Filipino-American) who are evidence of the long Spanish and American occupation of the country. Due to extensive proselytization by the Church during the Spanish era, the Philippines are the only Christian nation in Asia. The Filipinos are a very outgoing and friendly people, whose ethos is ruled by 'bayanihan' - a communal spirit which binds them together, and embraces all visitors to their country as well.

The climate is mostly hot and humid - averaging at about 80 degrees with humidity of 77%. The best season to visit is during the months of November to March - which is the dry season. The months of May to October are very hot and humid.

The fertile lowlands of the islands provide crops of rice, coconuts, corn, sugarcane, bananas, pineapples and mangoes. Pork, eggs, beef and an abundant supply of fish are also produced. Industries center around textiles, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, wood products, food processing, petroleum refining and fishing.

• Population: 84.61 million
• Capital City: Manila (pop: 12 million)
• Religion: 82% Roman Catholic, 9% Protestant, 5% Muslim, 3% Buddhist

Source of information: sino.net

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The Philippine Islands on the Web:
https://www.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook/geos/rp.html
http://www.worldinfozone.com/country.php?country=Philippines
http://www.lonelyplanet.com/worldguide/destinations/asia/philippines/