The Philippines comprises over 7,000 islands stretching between Taiwan and Indonesia. They span a distance of 1,150 miles (1,850 km) from north to south and 680 miles (965 km) East to West. The combined land area is approximately the same at the US State of Arizona. The country is divided into three geographical areas: Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Each regional group is recognizable by distinct traits and languages. Tribal communities can be found scattered throughout the islands. While Pilipino (based on Tagalog) and English are official national languages, there are 168 languages currently being used by the people. While the islands are beautiful and the variety of vegetables and tropical fruit is awesome, one trait stands above the rest: the hospitality of the Filipino people. Filipinos are some of the friendliest people on earth. Their warm smiles and fun-loving presence will capture your heart.

COUNTRY FACTS

Full Country Name: Republic of the Philippines

Area: 116,610 sq mi (299, 764 sq km)

Population: 82.7 million

Capital City: Manila (pop. 12 million)

People: Filipinos are primarily of Malay decent. Many of the people also have Chinese, American, Spanish or Arab ancestry.

Language: English, Indigenous languages, Tagalog, Visayan, Ilocano

Religion: Shamanism, Protestant, Islam, Catholic, Animism

Government: Democratic

President: Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo