Surprising Facts About the Philippines Every Traveler Should Know

Thinking of visiting the Philippines? Get to know this tropical paradise through its quirky customs, natural wonders, and warm-hearted people. These fun facts will help you see the country beyond its beaches and make you even more excited for your trip.

1. The Philippines is the second-largest archipelago in the world, with over 7,600 islands, making it a haven for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts.

2. Only about 2,000 of these are inhabited, and many are unnamed.

3. The Philippines is the only predominantly Christian country in Asia, with more than 86% of its population identifying as Roman Catholic. This strong Christian heritage dates back to Spanish colonization in the 16th century and continues to play a major role in Filipino culture today.

4. The Philippines has a unique culture with more than 170 languages.

5. The Philippines is famous for vibrant jeepney transportation.

6. The Philippines is home to the world's longest underground river. It is home to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, which is one of the longest underground rivers in the world.

7. The Philippine Monkey-Eating Eagle, one of the world's largest and most powerful birds, is the national bird of the Philippines.

8. There are approximately 50 volcanoes in the Philippines, with 10 of them being active.

9. The Philippines has more coastline than the United States.

10. Filipinos created banana ketchup, a popular condiment made with bananas, sugar, vinegar, and spices.

11. The Philippines was a Spanish colony for over 300 years. It was later ceded to the U.S. in 1898 and was occupied by Japan during World War II.

12. The country was named after 16th-century Spanish King Philip II.

13. The modern yo-yo was popularized by a Filipino named Pedro Flores.

14. The largest and most valuable pearl in the world was discovered in the Philippines. Found off the coast of Palawan, the Pearl of Puerto Princesa weighs an astonishing 75 pounds (34 kilograms) and is estimated to be worth over $100 million.

15. Christmas is celebrated longer in the Philippines. Filipinos start spreading holiday cheer as early as September, marking the beginning of what’s known as the “Ber months” (September to December). The festive season continues well into January, ending with the Feast of the Three Kings.

16. The Philippine tarsier is one of the smallest primates in the world and a true national treasure found only in the Philippines, particularly on the island of Bohol.

17. One of the most famous and unique street foods in the Philippines is balut, a fertilized duck embryo that’s boiled and eaten straight from the shell. Considered a Filipino delicacy, balut is often enjoyed with a pinch of salt or a splash of vinegar and is commonly sold by street vendors at night.