About the Philippines
- The Philippines is an archipelago of 7,200 islands. It lies to the east of Hong Kong (1.5 hour flight) and South of Japan (2.5 hour flight)
- The Philippines has a long history of occupation and has more in common with European and South American countries than other parts of Asia. The Spanish occupied the country several centuries ago; it was Magellan who first claimed the island nation as a Spanish Colony.
- It was liberated by America in the 1900’s and played a pivotal role in the defense of America for the past century. On December 8 (December 7 in the US) 1941 the Philippines was attacked by Japan just hours after the Pearl Harbor attacks.
- Gen. Douglas Macarthur was stationed in the Philippines and so began the defense of the Pacific and the ever-deepening bonds of the Phil/American alliance. His famous words were uttered from the shores of Corregidor when the General vowed “I shall return” and return he did.
- The Philippines was liberated from the Japanese occupation in 1945 representing a pivotal turning point in the war in the pacific ultimately leading to the end of WWII.
- Following the war the bonds of which tied the two countries were tested by political stress as the nation struggled to form one of the freest speaking democracies in the world. It’s history of political instability gave way to a modern and sophisticated democratic government and thoroughly modern economy.
- The very characteristics which were seen as a negative in the 1970’s and 1980’s have become the countries greatest asset. A people who cherish freedom, equality, freedom of speech and the right to progress on a world stage.
- This has generated world class educational institutions and students who are more global than any other in Asia.
- English is the predominant language of business – and education is the key to opportunity.
- Population:: 90 million
- Population of Manila :: 18 million
- National Language :: Tagalog (a Spanish language base)
- Predominant religion :: Catholic
- Head of state :: President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo
- Education :: There are over 80 Universities and higher education institutions in the Philippines Vocational training is prevalent in specialist industries such as contact centers.