7 Interesting Facts You Didn't Know About Philippines
Posted by Maris on 16th Jan 2024
The Philippines is an archipelago of 7,641 islands, making it the second biggest in the world. Though its more than 36,000 km of immaculate white beaches are its main draw, this destination offers tourists more than just sandy expanses. The Philippines has an abundance of history, culture, nature, and adventure, from its bustling capital Manila and dilapidated colonial towns to island hopping and breathtaking views of the volcano. Here are seven fascinating facts about the Philippines to help you get a better understanding of this amazing nation.
There is the longest underground river in the world there
The Puerta Princesa Subterranean River National Park is located beneath the St. Paul's Mountain Range on the island of Palawan. It is 24 kilometers long and was formed millions of years ago beneath the mountains. The longest navigable subterranean river is now acknowledged as one of the Seven Wonders of Nature and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
A portion of the cave system can be accessed by entering the cave from the location where the river empties into the sea.
Over 175 languages are spoken throughout the nation.
In the Philippines, at least 175 languages are spoken, and at least 171 of those are regarded as "living" languages. It's the fifth largest English-speaking country in the world, with over 52 million speakers, so you won't have any problems getting understood.
Other languages spoken in the area are four tribal dialects that are thought to be extinct as well as Tagalog, Cebuano, Ilocano, Hiligaynon, and Bicolano.
It is home to three of the biggest retail malls in the world.
In the Philippines, shopping is much anticipated. In fact, it is home to SM Megamall, SM North Edsa, and SM Mall of Asia, three of the ten biggest shopping malls in the world.
With a staggering 498,000 square meters, the SM North Edsa is the largest mall. That is larger than the Vatican City when put into perspective. The supermall is located in Quezon City, Manila. Viewing the sky garden, simulated river, and movie theater is worth the trip even if you're not a self-described shopaholic.
An island that has more volcanoes than towns
Despite being the smallest island in the world at just 14 miles long and 8.5 miles wide, Camiguin has more volcanoes than settlements. It boasts more volcanoes per square mile than any island on planet too.
But fear not—there's no reason to avoid it because the volcanoes have been dormant since the 1950s. Actually quite the opposite, its bubbling hot springs, fine white sand beaches, and upbeat residents make it a well-liked tourist destination.
Asia's first Basketball League is based there.
In the Philippines, basketball is a national passion. The game was first introduced into the public school system as a women's sport in the early twentieth century, during the American Colonial era, and it is believed that this is when the love affair started. These days, it may be found anywhere, from improvised hoops on street corners to specialized sports facilities.
Second only to the NBA in age, the Philippines Professional League is the first in Asia and among the oldest worldwide.
Jeepneys are the most often used form of transportation.
The Philippines is synonymous with jeepneys. Thousands of excess Jeeps were left behind by American forces after World War II. These were cleverly mended together by resourceful Filipinos to create transport vehicles that can accommodate up to 20 people at once. They are often painted in vivid colors with slogans imprinted on them, making them easy to detect.
In an effort to reduce traffic in the city, jeepneys are gradually being replaced by greener options. You should still have time to board a famous piece of history, though, as there are still lots of them chugging through the streets.
The Monkey-Eating Eagle is the national bird.
Unfairly, the Philippine Eagle is also referred to as the "monkey-eating eagle." Although its prey isn't exactly immodest in size—pigs, snakes, and bats—it doesn't actually eat monkeys. It is easy to understand how it does this, given that its wingspan is about two meters.
It is also regarded as one of the strongest and rarest birds on the planet, and killing one carries a heavy price: a 12-year prison sentence.