The Philippine Advantage

Discover the fascinating variety of 7,107 islands. Gorgeous bays, dazzling white beaches, azure seas, towering mountain ranges, cool cloud forests and a vast underwater cosmos are ready to enchant you. Welcome to the country of extraordinary nature, adventure and culture. One step into the Philippines and immediately you will find yourself in an experience beyond the usual. Seven thousand one hundred seven is a big number. Start with one.

“The Underground” – La Venta 2010

Economy

The Philippines is an emerging economy anchored on agriculture but with substantial contributions from manufacturing, mining, and service industries such as tourism and business process outsourcing. It is also listed in the roster of the “Next Eleven” economies identified by Goldman Sachs investment bank as having a high potential of becoming among the world’s largest economies in the 21st century and with promising outlook for investment and future growth.

“Team Building” – El Nido Resorts

Socio-Economic Indicators

The Philippines is the world’s 12th most populous country, with a population of about 99 million (2010 Est.). Its economy is consumption-led , with annual average family income placed at $4,790 (2009, $43:Php1) and annual average family expenditure at $4,093 (2009, $43:Php1`). Its national economy is the 34th largest in the world, with a gross domestic product (GDP) of US$351.2 Billion (2010 Est.) and gross national product (GNP) of US$80.85 Billion.

“Hanging Out” – The Farm at San Benito

With an average of five members per family, the Filipino family is Asia’s youngest and largest in size. A large part of Filipinos live in Metro Manila with a population of 11.55M (Census 2007). The annual average family income in Metro Manila is at $5,279 (2009, $43: Php 1 ), while the average family expenditure is at $ 4,581 (2009, $43: Php 1).

“Planking” – Department of Tourism

Capital City & the Metropolitan Manila Area

• Manila is the national capital of the Philippines.
• Metro Manila is the metropolitan area of the city of Manila, which is comprised of 16 cities and municipalities.
• Metro Manila is the financial, commercial and industrial center of the Philippines.
• Metro Manila’s gross regional product is estimated as of July 2009 to be PhP468.4 billion (at constant 1985 prices) and accounts for 33% of the nation’s GDP.
• Metropolitan Manila ranked as the 40th richest urban agglomeration in the world with gross regional product of PhP468.4 billion according to Price Waterhouse Coopers.
• Population – 11.55M (as of August 2007 Census)
• Gender Statistics: Male 19.1%, Female 50.9%
• Age Groups: 0 to 4 years- 31.9%, 15 to 64 years- 65.2%, >65 years and over- 2.9%

Tourism and Travel

The Philippines is Asia’s Beach Capital, with a coastline twice the length of the United States. It is a paradise blessed with gorgeous waterscapes, white sand beaches and bodies of water blessed with a variety of marine life. It has been described as the most exciting diving destination in the world. The Philippines is to scuba divers what Switzerland is to skiers, Hawaii is to surfers, and Nepal to mountaineers.

“Getting Lost” – George Tapan for DOT

The Philippines is the most inexpensive shopping destination. From imported name brands from the West to products handcrafted in the country, such as weaves, baskets, brassware, embroidery, furniture, and many others.

“Going Upstairs” – George Tapan for DOT

Foreign citizens who have lived, worked, studied or traveled in the Philippines have fallen in love with the beauty of the country and the warmth of its people.

“Outdoor Cafe” – El Nido Resorts

People, Language and Education

Filipinos are famous for their warm hospitality, friendliness to foreigners, musical and artistic talents, romanticism, deep religiosity, and bravery. They are also fond of music, fiestas, and politics.

“Group Shot” – Stephen P. David

The Philippines is the third largest English-speaking country in the world. Filipino and English are the official languages used in government, education, print, broadcast media, and business.

“Street Fashion” – Department of Tourism

Education in the Philippines is mostly based on the American education system. Literacy rate is 93.4% (2003) and Functional Literacy is at 84.1% (2003).