PHILIPPINES
FACTS
A republic in the western Pacific Ocean. The Philippines includes more than 7,100 islands, but most of the land area is shared among the 11 largest islands. The terrain is mountainous and includes many active volcanoes. The location of the Philippines just north of the equator gives the republic a moderate tropical climate suited for the cultivation of export crops such as coconuts and pineapples.
The people of the Philippines are called Filipinos. The republic has one of the highest population-growth rates in the world. The official languages are English and Filipino, which is based on the indigenous Tagalog language. More than 80 other indigenous languages and dialects are also spoken, and the people of the Philippines are divided into regional ethnolinguistic groups. The Philippines is the only predominantly Christian country in Asia, a result of its colonization by the Spanish Empire in the 16th century. Muslims, often called Moros, live predominantly in the southern islands and form a small but significant religious minority.
The first Spanish settlement was established in the Philippines in 1565, marking the onset of Spanish colonial rule. The Spanish-American War ended in 1898 with the transfer of the Philippines to United States control. In 1946, after more than 300 years under foreign rule, the Philippines became an independent democratic republic. In 1972 Philippine president Ferdinand Marcos imposed martial law, suspending democratic institutions and restricting civil rights. A four-day protest in Manila known as the People Power Movement toppled the Marcos regime in 1986, and a new constitution based on democratic principles was ratified the following year.
FUNS
I first arrived to this wonderful country 1991. After taking a divecourse in Puerto Galera, I also took the first step towards many years of great times in Philippines. My paradise, I found in Moalboal, at the west cost of the southern island Cebu. Its mainly a divers destination, providing world class diving. Often spotted is for exampel Whalesharks. The so called micro diving is also in absolut world class. However, Moalboal also has something to offer for any non-diver. Bars and restaurants, expeditions and actiontours, beaches and lots of other activities. Philippines is just a great destination for anyone who likes to meet friendly, open people. Enjoying great weather, great diving, thrilling actiontours, nightly fun, cheap food and icecold beers, Moalboal is the place for you.