What are the top 10 mind blowing facts about the Philippines?

 

Mark Rhysand

Studies philosophy, humanities, anthropology and metaphysics

Living the Introvert’s dream

Here are ten mind-blowing facts about the Philippines that you may find surprising:

1. The Philippines is made up of over 7,000 islands, making it one of the largest archipelagos in the world.
2. The country is home to the world's smallest monkey, the tarsier, which can fit in the palm of your hand.
3. Filipinos are known for their love of basketball, and it's not uncommon to see makeshift basketball courts on streets and alleys throughout the country.
4. The Philippines is the world's leading producer of coconuts and is also a major exporter of pineapples and bananas.
5. The world's largest pearl, weighing in at 14.1 pounds and valued at $100 million, was found in the waters off the coast of the Philippines.
6. The country is home to the world's largest indoor arena, the Philippine Arena, which can seat up to 55,000 people.
7. The Filipino language, Tagalog, has a unique way of expressing time. For example, instead of saying "one o'clock," Filipinos say "alas una ng hapon," which translates to "one of the afternoon."
8. The Philippines is one of only two predominantly Catholic countries in Asia (the other being East Timor), and Catholicism plays a significant role in the country's culture and traditions.
9. The country is home to some of the world's most beautiful beaches, including Boracay Island, which was named the best island in the world by Travel + Leisure magazine in 2012.
10. The Philippine eagle, also known as the monkey-eating eagle, is one of the largest and most powerful birds of prey in the world and is found only in the Philippines.