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:
- The Philippines is made up of over 7,000 islands, making it one of the largest archipelagos in the world.
- The country is home to the world's smallest monkey, the tarsier, which can fit in the palm of your hand.
- 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.
- The Philippines is the world's leading producer of coconuts and is also a major exporter of pineapples and bananas.
- 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.
- The country is home to the world's largest indoor arena, the Philippine Arena, which can seat up to 55,000 people.
- 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."
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
