Philippines

The Philippines, officially the Republic of the Philippines, is an archipelagic country in Southeast Asia. In the western Pacific Ocean, it consists of 7,641 islands, with a total area of 300,000 square kilometers, which are broadly categorized in three main geographical divisions from north to south: Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. The Philippines is bounded by the South China Sea to the west, the Philippine Sea to the east, and the Celebes Sea to the south. It shares maritime borders with Taiwan to the north, Japan to the northeast, Palau to the east and southeast, Indonesia to the south, Malaysia to the southwest, Vietnam to the west, and China to the northwest. It is the world's twelfth-most-populous country, with diverse ethnicities and cultures. Manila is the country's capital, and its most populated city is Quezon City. Both are within Metro Manila.
philippines

Some of the key events about Philippines

  • 1521
    The first circumnavigation of the globe was completed, with the expedition reaching the Philippines
  • 1521
    The first circumnavigation expedition led to Spanish colonization of the Philippines
  • 1565
    The first permanent Spanish settlement in the Philippines was established in Cebu
  • 1762
    British forces occupied Manila during the Seven Years' War
  • 1863
    The first railway in Southeast Asia opened in the Philippines
  • 1872
    Three Filipino priests were executed, sparking nationalist sentiments
  • 1896
    The Philippine Revolution against Spanish rule began
  • 1898
    The Philippines declared independence from Spain
  • 1899
    The Philippine-American War started, resulting in significant casualties
  • 1935
    The Commonwealth of the Philippines was established, granting more autonomy to the country
  • 1942
    Japan invaded and occupied the Philippines during World War II
  • 1946
    The Philippines gained full independence from the United States
  • 1965
    Martial law was declared, leading to human rights abuses and economic decline
  • 1983
    A prominent opposition leader was assassinated, triggering widespread protests
  • 1986
    The People Power Revolution peacefully overthrew the authoritarian regime
  • 1991
    Mount Pinatubo erupted, causing widespread destruction and economic losses
  • 1992
    The U.S. military bases in the Philippines were closed, marking a new era of sovereignty
  • 2010
    The Philippines held its first automated national elections
  • 2013
    Super Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda) devastated parts of the Philippines, causing thousands of deaths
  • 2015
    The Philippines hosted the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit

Disclaimer: This material is written based on information taken from open sources, including Wikipedia, news media, podcasts, and other public sources.

Philippines Latest news

Taal Volcano Erupts: Steam Plume Rises Over 2 km High

Taal Volcano Erupts: Steam Plume Rises Over 2 km High

October 2 2024, 10:28 AM  •  209 views
Typhoon Krathon Approaches Taiwan: Massive Evacuations Underway

Typhoon Krathon Approaches Taiwan: Massive Evacuations Underway

October 2 2024, 10:03 AM  •  0 views
Ex-Florida Candidate Charged for Alleged Threat Against Congresswoman

Ex-Florida Candidate Charged for Alleged Threat Against Congresswoman

October 1 2024, 10:25 PM  •  314 views
Philippine Midterms: Marcos-Duterte Showdown Looms in Crucial Senate Race

Philippine Midterms: Marcos-Duterte Showdown Looms in Crucial Senate Race

October 1 2024, 12:07 PM  •  700 views
Taiwan Braces for Powerful Typhoon Krathon After Philippines Impact

Taiwan Braces for Powerful Typhoon Krathon After Philippines Impact

October 1 2024, 04:03 AM  •  527 views
Vietnamese Fishermen Injured in Disputed Paracel Islands Incident

Vietnamese Fishermen Injured in Disputed Paracel Islands Incident

October 1 2024, 03:10 AM  •  625 views
Vietnamese Fishing Vessel Attacked Near Disputed Paracel Islands

Vietnamese Fishing Vessel Attacked Near Disputed Paracel Islands

September 30 2024, 12:48 PM  •  537 views
Powerful Typhoon Krathon Threatens Northern Philippines with Destructive Force

Powerful Typhoon Krathon Threatens Northern Philippines with Destructive Force

September 30 2024, 01:26 AM  •  757 views
Philippines Resupplies Warship in Disputed South China Sea Waters

Philippines Resupplies Warship in Disputed South China Sea Waters

September 27 2024, 11:45 AM  •  60 views
Red Cross Visits Crew of Hijacked Vessel in Yemen Amid Ongoing Tensions

Red Cross Visits Crew of Hijacked Vessel in Yemen Amid Ongoing Tensions

September 27 2024, 10:50 AM  •  14 views
Taiwan Reports Surge in Chinese Military Activity Around the Island

Taiwan Reports Surge in Chinese Military Activity Around the Island

September 27 2024, 09:35 AM  •  45 views
China Launches Rare ICBM Test in Pacific, Raising Regional Tensions

China Launches Rare ICBM Test in Pacific, Raising Regional Tensions

September 25 2024, 12:38 PM  •  424 views
Asian Economies Set for 5% Growth, Boosted by AI Chip Demand

Asian Economies Set for 5% Growth, Boosted by AI Chip Demand

September 25 2024, 11:07 AM  •  453 views
Philippines Confronts China Over Air Incident and Missile Concerns

Philippines Confronts China Over Air Incident and Missile Concerns

September 25 2024, 06:33 AM  •  543 views
US-Philippines Extend Missile System Deployment, Defying China's Concerns

US-Philippines Extend Missile System Deployment, Defying China's Concerns

September 25 2024, 05:22 AM  •  2411 views
Indonesia's Coal Plant Closure Deal Faces Setbacks Amid Transition Challenges

Indonesia's Coal Plant Closure Deal Faces Setbacks Amid Transition Challenges

September 25 2024, 01:11 AM  •  176 views
Myanmar Grapples with Deadly Floods as Cleanup Efforts Begin

Myanmar Grapples with Deadly Floods as Cleanup Efforts Begin

September 23 2024, 02:31 PM  •  437 views
Russia Pledges Nuclear Test Restraint, Echoing Cold War Tensions

Russia Pledges Nuclear Test Restraint, Echoing Cold War Tensions

September 23 2024, 02:16 PM  •  451 views
World Bank Appoints First Director for Climate Loss and Damage Fund

World Bank Appoints First Director for Climate Loss and Damage Fund

September 21 2024, 02:06 PM  •  1105 views
Philippine Senator Urges China to Combat Illegal Gambling Syndicates

Philippine Senator Urges China to Combat Illegal Gambling Syndicates

September 20 2024, 12:07 PM  •  4559 views
Philippines-China Tension Escalates at Disputed Scarborough Shoal

Philippines-China Tension Escalates at Disputed Scarborough Shoal

Confrontation between Philippine supply ships and Chinese coast guard at Scarborough Shoal. Incident highlights ongoing South China Sea territorial disputes as ASEAN leaders gather for summit.

Society, Politics • October 8 2024, 11:19 AM  •  7047 views
Filipino Executed in Saudi Arabia Despite Philippine Government's Appeals

Filipino Executed in Saudi Arabia Despite Philippine Government's Appeals

A Filipino citizen convicted of murder was executed in Saudi Arabia, despite efforts by the Philippine government to prevent it. President Marcos Jr. expressed regret over the "unfortunate" outcome.

Society, Politics • October 8 2024, 08:02 AM  •  701 views
ASEAN Unity Tested as Regional Conflicts Intensify

ASEAN Unity Tested as Regional Conflicts Intensify

ASEAN leaders gather in Laos amid escalating tensions in Myanmar and the South China Sea. The bloc's cohesion faces challenges as it struggles to address regional conflicts and maintain its relevance.

Society, Politics • October 8 2024, 05:09 AM  •  798 views
Philippines Boosts Defense Industry with New Law, Eyes $35B Modernization

Philippines Boosts Defense Industry with New Law, Eyes $35B Modernization

Philippine President Marcos Jr signed a law to develop the country's defense industry, reducing reliance on imports. The initiative includes $35 billion for military modernization amid South China Sea tensions.

Economics, Politics • October 8 2024, 04:19 AM  •  546 views
Ex-President Duterte Seeks Davao Mayoral Seat Amid Controversial Legacy

Ex-President Duterte Seeks Davao Mayoral Seat Amid Controversial Legacy

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has registered to run for mayor of Davao City, despite his contentious anti-drug campaign legacy. This move marks his return to local politics amidst ongoing ICC investigations.

Society, Politics • October 7 2024, 12:27 PM  •  678 views
Geothermal Energy: A Strategic Opportunity in Alaska and Beyond

Geothermal Energy: A Strategic Opportunity in Alaska and Beyond

Geothermal power emerges as a promising energy source, with Alaska's Aleutian Islands offering significant potential. This renewable resource could enhance energy security and strategic resilience across the Pacific Rim.

Economics, Politics, Science • October 7 2024, 11:07 AM  •  5064 views
South Korea and Philippines Forge Strategic Alliance Amid Regional Tensions

South Korea and Philippines Forge Strategic Alliance Amid Regional Tensions

South Korea and the Philippines have elevated their relationship to a strategic partnership, focusing on defense and security cooperation. The move comes as both nations face increasing regional challenges.

Society, Politics • October 7 2024, 08:12 AM  •  725 views
Philippines and South Korea Forge Strategic Partnership, Bolster Regional Cooperation

Philippines and South Korea Forge Strategic Partnership, Bolster Regional Cooperation

Philippines and South Korea elevate ties to strategic partnership, focusing on security, economy, and regional stability. Leaders discuss South China Sea issues and North Korea's nuclear program.

Economics, Politics • October 7 2024, 04:15 AM  •  662 views
South Korea's Yoon Predicts North Korean Provocations Ahead of U.S. Election

South Korea's Yoon Predicts North Korean Provocations Ahead of U.S. Election

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol anticipates major provocations from North Korea, including nuclear and missile tests, as the U. S. presidential election approaches. Yoon emphasizes the importance of denuclearization at upcoming ASEAN summits.

Society, Politics • October 5 2024, 11:19 PM  •  1558 views
Japan's New PM Seeks to Mend China Ties Amid Regional Security Focus

Japan's New PM Seeks to Mend China Ties Amid Regional Security Focus

Japan's new government aims to improve relations with China while strengthening regional security alliances. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba makes diplomatic debut with calls to key allies.

Politics • October 2 2024, 03:06 PM  •  1076 views
Taal Volcano Erupts: Steam Plume Rises Over 2 km High

Taal Volcano Erupts: Steam Plume Rises Over 2 km High

Taal Volcano in the Philippines has erupted, producing a 2 km high steam plume. No immediate evacuations or injuries reported, but authorities remain vigilant due to the volcano's history of destructive eruptions.

Society, Science • October 2 2024, 10:28 AM  •  209 views
Typhoon Krathon Approaches Taiwan: Massive Evacuations Underway

Typhoon Krathon Approaches Taiwan: Massive Evacuations Underway

Typhoon Krathon advances towards Taiwan, prompting large-scale evacuations. Authorities brace for impact as the storm, with winds up to 173 kph, is set to make an unusual landfall on the island's west coast.

Society, Science • October 2 2024, 10:03 AM  •  0 views
Ex-Florida Candidate Charged for Alleged Threat Against Congresswoman

Ex-Florida Candidate Charged for Alleged Threat Against Congresswoman

William Robert Braddock III faces federal charges for allegedly threatening Rep. Anna Paulina Luna during a 2021 primary. The case highlights ongoing concerns about political violence against women.

Society, Politics • October 1 2024, 10:25 PM  •  314 views
Philippine Midterms: Marcos-Duterte Showdown Looms in Crucial Senate Race

Philippine Midterms: Marcos-Duterte Showdown Looms in Crucial Senate Race

Registration begins for Philippines' 2025 midterms, setting stage for potential clash between President Marcos and the Duterte family. Senate race emerges as key battleground in shifting political landscape.

Politics • October 1 2024, 12:07 PM  •  700 views
Taiwan Braces for Powerful Typhoon Krathon After Philippines Impact

Taiwan Braces for Powerful Typhoon Krathon After Philippines Impact

Taiwan prepares for Typhoon Krathon, closing schools and evacuating vulnerable areas. The storm, which previously affected the Philippines, is expected to hit Kaohsiung before moving across the island.

Society, Business, Science • October 1 2024, 04:03 AM  •  527 views
Vietnamese Fishermen Injured in Disputed Paracel Islands Incident

Vietnamese Fishermen Injured in Disputed Paracel Islands Incident

Ten Vietnamese fishermen were injured in an attack near the contested Paracel Islands. The incident highlights ongoing tensions in the South China Sea, a crucial global maritime route.

Society, Politics • October 1 2024, 03:10 AM  •  625 views
Vietnamese Fishing Vessel Attacked Near Disputed Paracel Islands

Vietnamese Fishing Vessel Attacked Near Disputed Paracel Islands

A Vietnamese fishing boat was assaulted near the contested Paracel Islands, resulting in injuries to 10 crew members. The incident highlights ongoing tensions in the South China Sea region.

Economics, Politics • September 30 2024, 12:48 PM  •  537 views
Powerful Typhoon Krathon Threatens Northern Philippines with Destructive Force

Powerful Typhoon Krathon Threatens Northern Philippines with Destructive Force

Typhoon Krathon batters northern Philippines with winds up to 175 kph. Authorities implement evacuations, close schools, and halt sea travel as the storm threatens coastal areas with potential devastation.

Society, Science • September 30 2024, 01:26 AM  •  757 views
Philippines Resupplies Warship in Disputed South China Sea Waters

Philippines Resupplies Warship in Disputed South China Sea Waters

China reports on Philippines' supply mission to a warship at Second Thomas Shoal, part of a temporary agreement. The Philippines confirms the mission, amid ongoing territorial disputes in the South China Sea.

Economics, Politics • September 27 2024, 11:45 AM  •  60 views
Red Cross Visits Crew of Hijacked Vessel in Yemen Amid Ongoing Tensions

Red Cross Visits Crew of Hijacked Vessel in Yemen Amid Ongoing Tensions

The International Committee of the Red Cross visited the crew of the Galaxy Leader, hijacked by Houthi rebels in Yemen. Negotiations for the release of 25 multinational crew members continue amidst regional conflicts.

Society, Politics • September 27 2024, 10:50 AM  •  14 views
Taiwan Reports Surge in Chinese Military Activity Around the Island

Taiwan Reports Surge in Chinese Military Activity Around the Island

Taiwan's defense ministry detects 43 Chinese warplanes near its coasts, with 11 crossing the median line. The activity is part of annual drills simulating attacks and denial of foreign assistance.

Politics • September 27 2024, 09:35 AM  •  45 views
China Launches Rare ICBM Test in Pacific, Raising Regional Tensions

China Launches Rare ICBM Test in Pacific, Raising Regional Tensions

China conducted an unusual ICBM test in the Pacific Ocean, escalating regional tensions. The launch, part of routine training, is seen as a display of nuclear capabilities and a message to the US and its allies.

Politics • September 25 2024, 12:38 PM  •  424 views
Asian Economies Set for 5% Growth, Boosted by AI Chip Demand

Asian Economies Set for 5% Growth, Boosted by AI Chip Demand

Asian Development Bank forecasts 5% growth for developing Asian economies in 2024, driven by US economic strength and AI chip demand. Potential risks include protectionist measures and election uncertainties.

Business, Economics, Science • September 25 2024, 11:07 AM  •  453 views
Philippines Confronts China Over Air Incident and Missile Concerns

Philippines Confronts China Over Air Incident and Missile Concerns

Philippines reports Chinese helicopter shadowing its aircraft near Scarborough Shoal, escalating tensions. Defense officials rebuke China's concerns over U.S. missile system, highlighting ongoing South China Sea disputes.

Politics • September 25 2024, 06:33 AM  •  543 views
US-Philippines Extend Missile System Deployment, Defying China's Concerns

US-Philippines Extend Missile System Deployment, Defying China's Concerns

US and Philippines agree to keep Typhon missile system in northern Philippines indefinitely, despite China's objections. The move aims to boost deterrence in the region amid ongoing tensions.

Politics • September 25 2024, 05:22 AM  •  2411 views
Indonesia's Coal Plant Closure Deal Faces Setbacks Amid Transition Challenges

Indonesia's Coal Plant Closure Deal Faces Setbacks Amid Transition Challenges

G7-backed initiative to close Indonesian coal plant hits snags. Legal and financial concerns delay Cirebon-1 shutdown agreement, raising questions about future energy transition projects in emerging markets.

Economics, Politics, Science • September 25 2024, 01:11 AM  •  176 views
Myanmar Grapples with Deadly Floods as Cleanup Efforts Begin

Myanmar Grapples with Deadly Floods as Cleanup Efforts Begin

Over 380 dead in Myanmar due to recent floods and landslides. Military government initiates cleanup amid challenges of ongoing civil conflict and widespread infrastructure damage.

Society, Politics • September 23 2024, 02:31 PM  •  437 views
Russia Pledges Nuclear Test Restraint, Echoing Cold War Tensions

Russia Pledges Nuclear Test Restraint, Echoing Cold War Tensions

Russia vows to abstain from nuclear testing if the US reciprocates, amidst modernized test sites and global tensions. The pledge revives Cold War-era nuclear concerns in a shifting geopolitical landscape.

Politics, Science • September 23 2024, 02:16 PM  •  451 views
World Bank Appoints First Director for Climate Loss and Damage Fund

World Bank Appoints First Director for Climate Loss and Damage Fund

The World Bank has named Senegalese-American finance expert Ibrahima Cheikh Diong as the inaugural director of the Loss and Damage Fund. This appointment marks a significant step in operationalizing the fund to assist climate-affected nations.

Economics, Politics • September 21 2024, 02:06 PM  •  1105 views
Philippine Senator Urges China to Combat Illegal Gambling Syndicates

Philippine Senator Urges China to Combat Illegal Gambling Syndicates

Philippine Senator Risa Hontiveros calls for increased action from China to address illegal online gambling and scam centers in Southeast Asia, highlighting concerns of forced labor and potential espionage activities.

Society, Politics • September 20 2024, 12:07 PM  •  4559 views