PHILIPPINES WILDLIFE GUIDE

The history of the Philippines is a fascinating journey that spans thousands of years, with influences from various cultures and civilizations.

Before 1521, the Philippines was inhabited by various indigenous communities long before the arrival of foreign powers. These groups lived in barangays (small settlements) and had developed their own cultures, languages, and customs. Some of the notable indigenous groups were the Tagalogs, Visayans, Ilocanos, Bicolanos, and Moros.

Ferdinand Magellan, a Portuguese explorer, arrived in the Philippines in 1521 and claimed the islands for Spain. However, it was Miguel López de Legazpi who established the first Spanish settlement in Cebu in 1565. The Spanish colonial rule lasted for over three centuries, during which the Philippines was governed by the Spanish crown through the Viceroyalty of New Spain (Mexico). The Filipinos were subjected to forced labor, conversion to Christianity, and other forms of oppression.

In the late 19th century, the Filipino nationalist movement gained momentum, led by figures like Jose Rizal, Andres Bonifacio, and Emilio Aguinaldo. The Katipunan, a secret society founded by Bonifacio, sparked the revolution against Spanish rule in 1896. After a series of battles, the Philippine Declaration of Independence was proclaimed on June 12, 1898. However, the United States defeated Spain in the Spanish-American War, leading to the transfer of the Philippines to American control.

The Treaty of Paris in 1898 ended the Spanish-American War and ceded the Philippines to the United States for $20 million. Initially, Filipinos welcomed the Americans as liberators from Spanish rule, but tensions grew as the US established colonial control. A period of resistance followed, with the Philippine-American War (1899-1902) being particularly notable. The US introduced public education, infrastructure, and governance reforms but continued to face opposition from nationalist movements.

During World War II, Japan invaded and occupied the Philippines from 1942 to 1945. The Japanese occupation was marked by brutalities, human rights abuses, and a harsh rule that triggered further resistance from Filipino guerilla fighters. The combined efforts of Filipino and American forces eventually led to the liberation of the Philippines in 1945.

On July 4, 1946, the Philippines gained independence from the United States. Since then, the country has experienced ups and downs, including political upheavals, economic growth, and social challenges. Notable events include the declaration of martial law by President Ferdinand Marcos in 1972, the People Power Revolution in 1986, which ousted Marcos, and subsequent democratic transitions.

Country Code: +63.

Currency: Pesos.

Electricity: Type A (2-pin flat, U.S.).

Language: Tagalog.

Latitude and Longitude: 12.8797° N, 121.7740° E.

Population: 113.9 milion (2021).

President: Bongbong Marcos.

Crime in the Philippines is a complex and multifaceted issue that stems from a combination of social, economic, and political factors. While the country has made progress in reducing certain types of crimes in recent years, it still faces significant challenges in addressing others.

Illegal Drugs and Drug-Related Crimes

The Philippines has been grappling with a major drug problem for decades. The government launched a nationwide anti-drug campaign under President Rodrigo Duterte, which gained international attention for its aggressive and controversial approach. The campaign included extrajudicial killings of suspected drug offenders, leading to concerns about human rights violations. While the government claimed that it has been successful in reducing drug-related crimes, the approach has been heavily criticized both locally and internationally.

Violent Crimes

Violent crimes, such as murder, robbery, and assault, remain a concern in the Philippines. Factors contributing to these crimes include poverty, unemployment, easy access to firearms, and inadequate law enforcement resources. Some areas, particularly urban centers, experience higher rates of violent crimes compared to rural regions.

Cybercrime

As internet and technology usage grows in the Philippines, cybercrime has become a significant issue. Activities such as online fraud, hacking, and identity theft have increased in recent years. The government has enacted laws and established agencies to combat cybercrime, but it remains a challenge due to the fast-paced evolution of technology and the difficulty in tracking cybercriminals.

Corruption

Corruption is another major challenge in the Philippines and can affect various aspects of society, including law enforcement, judiciary, and government agencies. It can hinder the effective implementation of policies and laws aimed at curbing crime, as well as erode public trust in institutions.

Organized Crime

Organized crime groups, including gangs and syndicates, are involved in various criminal activities, such as drug trafficking, human trafficking, and illegal gambling. These groups can be difficult to dismantle due to their complex structures and connections with influential individuals.

Terrorism

Certain regions in the Philippines, particularly in the southern part of the country, have experienced acts of terrorism carried out by extremist groups. Groups like Abu Sayyaf and the Maute Group have been responsible for bombings, kidnappings, and other violent acts, leading to security concerns in affected areas.

Petty Crimes

Petty crimes, like pickpocketing and street-level theft, are common in crowded urban areas and tourist destinations. Travelers are often advised to be cautious and vigilant to avoid falling victim to these crimes.

The Philippines is home to several stunning national parks and protected areas, each offering unique landscapes, biodiversity, and cultural significance. These parks play a vital role in preserving the country’s natural and cultural heritage.

Mount Apo Natural Park

Located in the island of Mindanao, Mount Apo is the highest peak in the Philippines, standing at 2,954 meters (9,692 feet) above sea level. The Mount Apo Natural Park is a protected area that covers around 72,884 hectares and is known for its diverse ecosystems, including montane forests, grasslands, and unique flora and fauna.

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most well-preserved coral reef systems in the world. It is located in the Sulu Sea, off the coast of Palawan. The park covers an area of about 130,028 hectares and is renowned for its rich marine biodiversity, including sharks, turtles, and various fish species.

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park

Also located in Palawan, this national park is home to the Puerto Princesa Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature. The underground river stretches for about 8.2 kilometers and features impressive limestone formations and unique cave biodiversity.

Mount Kitanglad Range Natural Park

Situated in the northern part of the island of Mindanao, Mount Kitanglad Range Natural Park is a protected area that includes Mount Kitanglad, the fourth-highest peak in the Philippines. The park covers approximately 47,270 hectares and is home to various endemic plant and animal species.

Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the province of Davao Oriental in Mindanao. It is notable for its pygmy forest, which features bonsai-like trees, and is home to the endangered Philippine eagle and other unique wildlife.

Mayon Volcano Natural Park

Mayon Volcano, located in the province of Albay in the Bicol Region, is famous for its near-perfect cone shape. The Mayon Volcano Natural Park covers approximately 5,775 hectares and is known for its scenic beauty and geological significance.

Mount Pulag National Park

Mount Pulag, situated in the province of Benguet in Luzon, is the third-highest peak in the Philippines. The national park is renowned for its mossy forests, grasslands, and the unique Dwarf Bamboo Forest, as well as being a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.

The Philippines is a tropical paradise with a diverse range of tourist attractions to suit every traveler’s interests. From pristine beaches and vibrant cities to historical landmarks and cultural sites.

Palawan

Palawan is often hailed as one of the most beautiful islands in the world, and it’s not hard to see why. Its stunning landscapes include the Puerto Princesa Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as the breathtaking Bacuit Archipelago and El Nido, known for its limestone cliffs, white sand beaches, and crystal-clear waters.

Boracay

Famous for its powdery white sand beaches and vibrant nightlife, Boracay is a top destination for beach lovers and party-goers. The island offers a variety of water sports, upscale resorts, and a lively atmosphere that attracts tourists from all over the globe.

Banaue Rice Terraces

The Banaue Rice Terraces, located in the province of Ifugao, are ancient terraced rice fields carved into the mountains by the indigenous Ifugao people. They are often referred to as the “Eighth Wonder of the World” and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Chocolate Hills

Found in Bohol, the Chocolate Hills are a unique geological formation consisting of over 1,200 perfectly cone-shaped hills. During the dry season, the hills turn brown, resembling giant chocolate kisses, hence their name.

Intramuros, Manila

Intramuros is the historic walled city within Manila, the capital of the Philippines. It is a significant cultural and historical site, with well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture, old churches, and Fort Santiago, which was once a Spanish fortress.

Taal Volcano and Taal Lake

Taal Volcano, located in Batangas province, is one of the most active volcanoes in the Philippines. Visitors can take a boat to the volcano island and hike to the crater’s edge for a breathtaking view of the caldera and Taal Lake.

Cebu and Bohol

Cebu is a vibrant province with a mix of city life and beautiful beaches, while Bohol is known for its unique attractions like the tarsier sanctuary, the Loboc River Cruise, and the stunning Chocolate Hills.

Pagsanjan Falls

Located in the province of Laguna, Pagsanjan Falls is a popular waterfall destination. Visitors can take a boat ride up the river to experience the falls up close and enjoy the thrill of shooting the rapids.

Vigan

Vigan, in the province of Ilocos Sur, is famous for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture. The city’s Calle Crisologo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a glimpse into the Philippines’ colonial past.

Siargao

Known as the surfing capital of the Philippines, Siargao Island offers beautiful beaches, pristine lagoons, and the famous Cloud 9 surf break. It’s a paradise for water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

The Philippines has two main weather seasons: the dry season and the rainy season.

Dry season

The dry season runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is generally sunny and dry, with little rainfall.

The average temperature is around 27°C, and the humidity is lower than during the rainy season. The dry season is a popular time to visit the Philippines, as it is the best time to enjoy the beaches and other outdoor activities.

Rainy season

The rainy season runs from May to October. During this time, the weather is more humid and rainy, with an average of 200-300 millimeters of rainfall per month.

The average temperature is still around 27°C, but the humidity can be very high, making it feel much hotter. The rainy season is not ideal for beach vacations, but it is a great time to go hiking, camping, or visiting waterfalls.

In addition to the dry and rainy seasons, the Philippines also experiences typhoons. Typhoons are large, powerful storms that can cause widespread damage.

They typically occur during the rainy season, from June to October.

Dry season (November to April)

The weather is generally sunny and dry, with little rainfall.

The average temperature is around 27°C.

The humidity is lower than during the rainy season.

The dry season is a popular time to visit the Philippines, as it is the best time to enjoy the beaches and other outdoor activities.

Rainy season (May to October)

The weather is more humid and rainy, with an average of 200-300 millimeters of rainfall per month.

The average temperature is still around 27°C.

The humidity can be very high, making it feel much hotter.

The rainy season is not ideal for beach vacations, but it is a great time to go hiking, camping, or visiting waterfalls.

Typhoons

Typhoons are large, powerful storms that can cause widespread damage.

They typically occur during the rainy season, from June to October.

Typhoons can produce winds of up to 200 kilometers per hour and can bring heavy rainfall and flooding.

It is important to be aware of the typhoon season and to take precautions if you are planning to travel to the Philippines during this time.