Philippines

Philippines

The Philippines, officially the Republic of the Philippines, is an archipelagic country in Southeast Asia. It is located in the western Pacific Ocean and consists of more than 7,600 islands. The country is bordered by the South China Sea to the west, the Philippine Sea to the east, and the Celebes Sea to the south.

The Philippines covers a total area of approximately 300,000 square kilometres and has a population of around 115 million people as of 2025–2026, making it one of the most populous countries in Southeast Asia.

Key Country Information

  • Capital City: Manila
  • Head of State (President): Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
  • Head of Government: Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
  • Official Languages: Filipino, English
  • Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP)
  • International Dialing Code: +63

Population and Economy

The Philippines has a population of approximately 115 million. Its economy is service-oriented, with major contributions from business process outsourcing (BPO), overseas remittances, manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism.

Key industries include call centers and BPO services, electronics manufacturing, construction, shipbuilding, agriculture, healthcare services, and tourism. The Philippines is a major supplier of skilled and semi-skilled workers to global labor markets.

International Memberships

  • United Nations (UN): Member since 1945
  • Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN): Founding member since 1967
  • World Trade Organization (WTO): Member since 1995
  • Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC): Member since 1989
  • Non-Aligned Movement (NAM): Member since 1958

Living and Working in the Philippines

Living conditions in the Philippines vary widely by location. Major cities such as Manila, Cebu, and Davao offer modern amenities and employment opportunities, while rural areas have a lower cost of living.

Foreign nationals generally require a work visa and alien employment permit to work legally in the Philippines. Employment opportunities are available in education, IT, engineering, construction, healthcare, hospitality, and multinational companies, often requiring employer sponsorship.

Summary

The Philippines is a Southeast Asian nation with a large population, English-speaking workforce, and a growing economy. As a member of the UN, ASEAN, WTO, and APEC, the country plays an active role in regional and global cooperation and remains an important destination and source of international labor.