Philippines

The Philippines is an emerging economy with a democratic system of government. Located in Southeast Asia, the country is an archipelago consisting of more than 7,100 islands, of which more than 800 are inhabited. The major island groupings are Luzon in the north, where the capital, Manila, is located; the Visayas in the center; and Mindanao in the south. Tourist facilities are available within population centers and the main tourist areas. English is widely spoken in the Philippines, although less so outside metropolitan areas, and most signs are in English. Read the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on the Philippines for additional information on U.S.-Philippines relations.