A Brief History of the Philippines
The Philippine islands are an archipelago of over 7000 islands located in South east Asia. Its full name is Philippines (Republica ng Pilipinas). The Philippines shares no land boundaries but Taiwan, Vietnam, Borneo, Indonesia are all located across seas from the Philippines. There are 17 regions and 80 provinces in the Philippines Region and Regional Centers. It is the world’s 12 th most populous country with a population of more than 90 million. Manila is the capital city. By virtue of its location in the western Pacific Ocean, the country is endowed with natural resources. Its national economy is the world’s 39 th largest with a GDP of $330.259. Several Filipinos work in different countries of the world.
The Philippines was originally ruled by the Spanish and later by the US. There was a Philippine Revolution which spawned the short-lived First Philippine Republic, then came the Philippine American War. After World War 2, the US retained sovereignty over the islands for a brief period. Later, the Treaty of Manila, established the Philippine Republic as an independent Nation.
Today, the American influence can be seen in the islands whether in dress, education or lifestyle, although some its old traditions have been retained. It follows Roman Catholicism, although in some areas, Islam is followed. The official languages are English and Filipino, although other languages may also be spoken in some provinces.
The Philippines is named after King Philip II of Spain and was a Spanish colony for over 300 years. The Spanish colony in the Philippines bought prosperity to the country. The Chinese exported goods such as silk, porcelain and lacquer to the Philippines and from there they were re-exported to Mexico. Spanish rule introduced western civilization to the islands. In 1762, the British captured Manila and later in 1764, handed it to them with the signing of the Treaty of Pari
In 1872, there was a rebellion and nationalist feeling grew helped by a writer named Jose Rizal. Jose started a movement called Liga Filipina, which called for reforms. He was accused of supporting the Propaganda Movement and executed on 30 December 1896. However, his execution only inflamed nationalist feelings and the revolution grew.
Then in 1898 there was a war between Spain and the US. On 30 April, 1898, the Americans defeated the Spanish fleet in Manila Bay. Meanwhile Filipino Rebels had surrounded Manila. Although it was declared independent, it was ceded to the USA. American rule in Manila proved benevolent in some ways. American teachers were sent to the Philippines and that increased literacy.
In 1935, Philippines became a commonwealth nation. However Japanese troops invaded and captured Manila in 1941. The Americans recaptured it in February 1945, and from then on its economy grew. Not only agriculture, even mining, manufacturing, tourism and services grew substancially. Today the Philippines is a member of the ADB, WTO, Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) and the G-77.
Culture
The culture of the Philippines is heavily influenced by Asian, Western and Hispanic cultures. The Spanish colonized the islands and after more than three centuries of colonization, Hispanic influence had impacted their culture. The Philippines being governed from both Mexico and Spain, has received a fair bit of Hispanic influence. Mexican and Spanish influence can be seen in dance and religion and the use of English language and pop culture is the western influence. Some Filipino beliefs have their base from Hinduism and to some extent Vajrayana Buddhism. Modern day Philippine music has styles such as Filipino rock and hip hop styles. In literature, food, dance and art Hispanic influence is evident. The Philippines is generally considered as a melting pot of the West and Asia. Major rituals are customary Christian or Muslim practices. There are religious processions such as a parade of the saints. All Saints Day, Easter and Chinese New Year are celebrated with gusto.
Education
Higher Education is governed by the CHED (Commission of Higher Education). Colleges mostly offer one or more specialized programs with English as a medium of instruction. Public Universities are funded by the government. Due to excellent infrastructure and facilities available, a number of students come from neighboring countries for Higher Education. There are also some universities which have been given Autonomous status. There are some universities such as University of Santo Tomas which have been ranked within top 500 best universities of the world. Low tuition rates coupled with a low cost of living makes Philippines an ideal destination. Its Medical courses are almost similar those in the USA. What attracts foreigners and several Asian students here is its easy admission process, hands on clinical exposure (for MBBS AND MD) courses, high success rate in USMLE and recognition from WHO, MCI, ECFMG and FAIMER.
There are also courses for dentistry, pharmacy, nursing, optometry, physiotherapy and Engineering. They are also popular among foreign students.
Along with excellent education and placement opportunities, Philippines has numerous parks, beaches, mountains, marine parks and tourist destinations that can leave one enthralled. The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River Park is one of the natural wonders of the world with amazing flora and fauna. There are several five star hotels, entertainment shows and cafes. Cliff jumping, kayaking and diving are some activities to indulge in. The coral reefs are a favorite tourist spot. Therefore the Philippines has much to offer for everyone. All this at reasonable rates.
Recently, to encourage more students to come to the Philippines, the government has introduced the ESL (English as a Second Language), Tour Program, in which English is taught the “fun” way, by getting students interact, practice and use English more often, thus developing an interest and learning it. Outdoor activities, excursions form a part of this structured tour package. In this way, they also get to see some of the most beautiful locations of the islands, while learning to express themselves in an appropriate manner. The duration of this course may vary from student to student depending on their needs and objectives. Participants can also choose from the 21 bi-authorized English language learning centers spread across the country.