Hello ladies and gents this is the Viking telling you that today we are talking about
Philippines
You probably already know about the Philippines’ abundance of islands, pristine beaches, breathtaking mountains, gorgeous diving spots and jaw-dropping lagoons. However, if you want to learn more about the Pearl of the Orient Seas, you’re in the right place. From popular culture to national quirks, discover 12 things about the Philippines you might not have known before.
1. English is more widely spoken than you think.
More people speak English in the Philippines (52 million speakers) than in Australia (26 million). Only the United States, India, Pakistan, and the UK boast more English speakers than the Philippines. On a related note, English is the only language that has more non-native speakers than native ones.
2. Speaking of languages…
…there are between 120 to 187 languages in use in the Philippines, including Tagalog, Cebuano and Ilocano. While native dialects are used for communication across the country and in popular culture, the government and school system operate primarily in English.
3. More than just bricks and mortar.
Manila City Hall is shaped like a coffin with a cross on it when viewed from the top. Helicopter ride, anyone?
On the subject of buildings, “The Ruins” in Bacolod is considered the Taj Mahal of the Philippines. Don Mariano built the mansion in honour of his beloved wife, Maria. As proof of his unwavering love for her, he had their initials moulded on every column inside the mansion. Now that’s a lot of Ms.
4. Be wary of inverted Filipino flags.
When the Filipino flag is upside down, i.e. the red stripe above the blue one, it means the country is at war. Interestingly, in 2010, The U.S. Government had to apologise for displaying an inverted Philippine flag in a meeting hosted by President Barack Obama that was attended by President Benigno Aquino III. So if you’re ever in the Philippines and spot an inverted flag, take cover.
Did you know? The first-ever Filipino flag was sewn in Hong Kong. Delfina Herbosa de Natividad, a niece of Dr Jose Rizal, and mother/daughter team Marcela and Lorenza Agoncillo are credited with the historic feat.
5. Camiguin is a hotspot for volcanoes
In the Island province of Camiguin, the number of volcanoes (seven) exceeds towns (five). Not surprisingly, the island has the most volcanoes per square kilometre in the world. However, all seven volcanoes have remained dormant since the 1950s. Phew.
And as always have a chilled day from the Viking
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