List of countries in the world. Facts and information

The Philippines is a place where ancient superstitions and customs are still alive. Filipinos believe in many omens and superstitions that affect their daily lives. For example, many still think you should not sweep the floor at night, as this sweeps away good luck, or black cats bring bad luck. Superstitions here are passed down from generation to generation and are often associated with religious beliefs, nature, and ancestors. If you are interested in learning more about the traditions and customs of the Filipinos, be sure to read our article on this topic at the link.

Filipinos are known for their incredible resilience and optimism. Even though the country often suffers from natural disasters - typhoons, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions - residents remain incredibly cheerful and full of energy. Even in difficult times, they continue to smile, support each other, and look for reasons to be happy. It is this resilience and cheerfulness that makes Filipinos famous throughout the world.

In the country, you often hear, Karaoke is life. And this is not an exaggeration! Filipinos love to sing karaoke, and they do it almost any day and for any reason, be it a family celebration, a get-together with friends, or even just an evening after work. Karaoke is not just entertainment here; it is part of the culture, a way of self-expression and fun communication. The love for singing in the Philippines is so great that you can find karaoke bars in every neighborhood, and home karaoke systems are found in almost every home. You can even hear someone singing on the street or the beach! It is not just a popular hobby - it is a national passion. It is no wonder that the Philippines has given the world many talented, world-class singers, such as Charice or Lea Salonga. Many started their careers with karaoke and continue to inspire the next generation of Filipinos with their talent.

The Philippines is recognized for its resilient spirit. Many Filipinos, especially in healthcare, pursue opportunities abroad due to limited local jobs. The country is the largest supplier of trained nurses and caregivers, with millions working in the U.S., Canada, Europe, and the Middle East. Their dedication to caring for the sick and elderly inspires those around them.

The country, consisting of 7,641 islands, is rich in biodiversity and culture. From the beaches of Boracay to the rice terraces of Banaue, each island offers a unique experience. The country has diverse ecosystems, including tropical forests and vibrant marine reefs, highlighting its ecological richness.

The world's largest shoe pair was made in Marikina, Philippines 2002. The wingtips measured approximately 5.3 m (18 ft) long, 2.4 m (8 ft) wide, and nearly 2 m (6 ft) high.

The Philippines is named after King Felipe II of Spain. Explorer Ruy Lopez de Villalobos first named the Eastern Visayas the Philippines, which later applied to the entire archipelago. The official name of the country is the Republic of the Philippines.

The largest pearl in the world, discovered by a Filipino diver in the Palawan Sea in 1934, is known as the Pearl of Lao Tzu or the Pearl of Allah. Weighing 6.35 kg and measuring 23.8 cm in diameter, it is valued at over $40 million. It is believed that it is 600 years old.

The country is the biggest exporter of coconuts and tropical fruits like papaya and mangosteen worldwide.

Some locals are wary of the number 13 and avoid having 13 people at a table. Additionally, the steps to the main entrance of a home should not fall on a number that is a multiple of three. Superstitious Filipinos will not travel or swim on Maundy Thursday or Good Friday during Holy Week, the week before Easter.

Mount Pinatubo on Luzon, Philippines, erupted on June 15, 1991, creating a vast mushroom-like cloud. The eruption released 10 billion metric tons of magma and 20 million tons of sulfur dioxide into the stratosphere.

The Philippine Eagle, also known as the Monkey Eagle, is the national bird of the Philippines and the largest eagle species in the world. Declared the national symbol in 1995, it stands up to 1 meter (3.3 feet) tall with a wingspan of nearly 2 meters (6.6 feet). This critically endangered species has only about 180 to 500 individuals left, and killing one is punishable by 12 years in prison and a heavy fine.

Among the sailors of the merchant fleets of all countries, there are the most Filipinos. This profession is so popular with them, as it allows them to earn good money and help relatives who remain at home. In addition, Filipinos are natural-born sailors.

The Philippines owns more than seven and a half thousand islands, and about five thousand of them do not have permanent inhabitants or even names.

The Philippines is the only country in the world that is subject to all natural disasters. Typhoons, volcanic eruptions, tsunamis, and earthquakes are common here (see facts about earthquakes).

At the beginning of the last century, the Philippines fought with the United States.

Due to the danger of tsunamis, local residents prefer not to settle directly on the coast. At the same time, however, luxury housing here is sometimes located on the fertile slopes of volcanoes that last erupted less than a hundred years ago.

The largest crocodile in the world was caught in the Philippines. The hunt for it began when the media reported on a giant beast attacking local residents.

Armed police officers are on duty in most banks and large stores in the Philippines.

Banana leaves are often used in the Philippines as disposable plates.