An unforgettable and unique archipelago, the Philippines stands out in Southeast Asia for its active volcanoes, extensive coastlines, and friendly people.
Map of the Philippines
Key geography facts
1. The Philippines is an archipelago with over 7,100 islands, but two-thirds are uninhabited.
2. The Philippines can be divided into three main regions: Luzon, the largest island in the north; Mindanao, the second-largest island in the south, and the Visayas, which are a group of islands.
3. The country has 11 major islands, which cover about 95% of the total land area. Aside from Luzon and Mindanao, the Philippines is also home to Samar, Negros, Palawan, Panay, Mindoro, Leyte, Cebu, Bohol, and Masbate.
4. The Philippines has about 50 volcanoes and sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it one of the most geologically active regions on Earth.
5. The country’s highest peak, Mount Apo, is located in Mindanao and reaches 9,692 feet (2,954 meters).
6. The Philippines experiences numerous typhoons each year, with around 20 tropical cyclones entering the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) each year.
7. The Philippines experiences hot and humid weather all year round due to its proximity to the equator.
Recommended reading: Fun Facts About The Philippines
The Philippines regions
The Philippines is divided into 18 administrative divisions:
Luxon
- National Capital Region (NCR)
- Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR)
- Ilocos Region (Region I)
- Cagayan Valley (Region II)
- Central Luzon (Region III)
- Calabarzon (Region IV-A)
- Mimaropa (Region IV-B)
- Bicol Region (Region V)
Visayas
- Western Visayas (Region VI)
- Negros Island Region (NIR)
- Central Visayas (Region VII)
- Eastern Visayas (Region VIII)
Mindanao
- Zamboanga Peninsula (Region IX)
- Northern Mindanao (Region X)
- Davao Region (Region XI)
- Soccsksargen (Region XII)
- Caraga (Region XIII)
- Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM)
Autonomous regions
The BARMM is the only autonomous region with its own government. It consists of five predominantly Muslim provinces.
- Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM)
Map of the Philippines in Southeast Asia
The Philippines with its neighbors: Taiwan, China, Indonesia, Vietnam and Malaysia.
The Philippines major cities
Quezon City – The most populous city in Metro Manila, known for its government offices and entertainment industry and media.
Manila – The capital city of the Philippines, known for its historical sites, vibrant nightlife, and as the political and economic center of the country.
Davao City – the “Crown Jewel of Mindanao”, recognized for its progressive economy, small ports and natural wonders.
Caloocan – Located in Metro Manila, known for its historical significance and rapid urban development.
Zamboanga City – A key port city in Mindanao, known for its cultural diversity, culinary scene and historical landmarks.
Cebu City – Known as the “Queen City of the South,” it is a major center for trade, commerce, and education in the central Visayas region.
Antipolo – Located in the hills in the eastern part of Metro Manila, it is known for its scenic views and residential areas and as a Catholic pilgrimage site.
Taguig – Once a fishing community, Taguig is a growing city in Metro Manila, known for its modern business districts, upscale residential areas, and the Bonifacio Global City (BGC) area.
Pasig – Part of Metro Manila, known for its environment-friendly initiatives, commercial centers and as an important business and residential district.
Cagayan de Oro – A major city in northern Mindanao often called the “City of Golden Friendship”. It is known for its fast-growing economy, business trade, and as a hub for adventure tourism, particularly white water rafting or kayaking adventures.
Other major cities in the Philippines: Angeles City, Bacolod, Bacoor, Bago, Baguio, Baliwag, Batangas City, Biñan, Butuan, Cabanatuan, Cabuyao, Calamba, Calbayog, Cotabato City, Dagupan, Dasmariñas, Digos, General Santos, General Trias, Iloilo City, Imus, Lapu-Lapu City, Kabankalan, Kidapawan, Koronadal, Las Piñas, Legazpi, Lipa, Lucena, Iligan, Mabalacat, Makati, Malabon, Malaybalay, Malolos, Mandaluyong, Mandaue, Marawi, Marikina, Meycauayan, Muntinlupa, Naga, Navotas, Olongapo, Ormoc, Pagadian, Panabo, Parañaque, Pasay, Puerto Princesa, Roxas, San Carlos, San Fernando, Samal, San Jose del Monte, San Pablo, San Pedro, Santa Rosa, Santo Tomas, Sorsogon City, Surigao City, Tacloban, Tagum, Talisay, Tanauan, Tarlac City, Toledo, Trece Martires, Tuguegarao, Valencia, Valenzuela,
Caitriona Maria is an education writer and owner of The Facts Institute. A teacher for seven years, she has been committed to providing students with the best learning opportunities possible, both domestically and abroad. Dedicated to unlocking students' potential, Caitriona has taught English in several countries and continues to explore new cultures through her travels.