============================== PHILIPPINES ============================== The Philippines comprise a group of mountainous islands, in the western Pacific, which are scattered over a great area. Earthquakes are common. The climate is humid, with high temperatures and heavy rainfall. Typhoons are frequent. Rice and maize are the main subsistence crops, and coconuts, sugar cane, pineapples and bananas are grown for export. Copper is a major export, and industries include textiles, food processing, chemicals and electrical engineering. Area (Sq. Km.): 300,000 Population: 62,446,000 Capital: Manila Language: Pilipino English Religion: Roman Catholic 83% Protestants 9% Moslems 7% Government Type: Republic Currency: Philippine peso Embassy: 9a Palace Green London W8 4QE 0171-937-1600 Time: GMT+8 Electricity: 220 volts All major credit cards are accepted. AIR TRAVEL: The Phillipines is geographically made up of an incredible 7107 islands and air transport is a good way of getting between them. The main airport is of course Manila and Philippine Airlines operate a large domestic network. There are daily flights from London to Manila. Journey time is approx 18 hours. SEA: Manila is a major seaport and many cruise lines call there as a stop off. HOTELS: Manila boasts over 10,000 First class rooms and has some truly excellent hotels. Paying in US$ often brings a better room rate! AREA The three main islands of the group are Luzon, the Visayas and Mindanao. Seas are tropical warm and excellent for swimming, water sports and diving. Planes can be chartered to visit some the more remote islands. Climate: Tropical climate tempered by sea breezes. There are three distinct seasons: Rainy - July to October Cool and dry - November to February Hot and dry - March to June Sports: Golf is very popular Water sports boating tennis Hunting and fishing Basketball American baseball Sipa (local game) British tour operators: BA Worldwide Holidays Kuoni «»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«» Foreign Office Advice: This is one of the world's most disaster-prone countries. Earthquakes and volcanic eruptions can occur at any time. Typhoons strike between July and November. Criminal and political violence is a serious problem in remoter parts of North Luzon, the Visayas and Mindanao. In Mandanao there have been attacks on public places. 10 km volcanic danger zones are in force around Mount Pinatubo and Mount Mayon. During June to December there is also the danger of Lahar (mud/volcanic debris) in these areas. Visitors should avoid travel off the beaten track. This year's cholera outbreak is worse than usual. For more information ring: Foreign Office Travel Unit 0171-270-4129