Country Profile: Philippines
The Philippines is an archipelago located in Southeastern Asia, comprising over 7,600 islands and a total area of approximately 300,000 square kilometers. It has a population of around 118 million people and is characterized by a diverse economy, largely driven by the services, industry, and agriculture sectors. Governed as a presidential republic, the Philippines has faced historical challenges, including periods of colonization and authoritarian rule, but currently operates under a democratic system with a vibrant political landscape.
Geography
The Philippines is situated east of Vietnam, between the Philippine Sea and the South China Sea, with a total area of about 300,000 sq km. The country is predominantly mountainous with extensive coastal regions, contributing to its rich biodiversity. The climate is tropical marine, influenced by the northeast and southwest monsoons, and it is prone to natural disasters, including typhoons and earthquakes.
- 36,289 km of coastline
- 7,641 islands reported in 2016
- Highest point: Mount Apo at 2,954 m
People and Society
The Philippines has an estimated population of 118,277,063 in 2024, with a relatively young median age of 25.7 years. The society is predominantly Christian, with about 78.8% identifying as Roman Catholic, and significant ethnic diversity, including groups such as Tagalog, Bisaya, and Ilocano. Urbanization is increasing, with approximately 48.3% of the population living in urban areas.
- 98.5% literacy rate (2020)
- 22.1 births/1,000 population (2024)
- 5.6% elderly dependency ratio (2024)
Economy
The Philippine economy is projected to grow by 5.7% in 2024, supported by a recovery in electronics exports and significant remittances contributing to GDP. As of 2024, the real GDP (PPP) is estimated at $1.202 trillion, while the GDP per capita is approximately $10,400. The economy is predominantly service-oriented, with the services sector representing 63.2% of GDP.
- 2.2% unemployment rate (2024)
- 15.5% of the population below the poverty line (2023)
- $106.99 billion in exports (2024)
Government
The Philippines operates as a presidential republic with a mixed legal system comprised of civil, common, and Islamic law. The capital city, Manila, houses an elected president, Ferdinand "BongBong" Marcos Jr., who has been in office since June 30, 2022. The government structure includes a bicameral Congress, consisting of the Senate and the House of Representatives.
- Independence attained on July 4, 1946
- 81 provinces and 38 chartered cities
- 18 years minimum voting age
Military and Security
The Armed Forces of the Philippines are responsible for national defense, with approximately 145,000 active personnel as of 2025. The military faces various internal security challenges, including insurgencies from groups like the Abu Sayyaf and the New People's Army. Military expenditures are projected to be 1.7% of GDP in 2024.
- Military service age typically ranges from 18-27 years
- 44 ships in the naval capabilities
- Engages in joint operations with US military forces
Energy
In 2023, about 94.8% of the population had access to electricity, with a generating capacity of 29.174 million kW. The country relies heavily on fossil fuels for electricity generation, which constitutes 77.9% of its total installed capacity.
- 100.824 billion kWh of electricity consumed (2023)
- Coal production at 14.457 million metric tons (2023)
- Proven oil reserves estimated at 138.5 million barrels (2021)
Environment
The Philippines faces several environmental challenges, including deforestation, coral reef degradation, and increasing pollution in urban areas. The country is a party to various international environmental agreements aimed at addressing biodiversity, climate change, and sustainable resource management.
- 42.7% of land used for agriculture (2023)
- 156 million metric tons of CO2 emissions (2023)
- 14.632 million tons of municipal solid waste generated annually (2024)
Transportation
The Philippines has a diverse transportation infrastructure, including 256 airports and a merchant marine fleet comprising 2,203 vessels. It also has a railway system primarily focused in urbanized areas, with plans for expansion.
- 70 ports managed across the country (2024)
- 416 heliports (2025)
- 77 km of railways (last updated in 2017)
Communications
The communications sector in the Philippines has expanded significantly, with approximately 135 million mobile subscriptions reported in 2023. The internet penetration is high, with 84% of the population using the internet.
- 4.627 million fixed-line subscriptions (2023)
- 7.51 million fixed broadband subscriptions (2023)
- More than 400 TV stations available nationwide
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 118,277,063 | Estimated for 2024 |
| Area | 300,000 sq km | Total area |
| GDP (PPP) | $1.202 trillion | Estimated for 2024 |
| Unemployment Rate | 2.2% | Estimated for 2024 |
| Birth Rate | 22.1 births/1,000 | Estimated for 2024 |
| Literacy Rate | 98.5% | Total population (2020) |
| Life Expectancy at Birth | 70.8 years | Estimated for 2024 |
| Electricity Access | 94.8% | Total population (2022 est.) |
| Major Urban Areas Population | 14.667 million (Manila) | Data from 2023 |
| Environmental CO2 Emissions | 156.228 million metric tons | Estimated for 2023 |
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