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00:00Welcome to the Philippines, a land of breathtaking beauty, rich culture, and endless surprises.
00:08Imagine a country with over 7,600 islands, each holding its own secrets and wonders.
00:15From pristine beaches and towering volcanoes to vibrant traditions and fascinating history,
00:22the Philippines has something for everyone.
00:24In today's video, we're diving into some incredible wonders of this tropical paradise
00:30that will leave you amazed and maybe even packing your bags.
00:34So, sit back, relax, and let's explore the wonders of the Philippines like never before.
00:43Fun Facts About the Philippines
00:46The Philippines, a vibrant archipelago composed of over 7,641 islands,
00:53is a fascinating world of discovery.
00:56With only 2,000 of these islands inhabited,
01:00the nation offers an endless adventure for those daring to explore its vast and varied landscapes.
01:06The recent discovery of 534 islands in 2017 alone has added to the allure,
01:15emphasizing the country's dynamic terrain, which includes large rocks and expansive sandbars.
01:21For an adventure enthusiast, traversing every island could take a lifetime,
01:26specifically estimated at 21 years to complete this epic journey.
01:31Adding to its diverse cultural tapestry,
01:35the Philippines boasts the third largest Catholic population in the world,
01:39following Brazil and Mexico.
01:42Approximately 80% of Filipinos practice Roman Catholicism,
01:46which deeply influences the country's legal and cultural framework.
01:51Reflective of its religious dedication,
01:53the Philippines upholds laws that prohibit divorce and gay marriages,
01:58and considers abortion illegal,
02:01showcasing the profound impact of faith on daily life.
02:05Shopping is another aspect where the Philippines makes its mark globally.
02:09The country is home to five of the world's largest shopping malls,
02:14reflecting the locals' love for these sprawling commercial havens.
02:18Malls such as SM Seaside City Cebu,
02:21SM City North Edsa,
02:23SM Mega Mall,
02:24SM Mall of Asia,
02:26and SM City Cebu
02:28are not just shopping destinations,
02:30but also social hubs where people gather,
02:33socialize, and unwind.
02:35On a more somber note,
02:37the Philippines was the site of the world's largest volcanic eruption in the past 50 years.
02:42The catastrophic eruption of Mount Pinatubo on June 15, 1991,
02:48was a devastating event that affected thousands.
02:51The eruption released an enormous volume of volcanic ash
02:55that reached as far as the Indian Ocean
02:57and resulted in significant deposits of volcanic material across the valleys.
03:02Over 20,000 people were evacuated,
03:06800 lives were lost,
03:08and more than 10,000 were left homeless.
03:11The massive release of gases from the eruption
03:14also contributed to a global cooling effect,
03:17lowering the Earth's temperature by 0.5 degrees Celsius.
03:21These fascinating facts highlight the Philippines as a land of contrasts,
03:26where beauty and chaos coexist.
03:28The country offers a unique blend of natural wonder,
03:33cultural depth,
03:34and historical significance,
03:35making it a compelling destination for travelers and scholars alike.
03:40Whether exploring its myriad islands,
03:43experiencing its deep-rooted religious traditions,
03:46enjoying its vast shopping districts,
03:49or learning from its historical events,
03:52the Philippines promises a rich,
03:54diverse,
03:55and profoundly educational journey.
04:00Rice Terraces of Banaue
04:03Carved into the mountains of Ifugao in the Philippines
04:07by the Igorot people's ancestors,
04:09the Banaue Rice Terraces represent a stunning example
04:13of ancient ingenuity and cultural heritage.
04:17Often referred to as the Eighth Wonder of the World,
04:21these terraces exemplify a remarkable adaptation to the environment.
04:25Standing approximately 1,500 meters above sea level,
04:30they are nourished by an ancient irrigation system originating from the rainforests above.
04:36Despite being over 2,000 years old,
04:38a claim supported by anthropologist Otley Byer but debated by others,
04:43the terraces remain a vital part of the local culture.
04:46They are primarily utilized for growing rice,
04:49a crop that has been central to Filipino agricultural practices since as early as 1500 BCE.
04:56However, the allure of more profitable sectors like tourism
05:01is drawing the younger generation away from farming,
05:04posing challenges to the traditional ways of life and the maintenance of the terraces themselves.
05:09The local Ifugao community, deeply intertwined with these terraces,
05:15has managed them through centuries.
05:17Their society is built around rice cultivation,
05:20marked by festivities and rituals that celebrate various stages from planting to harvest.
05:25This relationship with rice is not just agricultural,
05:29but also a profound cultural linkage that includes the traditional use of bayah,
05:35rice wine, rice cakes, and betel nut during celebrations.
05:40Moreover, the Ifugao have harnessed their knowledge of organic farming,
05:45prohibiting genetically modified organisms in the terraces as of 2009.
05:50This commitment to sustainable practices extends to their traditional techniques of water irrigation,
05:56stonework, and terrace maintenance, passed down through generations.
06:02Tourism has become a significant part of the terraces' economy,
06:06offering visitors a glimpse into the cultural fabric of the Ifugao people
06:11and the architectural marvel of the terraces themselves.
06:15Despite not being recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site,
06:19due to the modern structures within the main sightseeing cluster,
06:24the Banaue rice terraces were declared a national cultural treasure by the Philippines in 1973.
06:31This ancient marvel not only showcases the enduring spirit of the Ifugao people,
06:36but also embodies a critical challenge of preserving cultural heritage
06:40while adapting to modern economic pressures.
06:45The Tubataha Reef
06:48Nestled in the Sulu Sea,
06:51the Tubataha Reef's natural park is a globally recognized marine sanctuary,
06:55featuring two vast atolls and the smaller Jesse Beasley Reef,
07:00stretching over 97,030 hectares.
07:04This UNESCO World Heritage Site is celebrated for its high density of marine species
07:09and serves as a vital nesting site for birds and marine turtles.
07:14The park's geography is as fascinating as its biodiversity.
07:18Located 150 kilometers southeast of Puerto Princesa, Palawan,
07:24it lies on the Cagayan Ridge, an extinct underwater volcano.
07:29According to the theory of Charles Darwin,
07:32the atolls formed around sinking volcanic islands,
07:35leaving behind the coral structures visible today.
07:38These reefs, true to Darwin's model,
07:42showcase a biodiversity that is crucial not only for environmental scientists,
07:47but also for conservation efforts.
07:50The Tubataha Reef's rich biodiversity includes over 600 fish species,
07:56360 coral types,
07:58and numerous species of sharks, dolphins, and whales,
08:02highlighting its role within the Coral Triangle,
08:05an area known as the Center of Marine Biodiversity.
08:09This site is particularly important for the breeding of endangered hawksbill and green sea turtles.
08:15Despite its ecological importance,
08:18Tubataha faces threats from overfishing and destructive fishing practices like cyanide and dynamite fishing,
08:26which have prompted strict conservation measures.
08:29Since 1988, when it was declared a national marine park,
08:33efforts have been intensified to protect this unique ecosystem.
08:37The park has since expanded to include Jesse Beasley Reef,
08:41and protection is enforced by a dedicated team of park rangers stationed at a ranger station on the North Atoll.
08:48The reefs are also a beacon for the global diving community,
08:52offering an unparalleled underwater experience.
08:56Its pristine coral walls, where shallow reefs abruptly end,
09:00give way to great depths, providing habitat for various marine species
09:05and making it one of the best dive sites in the world.
09:09The diving season attracts visitors from around the globe,
09:12especially during the calm seas from March to June.
09:16Management and protection efforts continue to evolve,
09:19including the recent plans for a new, modernized ranger station to combat illegal poaching
09:25and ensure the protection of Tubataha's diverse marine life.
09:29With recognition as a particularly sensitive sea area by the International Maritime Organization,
09:35Tubataha's future looks promising as a sanctuary for both wildlife and humanity,
09:41preserving its pristine condition for future generations.
09:50The Chocolate Hills are a geological formation located in the Bahal Province of the Philippines.
09:56This iconic site consists of at least 1260 hills, but the number could be as high as 1776,
10:06spread over more than 50 square kilometers.
10:08These hills are famous for their unusual shape and vibrant green color,
10:14which turns chocolate brown during the dry season, giving them their name.
10:18The Chocolate Hills are not only a major tourist destination, but also a symbol of Bohal's natural beauty,
10:25featured prominently in the provincial flag and seal.
10:29They are recognized by the Philippine Tourism Authority and have been declared the country's third national geological monument.
10:37Furthermore, efforts are underway to include them in the UNESCO World Heritage List
10:43due to their unique landscape and geological significance.
10:47Geologically, these hills are conical karst hills made up of limestone that dates back to the late Pliocene to the
10:54early Pleistocene era.
10:56The formation of these hills involves a complex process of limestone dissolution by rainfall,
11:03surface water, and groundwater, along with their sub-aerial erosion which shaped them into their current form.
11:10This type of karst topography is particularly rare, and scientifically valuable for studying both geological and environmental processes.
11:21Tourism plays a crucial role in the area, with developments at two of the hills that have been turned into
11:26resorts to accommodate and manage the influx of visitors.
11:29The main viewing spots are the government-owned Chocolate Hills Complex in Carmen and the privately-owned Sagbayan Peak, which
11:38offer spectacular views of the hills.
11:41Protected under the National Integrated Protected Areas System, the Chocolate Hills are managed by the Department of Environment and Natural
11:48Resources.
11:49This designation helps ensure that the hills are preserved against inappropriate exploitation and maintained for future generations to appreciate their
11:58natural beauty and geological uniqueness.
12:02Despite their protected status, the Chocolate Hills face challenges such as land-use conflicts and the pressures of tourism and
12:10development.
12:11Efforts continue to balance these with the need to preserve this extraordinary natural phenomenon.
12:19The Coron, officially known as the Municipality of Coron, is a breathtaking locale nestled in the province of Palawan, Philippines.
12:30With a population of 65,855 as of the 2020 census, it serves as the commercial capital of the Calamian
12:39Islands and boasts a rich history intertwined with natural beauty.
12:44Coron is celebrated for its stunning geographical features, including its position on the eastern part of Buswanga Island, the entirety
12:53of Coron Island, and about 50 other minor islets.
12:58These islands form part of the expansive Calamian Archipelago in northern Palawan, which acts as a natural divide between the
13:06South China Sea and the Sulu Sea.
13:08The region is not only a hub of vibrant biodiversity, but also holds significant historical value, being the site of
13:16several Japanese shipwrecks from World War II.
13:19These wrecks have made Coron a premier destination for wreck diving enthusiasts, offering an underwater adventure among sunken ships now
13:27teeming with marine life.
13:28The diving sites vary in depth, making them accessible for divers with different levels of experience.
13:36Ecologically, Coron is part of the ancestral domain of the indigenous Tagbanwa people, officially recognized in 1998.
13:45The island features a rugged terrain with 15 lakes, some of which have underground connections to the sea, and a
13:53variety of mangroves lining the coastal areas.
13:56The natural biotic area of Coron Island is so unique that it has been listed in the natural category of
14:03the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List, underscoring its global ecological and cultural significance.
14:10Coron's annual fiesta, held every August 28th in honor of St. Augustine, highlights its rich cultural heritage and community spirit.
14:21As a travel destination, Coron offers not just diving but also snorkeling opportunities around its rock formations and renowned sites
14:30like Gunter's Cave or Cathedral Cave, where natural light creates spectacular effects inside the cave.
14:38Through its blend of natural wonders, historical depth, and cultural richness, Coron stands as a testament to the enduring beauty
14:46and resilience of Palawan.
14:50Tal Volcano
14:53The Tal Volcano is an imposing geological formation located in the province of Batangas, just 50 kilometers south of Manila,
15:02Philippines.
15:03Renowned for its high activity level, it is the second most active volcano in the country, boasting 38 recorded historical
15:12eruptions.
15:12These eruptions have all occurred on Volcano Island, which is centrally situated within Tal Lake.
15:19The caldera housing Tal Lake and volcano was formed by massive eruptions between 140,000 and 5,380 years before
15:29present.
15:30Tayal Volcano's historical eruptions have been catastrophic, leading to a death toll of about 6,000 people.
15:38The volcano's proximity to densely populated areas has earned it the status of a decade volcano, identifying it as worthy
15:47of special study to mitigate natural disasters.
15:49Additionally, the site was declared a national geological monument in 1998 and recognized as a national park in 2018.
16:00Geographically, Tal Volcano is part of a volcanic chain along the western edge of Luzon, created by the subduction of
16:09the Eurasian Plate beneath the Philippine Mobile Belt.
16:12The volcanic activity at Tayal has significantly shaped the landscape over thousands of years, creating the current caldera and the
16:21volcanic island within it.
16:23Tayal Lake itself is notable for containing Vulcan Point, a small rocky outcrop that was once the world's largest island
16:31within a lake on an island within a lake.
16:34Despite the beauty and allure of Taal Volcano, it remains a dangerous place.
16:40The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology has permanently declared Volcano Island a high-risk area and a permanent danger
16:50zone, strictly prohibiting permanent settlement.
16:53However, some families continue to live on the island, risking their lives by farming the fertile volcanic soil and fishing
17:03in the surrounding waters.
17:04The recent history of Tal Volcano includes a devastating wildfire in May 2024, leading to the declaration of Volcano Island
17:13as a no-man's land by the Batangas governor due to the severe damage.
17:18Furthermore, the 1911 eruption stands as one of the most violent, with ash affecting areas as far as Manila and
17:27causing significant loss of life and destruction.
17:31Today, Tal Volcano remains under close watch by scientists and authorities due to its active nature and the potential threat
17:39it poses to nearby populations.
17:41Its majestic appearance and natural setting continue to attract tourists and researchers alike, drawn by its unique geological and ecological
17:51characteristics.
17:55The underground river of Puerto Princesa, nestled in the St. Paul mountain range on the western coast of Palawan Philippines,
18:04is a marvel of nature.
18:06Officially known as the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, this site covers an area within 80 kilometers north of
18:15Puerto Princesa City.
18:17Managed by the city government since 1992, this park is not only a protected area, but also a piece of
18:24the region's natural heritage, recognized globally for its ecological significance.
18:31Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 and voted as a new Seven Wonders of Nature in 2012, the
18:40park is renowned for housing the Puerto Princesa Underground River.
18:44This subterranean river claims fame for being one of the longest navigable underground rivers in the world, stretching over 8
18:52.2 kilometers with sections influenced by tidal effects and flowing directly into the South China Sea.
18:59Exploration within the park in 2010 revealed a second floor in the cave system, suggesting the presence of minor waterfalls,
19:08a 300-meter-high cave dome above the river, and various complex rock formations and deeper water holes.
19:15These features hint at the rich biodiversity and complex hydrological system preserved within the park.
19:22The underground river wanes through massive caves before merging with the sea.
19:27These caves are home to significant formations of stalactites and stalagmites, and several large chambers, such as the Italian Chamber,
19:36known as one of the largest cave rooms in the world.
19:39The park serves as a crucial habitat for biodiversity conservation, housing a full mountain-to-the-sea ecosystem, and supporting
19:48one of the most important forests in Asia.
19:51Flora in the park include more than 800 plant species spanning across various types of forests, from lowland tropical rainforest
20:00to mangrove forests.
20:01The faunal species are just as diverse, with notable inhabitants including the blue-naped parrot, the palawan hornbill, and various
20:11species of bats that dwell in the cave system.
20:14The park's coastal area provides a habitat for marine species such as the sea cow and the hawksbill sea turtle.
20:21In recognition of its beauty and ecological importance, the underground river of Puerto Princesa has attracted significant international attention and
20:32tourism, making it a major destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
20:38The park's management practices aim to balance conservation with tourism, ensuring that this natural wonder is preserved for future generations
20:47while contributing to local and national economic development.
20:54The Mayon Volcano, also known as Mount Mayon, is a prominent active stratovolcano located in the province of Albay in
21:03Bicol, Philippines.
21:05Known for its nearly perfect symmetrical cone shape, Mayon is not only a popular tourist attraction, but also holds a
21:13sacred place in Philippine mythology.
21:15Rising 2,463 meters above sea level and just about 10 kilometers from the Albay Gulf, Mayon is the most
21:27active volcano in the Philippines, with 38 recorded historical eruptions.
21:33These eruptions have primarily occurred around the volcano's summit, close to the communities that spread around its base.
21:40The volcano and its surrounding landscape were declared a national park on July 20, 1938, making it the nation's first.
21:50In 2000, it was reclassified and named the Mayon Volcano Natural Park, and later became the centerpiece of the Albay
21:58Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 2016.
22:02Mayon's geology is characterized by its classic stratovolcano structure with a small central summit crater.
22:09The volcano is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire and sits on the southeast side of Luzon, at the
22:15converging point of the Philippine Trench and the Bicol Arc.
22:19This area is known for its volcanic activity due to the subduction of the Philippine Plate beneath the Eurasian Plate.
22:26Mayon itself is composed mainly of andesite and basalt rock and is infamous for its violent eruptions which produce pyroclastic
22:35flows, ash deposits, and lahars that have repeatedly threatened nearby towns.
22:41The most catastrophic eruption in recent history occurred in 1814, burying the town of Cagsawa and reportedly killing over 1
22:51,200 people.
22:53Only the belfry of the Cagsawa Church remains today, serving as a stark reminder of the volcano's destructive power.
23:02Other significant eruptions include those in 1881 to 1882, 1897, and more recently in 1984 and 1993, each uniquely contributing
23:16to the landscape and lore surrounding the volcano.
23:18The area around Mayon is rich in biodiversity.
23:23The park is home to a variety of endemic and migratory birds, several species of mammals, and diverse plant life
23:31that thrives in its tropical climate.
23:33This ecological richness adds another layer of importance to the conservation efforts in place to protect and study this dynamic
23:42natural monument.
23:47Barakai, a small resort island in the western Visayas region of the Philippines, stands out for its pristine white sand
23:55beaches and vibrant nightlife, making it one of the world's top destinations for relaxation and entertainment.
24:03Located just 0.8 kilometers off the northwest coast of Panay Island, Barakai spans a total land area of 10
24:12.32 square kilometers and is managed by the jurisdiction of three barangais in Malay and Aklan.
24:20Historically, Barakai was inhabited by the Panay Bukidnon and Ati people.
24:25However, since the 1970s, commercial development has significantly marginalized the original inhabitants.
24:33Despite these changes, the island has gained international recognition for its beauty and hospitality.
24:39It was named the best island in the world by Travel Plus Leisure in 2012 and topped the best islands
24:47in the world list by Conde Nast Traveler in 2014.
24:51The island's geography includes the famed White Beach, known for its stunning four-kilometer stretch of powdery white sand against
25:00the backdrop of azure waters.
25:02Barakai is not just about leisure, it also hosts the Barakai Atitan festival, celebrating the cultural heritage of the Ati
25:12indigenous people and attracting tens of thousands of tourists annually.
25:16In response to environmental concerns, the Philippine government, under President Rodrigo Duterte, temporarily closed the island to tourists in April
25:262018 for six months to undertake major renovations, particularly to the sewage system.
25:34This closure was part of a broader effort to preserve the island's natural beauty and sustainability.
25:40The island reopened in October 2018 with new rules to curb environmental degradation, including restrictions on business operations and tourist
25:51activities, to ensure a balance between tourism and ecological preservation.
25:57The rejuvenation efforts in Barakai reflect a commitment to sustainable development, preserving its natural environment while continuing to welcome tourists
26:07from around the world.
26:08This balance aims to ensure that Barakai remains a top global destination for both its scenic beauty and cultural significance.
26:17The Hinatuan Enchanted River, also known as the Hinatuan Sacred River, is a mysteriously deep spring river located on the
26:27island of Mindanao in the Philippines.
26:29Flowing into the Philippines, flowing into the Pacific Ocean and the Pacific Ocean at Barangay Talisay, Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur,
26:37the river is famed for its strikingly clear blue waters which seem to come from nowhere.
26:42This enchanting river is nestled between the boundaries of Barangay Talisay and Cambatong, and is surrounded by a rich folklore
26:52that adds to its mystique.
26:54Dubbed enchanted by diplomat Modesto Farolan, who immortalized it in his poem, Rio Encantado, the river has captivated both locals
27:03and tourists with its otherworldly beauty.
27:06The name reflects the local legends and the mesmerizing, almost supernatural clarity and hue of its waters, which locals say
27:15are mixed by fairies with shades of sapphire and jade.
27:18The mouth of the Hinatuan River serves as a habitat for various species of turtles and offers a safe anchorage
27:26against storms and typhoons, highlighting its importance to both the local ecology and the community.
27:32The river's allure is not just in its beauty, but also in its uncharted depths, which have been the focus
27:40of various explorations since the first was undertaken by Alex Santos in 1999.
27:45A significant exploration occurred in February 2010, led by Dr. Alfonso Amores along with team members Bernil Gastardo and MG
27:56Guillermo.
27:57This exploration led to the discovery of a hidden cave opening at a depth of 30 meters.
28:03Unfortunately, the exploration also saw tragedy when Dr. Amores passed away during an expedition in 2014 due to a cardiac
28:14arrest inside the cave system.
28:16Despite these challenges, explorations have continued, with efforts focusing on understanding the extensive and still partially unexplored cave system that
28:27feeds the river.
28:28These explorations have been supported by collaborations between local universities, government bodies, and diving groups, aiming to map and assess
28:38the underwater cave system for scientific and ecological purposes.
28:43Legends about the river abound, with stories of incantos and unfishable, mystical fish that add to the mystique of the
28:52Hinatuan Enchanted River.
28:54These tales, passed down through generations, contribute to the river's status as a significant cultural and natural landmark, encapsulating the
29:04unique blend of natural beauty and folklore that characterizes many of the Philippines' most treasured sites.
29:12El Nido, nestled in the province of Palawan, Philippines.
29:19This picturesque locale covers an area of 465.1 square kilometers and is located about 420 kilometers southwest of Manila.
29:30Renowned for its dramatic limestone cliffs, stunning white sand beaches, and vibrant coral reefs, this area serves as the gateway
29:40to the Bakuit Archipelago, a group of islands with unique geological formations and diverse ecosystems.
29:47The area has been inhabited since at least 2680 BC, and possibly as early as 22,000 years ago.
29:57Historically known as Bakuit, it was frequented by Chinese traders during the Song Dynasty for its edible birds' nests, highly
30:06prized and valued.
30:07These nests, known as Nido in Spanish, from which the municipality derives its current name, are still harvested from the
30:16limestone cliffs today.
30:17The region's rich history includes periods under Spanish rule and as part of the municipality of Tete.
30:25In 1954, the town was officially renamed after the edible nests of swiftlets found in the crevices of its limestone
30:33cliffs.
30:33These nests, the main ingredient for the gourmet nido soup, are being sold at approximately US$3,000 per kilogram.
30:44Geographically, it is bordered by the Linna Pecan Strait, the Sulu Sea, and the South China Sea, making it one
30:51of the most biodiverse areas in the Philippines.
30:54It is renowned for its towering limestone cliffs, which are similar to those found in Ha Long Bay, Vietnam, and
31:02Ghilin, China, indicating a shared geological history as part of the Sunda Plate,
31:08including 45 islands and islets, each offering unique scenic beauty and an abundance of wildlife.
31:15Kadlau Island, the highest peak, rises up to 640 meters above sea level.
31:22The area is part of a complex marine ecosystem that supports a variety of species, from the smallest fishes to
31:30the largest marine mammals like dugongs.
31:33Tourism has been carefully managed to preserve its natural landscapes and rich biodiversity.
31:39Efforts are continually made to maintain a balance between development and conservation, ensuring that it remains a premier destination for
31:48ecotourists and nature lovers from around the world.
31:52It exemplifies the beauty of the Philippines' natural heritage, with its clear waters, lush forests, and stunning geological formations making
32:02it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
32:11Thanks for joining us on this journey through the Philippines.
32:14We hope this video gave you a new appreciation for this incredible country.
32:19If you enjoyed the video, don't forget to like and subscribe for more amazing stories and discoveries.
32:27See you in the next one!
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