The Philippines

The Philippines were ceded by Spain to the US in 1898 following the Spanish-American War. They attained their independence in 1946 after being occupied by the Japanese in world war ll. The 21 year rule of Ferdnand Marcos ended in 1986 when a widespread popular rebellion forced him into exile. In 1992, the US closed down its last military bases on the islands. The Philippines has had 2 electoral presidential transitions since Marcos' removed by '' people power'' . In January 2001, the Supreme Court declared Joseph Estrada unable to rule in view of mass resignations from his government and administered the oath of office to Vice President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo as his constitutional successor.

CLIMATE

March to May is hot and dry, with temperatures ranging from 22" to 32" C. June to October is rainy. November to February is cool temperatures range from 22" to 28"C. Average humidity year-round as 77%.

LANGUAGES

The national language is Pilipino, which is based on the language of Tagalog, although there are at least one or two dialects spoken in every region. English is both spoken and understood throughout the country, especially in business negotiations and in the government.

MONEY

Pilipino Peso.