Background
History
The Philippines were occupied by Japan in WWII, and released by them in 1945. The Philippines got their independence from the U.S. a year later, and Manuel Roxas became their president. The U.S. continued to supply the Philippines aid for a few years, until a group known as the Huk guerrillas tried to take over. They were eventually driven out by 1954. From then on, the Philippine's government tried to gain some of its territories from the U.S. and improve its citizens' quality of life. In 1969, communists tried to take over. The president of the time, Ferdinand Marcos, set martial law three years later and maintained it until 1983. However, by the time the communists were defeated, Ferdinand Marcos rule had become increasingly corrupt. He assassinated his rival Benigno Aquino, which tarred his name. The same day of Marcos's inauguration in 1986, Aquino's widow assumed power. She was a weak leader and succeeded by more weak leaders, each trying to make reforms until today.
Culture
LanguagesThe Philippines official languages are Filipino and English. However, there are many dialects of Filipino such as Tagalog and Cebuano. Spanish is spoken as well.
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ReligionThey are 83% Catholic, 5% Muslim, 8% other Christian, and 4% other.
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Food
Attractions
Exspenses
Hotels: Rooms cost between $2 and $30 depending on the quality you're looking for.
Food: Street food can cost between $1 and $4. More expensive sit down restaurants charge around $4 to $15 per meal.
Travel: The metro and buses can cost between 20 and 50 cents per ride. Longer bus rides that travel between cities can charge around $10 and $20.
Food: Street food can cost between $1 and $4. More expensive sit down restaurants charge around $4 to $15 per meal.
Travel: The metro and buses can cost between 20 and 50 cents per ride. Longer bus rides that travel between cities can charge around $10 and $20.