About the Philippines

The Philippines is situated between the South China Sea, the Philippines Sea, and the Pacific Ocean. It is roughly the size of Italy, but with a scattered coastline of about 18,000 kilometres.

Agricultural methods vary from ancient practices to large-scale mechanisation, while manufacturing processes range from indigenous crafts to advanced technology.

However, despite significant industrial growth, the Philippines remains primarily an agricultural country, with over 70% of the people depending upon agriculture for their livelihood.

The main staple crops include rice, corn and kamote (sweet potato), while cash crops include coconuts, sugar, tobacco and abaca (a strong fibre).