The Philippines, an archipelago of 7,641 islands, is a treasure trove of rich natural resources and breathtaking wonders: picture-perfect beaches, majestic mountains, stunning islands, and rich biodiversity. Beyond its natural beauty, the country is known for something just as memorable; the warmth and hospitality of its people, a quality that makes every visit feel like home.
Ten years after hosting the ASEAN Tourism Forum, the Philippines welcomes the event once again, this time in Cebu.
Cebu, the “Queen City of the South”, is renowned for its historical landmarks, scenic landscapes and seascapes, and thrilling underwater adventures. As the host city of the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2026, Cebu brings together its rich heritage, strong tourism infrastructure, and strategic location in the Visayas region to welcome delegates from across the region.
| Capital | Manila |
|---|---|
| Oldest City | Cebu City |
| Timezone | GMT plus 8 hours |
| Land Area | 300,000 square kilometers |
| Coastline | 36,289km1 |
| Population | 112,729,484 as of July 1, 20242 |
| Island Groups | The archipelago is grouped into three major islands: Luzon (north), Visayas (central), and Mindanao (south) |
| Language | Filipino is the national language, while English is widely spoken. Nearly half of Filipino adults (47%)3 consider themselves competent in English, making the Philippines a highly accessible destination for international travelers. |
| Biodiversity hotspot | The country lies within the Coral Triangle and boasts some of the world’s richest marine biodiversity. |
| Currency | Philippine Peso (PHP).International credit cards such as Visa, Diners Club, BankAmericard, Master Card, and American Express are accepted in major establishments. Meanwhile, remote or smaller islands are usually cash based. Climate: The Philippines has a tropical climate with two main seasons: a dry season (roughly November to April) and a wet season (May to October), influenced by the northeast and southwest monsoons, respectively. |
| Best Time to Visit | Dry Season (roughly November to April) |
| How to Get There | Fly into Manila, Cebu, or Clark, the country’s main international gateways, and connect easily to popular island destinations by air or ferry. |
