Background:

The first inhabitants of the Philippines arrived up to 300,000 years ago, probably migrating over a land bridge from the Asian mainland. Ferdinand Magellan arrived in 1521 and claimed the archipelago for Spain. The Philippines were ceded by Spain to the US in 1898 following the Spanish-American War and became independent in 1946. The 21-year rule of Ferdinand Marcos ended in 1986 when a widespread popular rebellion forced him into exile and a democracy was established.  Culturally, modern day Filipinos have developed a mixed culture from the blending of foreign influences with native elements. Today, Filipino artists are creating  visual statements of Philippine national life with blends of Spanish, American and indigenous artistic influences. The use of mixed media, fiber, grass, paper, bamboo and organic materials make this art form easily acceptable to a broad range of audiences.

• Area: total: 300,000 sq km. water: 1,830 sq km , land: 298,170 sq km
• Borders: No land Borders
• Climate: tropical marine; northeast and southwest monsoon
• Terrain: mostly mountains with narrow to extensive coastal lowlands

• Population: 84,525,639
• Ethnic Groups: Christian Malay 91.5%, Muslim Malay 4%, Chinese 1.5%
• Religions: Roman Catholic 83%, Protestant 9%, Muslim 5%, Buddhist 3%

• Industries: textiles, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, wood products, food processing, electronics assembly, petroleum refining, fishing
• Imports: raw materials, capital goods, consumer goods, fuels
• Exports: electronic equipment, machinery and transport equipment, garments, coconut products

• National Commision for Culture and the Arts
• Manila Bulletin Online