One of the main focal points of battles between Japan and the US during World War II, at the end of that war (in 1946) with the US victory in the South Pacific, the Philippines attained total independence.

The dictatorial government of Ferdinand MARCOS ended in 1986, and since then, a long parade of electoral presidential problems and internal struggles have continued.

In addition, Abu Sayyaf, an armed Muslim insurgency group operating in the south, has collectively plagued the country for many years, and is now causing serious disruptions, especially in western tourism visits.

In 1992, after many years of negotiations, the US finally closed its last military bases on the islands, and in the view of many, the Philippines lost much needed revenue from that action.

And speaking of problems, the Philippines has one of the highest rates of deforestation in the world. At the current rate of deforestation it's been estimated that the country’s virgin forests are in danger of disappearing by 2010.

Tourism has never been a major industry in the Philippines, although Manila, beaches and resorts on some of the smaller islands, as well as rain forest tours remain popular.

Climate

The Philippines are very warm and humid throughout the year, and all are subject to seasonal monsoon rains (May - October) and (November - February)

Annual rainfall is heavy but varies widely. The greatest amounts fall along the mountainous east coasts of Luzon, Samar, and the northern tip of Mindanao.

The Philippines (especially the eastern coasts of Luzon and Samar) are subject to typhoons (July - October), and on average, 5 may cause significant destruction.

Between March and May, hot, dry weather prevails across the islands, with high humidity levels.

Temperatures in Manila range from 70° F to 90° F, with an average annual temperature of 80° F.

Attractions

On one side of the coin, the terrorist threat to American citizens in the Philippines remains high and the US State Department warns against all but essential travel to the Philippines. The U.S. Embassy continues to receive reports of ongoing activities and of multiple planned attacks throughout the Philippines by known terrorist groups. All western travelers should consider the risks of travel to the Philippines.

On the positive side, this lush tropical country is replete with fascinating landscapes, active volcanoes, splendid beaches, coral waters and tropical rain forests. In addition, transportation between islands is very affordable, and for the most part, functional.

(Not to be missed) is the frantic pace of Manila's nitelife, its many museums, and World War II markers; the incredible Banaue rice terraces; the world-famous White Beach on Boracay Island, widely considered the most beautiful tropical beach in the world; Cebu and Palawan islands, and their world class diving spots; the white beaches of Mindoro Island; the Taal Volcano and its volcanic lake, and the Spanish-Chinese colonial structures of Vigan in Ilocos - to truly only name but a few.

Add to that mix the indigenous colorful festivals that cover the calendar, and the smiling and welcoming Filipino people, and well, the Philippines are waiting. Click here Philippine Islands Map