23 May 2013 Last updated at 05:22 ET

Philippines profile

Penitent attached to a cross during the reenactment of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ on Good Friday in the village of Cutud, north of Manila, on 6 April 2012 Good Friday reenactment of the crucifixion near Manila: The Catholic faith plays a major role in large parts of the Philippines
  • Full name: Republic of the Philippines
  • Population: 96.5 million (UN, 2012)
  • Capital: Manila
  • Area: 300,000 sq km (115,831 sq miles)
  • Major languages: Filipino, English (both official)
  • Major religions: Catholic Christianity, Islam
  • Life expectancy: 66 years (men), 73 years (women) (UN)
  • Monetary unit: 1 Philippine peso = 100 centavos
  • Main exports: Electrical machinery, clothing, food and live animals, chemicals, timber products
  • GNI per capita: US $2,210 (World Bank, 2011)
  • Internet domain: .ph
  • International dialling code: +63

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