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16 Things The Philippines Does Better than Other Countries

Think the Philippines is no better than other countries? Here are 16 reasons to prove you wrong.

Charmaine AchaCharmaine AchaJul 13th, 2015

The Philippines might still be a developing country which has a long way to go, but there are plenty of
reasons to fall in love with it anyway. In fact, Ill give you 16 things that Philippines does better than
other countries. If this list doesnt make you swell with pride to be a Filipino, I dont know what will.

1. Stunning beaches

things about philippines

Image credit: Currystrumpet

You dont have to go to Boracay or travel too far to enjoy gorgeous beaches because every single
municipality has their own little piece of secret paradise.

Also read: 20 Best Islands in The Philippines for Beach Getaways

2. Majestic landforms

Image credit: Adi.simionov

The landforms come in many different sizes and shapes. We have the Chocolate Hills, Hundred Islands,
Mayon Volcano, Banaue Rice Terraces and a lot more!

Also read: 12 Places in the Philippines Too Stunning to be Real

3. Amazing dive spots

Image credit: nicoboxethai

Diving here is accessible and affordable. Go to the nearest beach destination and youll find a number of
diving shops offering underwater excursions and diving courses.

4. Inspiring historic sites

Image credit: Jsinglador

For centuries, the Philippines was ruled by different colonisers like the Spaniards, the Americans and the
Japanese. You can find a number of historic sites sprawling across the country, each telling a story of its
glorious past.

5. Inventive souvenirs

I bet they dont have these souvenirs in other countries:

The frog prince turned frog purse

Image credit: Scott Pacaldo

and this mischievous barrel man

Image credit: Kguirnela (left) , Kguirnela (right)

6. Unique transportation

Image credit: Rajesh_India

Known as the King of the Road, the colourful jeepney is the most common mode of transportation in
the Philippines. The fare is very cheap and it is often jam-packed with commuters.

But dont call yourself a hardcore commuter yet until youve tried the habal-habal or skylab.

7. Death-defying rituals

Despite the opposition of the church, Catholic devotees in some parts of the country still get nailed on
the cross every Good Friday.

8. Vibrant fiestas

Image credit: Bro. Jeffrey Pioquinto, SJ

No month will pass without a fiesta. Everywhere you go, youll be greeted by celebrations after
celebrations.

9. Grand beauty pageants

Image credit: Paul Chin

And every fiesta wouldnt be complete without beauty queens or festival queens. No country can ever
beat this fascination to beauty pageants.

10. Basketball

This is not even our national sport but in every corner, you will find a public basketball court flocked by
wannabe basketball stars. The National Geographic Channel even made a documentary on the basketball
craze in the Philippines.

11. Videoke

Image credit: Party Party Family KTV

If Japan has karaoke, the Philippines has videoke. Filipinos just love to sing. Because of this, videoke
machines are found anywhere at home, in bars and in business establishments. This is a necessity, I tell
you.

12. Repetitive nicknames

Image credit: cham_my

Chamcham (Yes, thats my nickname!). Filipinos are so fond of repetitive nicknames. I dont know why.
Maybe, it sounds more endearing?

13. Hospitality

Image credit: Becoming Filipino

Filipinos are known for such great hospitality. I guess I dont have to explain it further because the best
way to understand this is to experience it right here.

14. Resiliency

Image credit: dfataustralianaid

The Philippines is one of the most disaster-hit countries in the world. I cant remember a year without a
single calamity typhoon, flood, earthquake or volcanic eruption. Despite all these, you would still see
Filipinos standing strong, never refusing to give up.

15. Christmas celebrations

Image credit: Chip Sillesa

The Philippines celebrates Christmas the longest. When the BER month starts, the streets,
establishments and homes will be decorated by glittering lights and lanterns. Filipinos have a deep love
for Christmas. This is the time when families and friends gather with a jovial spirit and of course lots of
FOOD.

16. Close family ties

Image credit: Greedy Glutton

The Filipinos really value the family. Its a common scene to see the main family and its extended family
members like grandparents, uncles and aunties, live together in one roof. If youre a relative (close or
not), youre always considered part of the family.

Also read: 23 Reasons Why It Is So Much More Fun in the Philippines

See? There are many things that Philippines does better than other countries. If you have more to add to
this list, feel free to share them below.