A nation of natural wonders, Philippines is undoubtedly one of the great treasures and a perfect getaway in Southeast Asia. With 7,107 tropical islands spread throughout the archipelago, local and foreign tourists alike has a lot more reasons to go around the country and take the extra mile of in-depth and more intimate exploration of its islands' diversity - from the splendid sights of the smallest of its hundreds of small islands to the magnificent attractions of the country's wide expanse of natural and cultural wonders. The wonders and attractions around the country exist in harmony with the friendly faces and inherent Filipino hospitality - a distinction that Filipino people proudly claimed its very own. Enjoying the sun with the country's long stretch of white sand beaches scattered throughout the archipelago, engaging an unmatched adventure with the country's lush forest reserves and eco-tourism marvels or pampering one's appetite with the country's wide array of mouth watering local cuisines that varies from island to island, a visit to the Philippines is indeed a unique way of knowing Asia.

Photos: Ariel Barredo