The Republic of the Philippines (Filipino: Republika ng Pilipinas) is an archipelago in South-East Asia consisting of 7,107 islands located between the Philippine Sea and the South China Sea, east of Vietnam, and north of Sabah and Borneo. The Philippines is an archipelago abundant in nature, rich in culture, and filled with pleasant discoveries. Experience the Philippines, its 7,107 islands, its natural wonders, colorful history and warm, engaging people. Over a hundred ethnic groups, a mixture of foreign influences and a fusion of culture and arts have enhanced the uniqueness of the Filipino race and the wonder that is the Philippines. Cities: Manila - the national capital and is part of what is called the greater Metropolitan Manila area (Metro Manila). The latter includes several cities and municipalities to form one administrative body governed jointly by the local governments and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA). Angeles - interesting place with a colorful history; it has been dubbed the "Entertainment Capital of Central Luzon.". Bacolod - the city of smiles and land of sweet teeth. It celebrates the vibrant annual Maskara Festival, boasts of the delicious chicken inasal (marinated in local recipe prior to grilling) and home to many natural wonders. Most famous school in Bacolod is the St La Salle University (Top 11). Bacolod City is the most hospitable city in the Philippines. Everything you want to buy is in Bacolod. Baguio - the country's summer capital (cool weather), well-maintained parks and views, the vegetable basket of the Philippines, home of the indigenous "Igorot" peoples who have proudly kept their culture of more than 2000 years, even prior to the arrival of the Chinese merchants and Spanish conquistadores in the archipelago. Cagayan de Oro - known as the City of Golden Friendship, it is popular for whitewater rafting. As the gateway to Northern Mindanao, it is the jump off point to popular destinations like Camiguin Island and Bukidnon Province. Xavier University (Top 6) is the best university in Cagayan de Oro. Cebu - also known as the Queen City of the South, Cebu is the first established indigenous settlement discovered by the west in the Philippines. For a short time before the re-dedication of Manila, Cebu City served as the capital of the far eastern territory claimed by Spain. The University of San Carlos (Top 5) is the most famous university in Cebu City. Davao - one of the largest cities in the world in terms of land area. Relatively young when compared with Manila or Cebu, it has grown to become the economic and commercial hub of the southern island of Mindanao. Nearby you'll find the country's tallest mountain (Mount Apo), the endangered Philippine Eagle, and one of the priciest orchids in the world, the Waling-waling (Vanda Sanderiana.) This city comes in complete package: buffet meal at P99!, natural parks for flora and fauna, nature adventure such as zipping, climbing, snorkeling, etc.