I’m sure you’ve spoken to a friendly Filipino call center agent or been cared for by a brilliant Filipino nurse in Australia or New Zealand. But did you know these unique and fun facts about the Philippines? Let’s dive in!

Jeepneys: The Iconic Filipino Ride No visit to the Philippines is complete without a ride in a Jeepney. Originally WWII US military jeeps, these vehicles were creatively modified to accommodate passengers. Each Jeepney is a vibrant, uniquely decorated masterpiece reflecting its owner’s personality. You’ll find Jeepneys on almost every corner of the PhilippinesHowever, allow me to share some unique and distinct things about the Philippines. Let’s start!

Balut: The Ultimate Street Food Adventure Balut is a fertilized duck embryo boiled and eaten straight from the shell. You might have seen it on TV shows like “Fear Factor.” This delicacy is often enjoyed with salt and vinegar. Some say it’s an aphrodisiac or energy booster, but its unique taste makes it a must-try for any adventurous foodie.

An Airport in the Heart of the City In the bustling Makati CBD lies Nielson Field, an old airport inaugurated in July 1937. Once one of Asia’s best-equipped airports, it played a significant role during World War II before closing in 1948. Today, the Nielson Field Control Tower houses an exclusive restaurant, and its runways have transformed into Ayala Avenue and Paseo de Roxas, forming the iconic Ayala Triangle.

The Texting Capital of the World In the early 2000s, the Philippines earned the title of the texting capital of the world, with Filipinos sending an average of 1.39 billion text messages daily. This phenomenon was driven by the affordability of SMS compared to voice calls. Even today, SMS remains a popular communication method.

Christmas Starts in September For Filipinos, the Christmas season kicks off in September! Malls start playing holiday songs, and shopping bazaars pop up everywhere. Many homes are adorned with Christmas decorations as early as September. Filipinos also participate in religious activities like Simbang Gabi, a series of nine dawn masses leading up to Christmas Eve.