The Philippines are endowed with rich agricultural and marine resources.
With over 7,000 islands located in the western Pacific Ocean, the Philippines are endowed with rich natural resources: mineral, agricultural, and marine. The land is fertile and the climate ranges from temperate to subtropical, providing an environment for many plant and animal species. The country is also blessed with mineral resources and an extensive coastline filled with marine life.
Mineral Deposits
The Philippines are rich in gold, copper, zinc, and other minerals.
According to Bloomberg Businessweek, the Philippines hope to attract USD 6 billion in foreign investment to help develop its stores of gold, nickel, copper, silver, platinum, zinc, and cobalt. The Philippines website reports that its power plants are harnessing the power of geothermal energy to provide 27 percent of the country's total electricity needs. There are geothermal power plants on the islands of Leyte, Negros, Mindanao, and Luzon.
Sea Life
Turtles are among the prolific sea life found in Philippine waters.
According to The Philippine History website, the nation boasts many different kinds of natural water forms including rivers, lakes, bays, gulfs, straits, and swamps. These bodies of water measure 1.67 million square kilometers and are rich in marine resources. There are 2,400 fish species found in the Philippines; those with good commercial value include mackerel, tuna, squid, shrimp, crab, clam, and lobster. The fish are harvested for local consumption and also exported abroad. Sea life also includes shells, coral, and pearls used in jewelry and handicrafts.
Agricultural Crops
Mangoes are among the fruits grown in the Philippines.
According to the Philippines' Department of Environment and Natural Resources, major agricultural crops include corn, rice, sugarcane, abaca (hemp), and tobacco. Native fruits include coconuts, watermelons, and mangoes. The indigenous pili nut is used in the production of chocolate, candies, ice cream, and soap.
