What Was the Original Name of the Philippines? A Historical Perspective

Discover the historical name of the Philippines and its origin in this brief enlightening Q&A.

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The old name of the Philippines was 'Las Islas Filipinas' given by the Spanish explorer Ruy López de Villalobos in 1543. The name honored King Philip II of Spain. This name eventually evolved into the modern name, Philippines.

FAQs & Answers

  1. Who named the Philippines? The Philippines was named by Spanish explorer Ruy López de Villalobos in 1543.
  2. What does the name 'Las Islas Filipinas' mean? 'Las Islas Filipinas' translates to 'The Philippine Islands,' named in honor of King Philip II of Spain.
  3. How has the name of the Philippines changed over time? The Philippines was originally called 'Las Islas Filipinas' and has since been simplified to the modern name, Philippines.
  4. When was the Philippines colonized by Spain? The Philippines was colonized by Spain in 1565, following its naming in 1543.