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The Philippines comprise thousands of islands and rocks, of which c400 are permanently inhabited. Luzon is among the largest islands, and the capital Manila is located there. The majority of the inhabitants, known as Filipinos, belong to the Malay group. Other groups include the Negritos and the Dumagats. Over 80 per cent of the population is Roman Catholic. Some 70 native languages are spoken. Ferdinand E Marcos was elected President in 1965, and he remained in office until he fled the country in 1986.