<P> The Philippines are inhabited by more than 175 ethnolinguistic nations, the majority of whose languages are Austronesian in origin . Many of these nations converted to Christianity, particularly the lowland - coastal nations, and adopted many foreign elements of culture . Ethnolinguistic nations include the Ivatan, Pangasinan, Kapampangan, Tagalog, Bicolano, Visayans (Masbateño, Hiligaynon, Cebuano, Waray, Butuanon, Romblomanon, Kamayo, Cuyonon, and Surigaonon), Zamboangueño, Subanon, and more . </P> <P> In western Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago, there are ethnolinguistic nations who practice Islam . The Spanish called them Moros after the Moors, despite no resemblance or cultural ties to them apart from their religion . In the Agusan Marsh and the highlands of Mindanao, there are native ethnic groups collectively known as the Lumad . Most maintain their animistic beliefs and traditions, though some of them have converted to Christianity as well . </P>

How many tribes are there in the philippines