Here's why:
* Nation: The Philippines has a distinct national identity based on shared culture, language, history, and a sense of belonging. This is evident in its national symbols, holidays, and the strong sense of Filipino identity among its people.
* State: The Philippines has a sovereign government, with its own territory, population, and institutions. It possesses the legal and political structures necessary to function as a state.
However, it's worth noting that the concept of a nation-state is not without complexities. There are internal divisions within the Philippines, including:
* Ethnic diversity: The Philippines has numerous indigenous groups, each with their own cultural and historical traditions.
* Regionalism: The Philippines is a geographically diverse archipelago, and there is sometimes tension between different regions.
* Religious diversity: While predominantly Catholic, the Philippines also has significant Muslim, Protestant, and other religious communities.
Despite these complexities, the Philippines has achieved a significant degree of national unity and functions as a unified state.