Friday, December 10, 2010

Philippines: Cultures & Traditions

I will be looking into cultures in Philippines which include Lifestyle, Music and Dance and Art.

As Philippines consist of different religions and people in different places, this literally means that there are also a mix of different cultures that will be overlapping each other throughout the future years. The Filipinos still held family as their first priority and high regards to the family ties and Filipinos kids are educated the importance of discipline since they were young. The families there are also quite conservative in their outlook. An example will be they felt inappropriate when a female visits a male’s house.



The music style seen in Philippines has a blend of both Europe and American influence. This means like the Lady Gaga’s generation is also trending there. The Spanish invasion had also left an impact of the development of music. Philippines are influenced by the usage of guitars and zarzuela in their music. Filipino rock and reggae also have major fan base. The dances of the Filipinos are seen in different forms also due to the change in culture. They have certain distinct forms of folk dance like Bamboo sticks are used in some dances. The dances are usually done in groups.


Art is one of the important and major aspects in the culture of Philippines. Painting style in the 17th century is continuing even until day. Other forms of art are weaving and pottery is still common amongst certain group of people. If you ever get a chance to visit the Filipinos homes, you will be able to realize most of their displays are wooden art. History reveals the relationship between the creative poetry with the people of Philippines. The Tanagas are the short poems that is wrote without titles and it is written in tagalog in the past. However, many aspiring ports are using the basics of this form to write creative verses. (Lad)





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Now, I will be covering the basic traditions of Philippines. Seniors (which is mostly the elderly) are high respected by the younger ones. Hence, when replying or greeting the elders, the Filipinos will use the word “Po” or “Opo” which means ‘Yes’ in a polite way.

There is also two other ways for the younger ones to greet the elders. The first one will be kissing the hand of an elder; this actually shows respect to the elders. Another is that a younger person may take the elder’s hand, bring it to the forehead then release it.

When having verbal communication with someone, speaking politely is very important. Criticism and arguing is a big No-no.

It is also a tradition that every family had to hold a family reunion when there is a birthday, Christmas or New Year’s Celebration. Removal of shoes is customary when entering one’s home. This is to show respect for the family and their home, as well as basic courtesy. (Social Customs and Traditions in Philippines)

On every November 1st, the Filipinos honor they deceased family members by visiting the cemeteries. However, those who are unable to make it can choose to light up candles and pray for the souls of their deceased family members. (Traditions)

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