Philippines Culture Essay Example

have contributed to many customs now essential to Filipino culture. Although the nation has been influenced by foreign cultures in the past, it maintains its strong, religious, captivating, and patient character.

In April 1521, Ferdinand Magellan, a Portuguese explorer, landed on the shores of Limasawa island in Southern Leyte, introducing the Philippines to the world. At that time, there was no centralized government, and instead, small governing bodies called Chiefdoms or Balangays were in place. These Chiefdoms were led by warlord/ chieftains who had the local title of Raja/Datu and operated autonomously.

In the past, the Philippines was taken over by Spain using religious symbols like the Cross as well as weapons in honor of their monarch, Philip II. Although Ferdinand Magellan died while fighting against Datu Lapu Lapu and his warriors, surviving sailors continued to travel to the Philippines and turned it into a proper colony for Spain that lasted 333 years. However, Spanish influence declined during the 19th century due partly to America's victory over Spain in battle. As a result of this victory and purchasing the Philippines for $20 million - which was one of the largest deeds ever made - America acquired control over the whole country. Finally, American sovereignty over the Philippines became official with The Treaty of Paris.

After ruling the archipelago for almost half a century, the Americans left behind a legacy of democracy, foreign policy and education. This led to requests for independence from the natives which ultimately resulted in the establishment of the Republic of Philippines. The country's present customs and traditions were shaped by this history. Filipino majority religion is Christianity, brought over by Spanish colonizers who

converted indigenous animists through baptism. Religion served both as a saving grace and weapon for the Spaniards.

Despite the manipulation, we hold no bitterness towards it because Christianity has played a significant role in saving our nation from various trials. As a country, we greatly celebrate Christian traditions, particularly during the Lenten season and Easter Sunday. The resurrection of Jesus Christ is considered the most crucial celebration for Christians. Additionally, Filipinos highly anticipate the birth of Jesus Christ and eagerly attend the "misa de gallo" dawn masses.

Following this, they proceed to the street food stalls for a breakfast that includes indigenous Filipino treats and hot chocolate. Moreover, infants and individuals are anticipated to undergo Christian baptism. When they reach adulthood, a Confirmation ceremony is also performed to assert their belief in the Church and above all in Christ. Without a doubt, Filipinos are religious and have a robust connection with their deity. Additionally, Filipinos celebrate Fiestas as dates of merrymaking.

Typically with religious roots, various locations commemorate their respective patron saints through Feasts. During these occasions, Filipinos exhibit their renowned hospitality by inviting neighbors to share in a delicious meal. As food enthusiasts, Filipinos usually feature the famous roasted pig, known as lechon, as the centerpiece of every fiesta.

The Bayanihan spirit of the Filipino culture is often displayed in various ways such as the traditional Boodle feasts or Kamayan, where a sumptuous meal of grilled delicacies is enjoyed on a banana leaf without any cutlery, using only freshly washed hands. Another example is seen when moving an indigenous cottage called Bahay Kubo, where groups of sweaty, muscled men come together to carry it to a new location.

Lastly, the Filipino way of courtship involves not only courting the woman but also her family from their perspective.

Traditional courtship customs in the Philippines involve the gentleman serenading the woman with harana, or singing and playing guitar outside her window. This is done to please both the girl and her family, as it is customary for the woman to never visit the man's home. Some provinces still follow this practice. Additionally, men show respect for their partner's parents by performing pagmamano, which involves placing the back of their hand on their forehead. Once the courtship process is complete, women are prepared to accept their partner's love and promise to reciprocate with devotion.

Following a prosperous romantic involvement between a male and female, the subsequent phase would be the proposal. The gentleman would request the lady's consent and notify her parents of their intention to marry. If the woman's parents grant their approval, the pair can proceed with organizing their nuptials, known as pamamanhikan. As most Filipinos are Christian and traditional, they usually opt for a church ceremony rather than other alternatives. Moreover, Filipinos have an affinity for cuisine, with diverse regional delicacies on offer.

The Philippines boasts a variety of regional cuisines. One example is the Southern Luzon area, which is famous for their Bicol Express dish that incorporates native chillis, coconut milk, vegetables and fried pork. Coastal areas are known for their seafood recipes while mountainous regions like Baguio and Cagayan Valley offer organic vegetable dishes such as pinakbet. Despite the regional differences, Filipinos share a love for classic dishes like adobo, bulalo, kaldereta, arroz caldo, bibinka, puto maya and more. Additionally, the Filipino culture

honors exotic food like Balut which is believed to strengthen one's knees.

Thebalut, a popular Filipino food, is sold by street vendors who ride bicycles. Along with the balut, vendors also sell other delicacies such as thekwek-kwek (deep fried whole boiled egg breaded in orange colored flour) and buko juice, which is renowned for its healing properties as it contains fresh coconut juice. Additionally, Filipinos have a remarkable quality of respecting their elders, and parents train their children to speak respectfully to them by using affirmative terms like po and opo.

Filipinos are known for their strong bonds with their close family members. It is still common to see extended families living together in a family compound. The Filipino culture and traditions truly exemplify the beauty of diversity. As Filipinos, we should take pride in our heritage.