Exploring different cultures is always fascinating. Understanding the differences and how they perceive the world allows us to comprehend diversity. One such fascinating culture is that of the people of the Philippines. An Asian country that is home to more than 100 million people and boasts more than 7,600 islands. But it’s their cultural heritage that sets them apart from any other country. Here are the top 13 things you should know about the Filipino culture so that you can enjoy and make the most of your vacation if you ever visit this country
Filipinos are artistic and love architecture
Perhaps one of the most enthralling things about the Philippines is its art and architecture. At one point, you see those massive tall buildings, which showcase the architectural vision of the people of the Philippines. On the other hand, you see these traditional and humble villas displaying the roots. This also showcases their natural affinity toward art, allowing them to try out something new and unique.
They are very religious
Nearly 93% of the Philippines consists of Christians. Other religions include Islam and Buddhism. However, the common thing among all these religions is that Filipinos are very religious. Most of them spend their Sundays in church, offering prayers and helping out each other.
Filipinos are resilient
Being an island nation, natural calamity is quite common in the Philippines. However, every time a catastrophe hits them down, these resilient people manage to stand up and rebuild the society with so much gusto that it will feel that nothing ever happens.
By Patrick Roque, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Filipinos celebrate Christmas for more than four months
Have you ever heard of a country celebrating Christmas for four months? It sounds like fiction, right? Chances are, if you visit the Philippines now, you will see Christmas songs and jingles are already being played in the malls and restaurants. Yes, that’s right! Filipinos celebrate Christmas for nearly four months, which begins as early as August and lasts up to the second week of January. Talk of celebrating festivals!
Filipinos love to sing
Irrespective of which part of the country you visit, you will often hear the locals singing with their friends and family. This is why karaoke is so prevalent in the Philippines, as the people here love to sing. For them, singing is a part of their lives and one of the ways to communicate. Hence, it is also something most Filipino children grow up doing with family and friends.
Filipinos take joy in their families
One of the most beautiful things about the people of the Philippines is that family comes first for them. This is why you would see most extended families living together, especially when the concept of small families is so common. What’s even fascinating is that sometimes people even consider their close friends as their family.
Filipinos love to help each other
Filipinos are bonded together with the concept of “bayan,” which essentially means community, town, and nation. Based on this principle of “Bayanihan,” they are taught by family elders about helping from childhood without having any expectations in return. They treat each other as comrades because they constantly look out for each other, help each other, and make others’ lives easier by dividing the workload and responsibilities.
Filipinos are respectful
While most of us learn about the concept of respect growing up, Filipinos learn how to be respectful since their birth. You will often see children and young adults using simple catchphrases like “po” and “opo” while addressing their elders as a mark of respect. And don’t be surprised if you see a young child take the back of your hand and place it on the forehead, which is the ultimate sign of respect. It is also called pagmamano.
By CEphoto, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Filipinos are proud of their traditions and culture
We already discussed the fact that for Filipinos, families are essential. Additionally, their cultures and traditions are also crucial. This is why they set aside specific days in which they spend all their time with their families, trying to catch up with each other, celebrating different festivals, and ensuring that all of it is passed on to the next generations.
While most of the world is worried about future generations not caring enough about the cultural heritage, even the new generation here have maintained the customs and are dedicated and carrying them forward.
By Constantine Agustin, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link
Filipinos love to eat
Remember we said for the people of the Philippines, families come first? Well, truth is possibly the second! But what’s fascinating about the Filipinos is that apart from lunch, breakfast, and dinner, they even manage to squeeze in little meals in between. Rice is the staple diet of the Philippines and there is hardly any dish that doesn’t include rice in it. Also, the fact that they value their food is why they savor every bite. Don’t be surprised to go to a party or land in some festival celebrations and watch people going crazy over the buffet. Yes, that’s how much they enjoy eating! For them, food nourishes the soul.
Filipinos love to celebrate
By now, you might have guessed that Filipinos are fun-loving and enjoy having a great time. Hence, it might not be a surprise to you when we tell you that they love to party! They believe in finding joy and celebrations in little things. Therefore, whether it’s a huge achievement or a tiny step, or some ongoing festival, the locals celebrate everything with equal fervor. And, of course, the party should have music and food. Celebrations in every aspect of life is a part of the Filipino culture and traditions.
Filipinos are one of the friendliest people
Maybe it’s the helpful nature of the people with their pride in the culture which makes the citizens of this country so welcoming. Perhaps this is why the Philippines is regarded as one of the friendliest nations in the world.
Blend of traditional and modern
The Filipinos indeed value their traditions. They love their heritage, traditional food and festivals. However, this doesn’t mean that they are not privy to the modern world. In fact, if you visit Metro Manila, you will see the perfect blend of the contemporary co-existing with the traditional in harmony.
The Philippines is a great place to spend quality time with your family, learning about life and its values. Contrary to popular belief, citizens of this tropical nation learn both Tagalog and English, eliminating any language barrier. Let us know which of the above facts about the vivid Filipino culture and traditions fascinated you the most.