Sports and recreation

A number of sports introduced by the Americans in the early 20th century enjoy great popularity
in the Philippines. Basketball is particularly prominent, with amateur games occurring regularly
in neighbourhoods throughout the country. The Philippines has also fielded formidable national
teams for the World Basketball Championships. Tennis, golf, and various aquatic sports such as
diving and windsurfing are widely practiced.

Filipinos have excelled in various internationally competitive martial arts, including boxing,
wushu, and tae kwon do, while local Filipino martial arts traditions have experienced a
resurgence since the end of the 20th century. The country has produced champion boxers in
competitions hosted by the World Boxing Association, and the Philippines has taken several
medals in martial arts in the Asian and Southeast Asian Games.

The Philippines has participated in the Summer Olympic Games since 1924 and in the Winter
Games since 1972. Filipino athletes generally have been most successful in swimming, boxing,
and track and field events.

Cockfighting (sabong), an age-old pastime in the Philippines, has retained a passionate

following. It is a popular form of gambling, with many spectators betting on the outcome of the
fights. Although practiced throughout the country, cockfighting is most strongly associated
with Cebu.