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Arts and Culture

15 Most Popular Philippine Folk Dances

What are the 10 popular folk dance in the Philippines?

 Sayaw Sa Bangko by Audioboss via Wikimedia cc

List of Philippine Folk Dances

Folk dances are performed by locals using traditional music and wearing traditional clothes during cultural
gatherings and festivals. In the Philippines, folk dances are performed during intimate events, such as weddings,
and celebratory gatherings, like festivals. The Philippines is rich in cultural heritage, and each of these traditional
dances has its origin stories. They reflect the culture, tradition, and history of the regions they come from. After
centuries, popular folk dances in the Philippines have developed and evolved, yet they remain true to their roots.
▾
Regarding Philippine folk dances, it’s important to know Francisca Reyes-Aquino, the Mother of Philippine Dancing
and the first National Artist for Dance If it weren’t for her and her research in 1926 there would not be any records of
and the first National Artist for Dance. If it weren t for her and her research in 1926, there would not be any records of
religious and ritualistic dances in the country.

Philippine folk dance is a rich and vibrant part of the country’s cultural heritage. These dances are performed to
celebrate events and express cultural traditions, often accompanied by traditional music and songs. They vary in
style and include both indigenous and Spanish-influenced forms. Some of the most popular Philippine folk dances
include the tinikling, a rhythmic dance performed with bamboo poles, and the cariñosa, a romantic dance that
showcases the grace and fluidity of traditional Philippine movements. Other popular folk dances include the
maglalatik, a Philippine folk dance performed with coconut shells, and the singkil, a dance that tells the story of the
Maranao people.

Philippine folk dance is an important aspect of the country’s cultural identity and is still performed and celebrated
today. Here are the 15 of the most popular folk dances in the Philippines;

1. Tinikling

All Rights Reserved View Non-AMP Version

Tinikling photo By U.S. Air Force/Senior Airman Nestor Cruz – Public Domain, cc

Tinikling is perhaps the most popular folk dance in the Philippines, whose roots originate from Leyte’s province.
Officially the National Dance of the Philippines, Tinikling, is inspired by the movement of the tikling birds, which the
dance is aptly named after.

The dancers, traditionally two male and female dancers, perform using bamboo poles 9 feet long parallel to each
other. The native dance is composed of combinations of singles, doubles, and hops determined by the beat of the
bamboo poles. ▾

2 C iñ
2. Cariñosa

Carinosa folk dance photo via SM City Consolacion

Another popular traditional dance in the Philippines, Cariñosa is a Philippine folk dance representing the Maria
Clara-like mannerisms and personality of the Filipina women during the Spanish Colonial Period.

The folk dance originated from Panay Island and was introduced by the Spaniards during their colonization. The
courtship dance consists mainly of flirtatious movements using a fan and a handkerchief where the male and
female pairs peek out at one another behind the fans and handkerchiefs.

3. Pandanggo sa Ilaw

Pandanggo sa Ilaw photo via Likha Filipina Dance Company FB Page

Originally from Lubang Island, Occidental Mindoro, Pandanggo sa Ilaw is a Filipino cultural dance of balancing oil
lamps or glasses with candles inside.

One of the lamps or glasses is perched on the head, and the other two on the palms of each hand. This native
Filipino folk dance is performed in 3/4 time and accompanied by castanets.
4. Pandanggo Oasiwas
Similar to Pandanggo sa Ilaw, Pandanggo Oasiwas is performed by fishermen to celebrate when they catch a lot of
fish. Instead of balancing oil lamps or glasses with candles inside on the palms of each hand, they are placed inside
nets and swung around during the dance.

5. Sayaw sa Bangko

Sayaw Sa Bangko By Audioboss – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, cc

Sayaw sa Bangko, or “dancing on a chair,” is performed by experienced dancers on top of a six-inch-wide wooden
bench. The popular folk dance is native to Pangasinan and was traditionally performed by newlyweds during their
wedding feasts.

6. Kuratsa
 Kuratsa Fok Dance photo by Eva Cular via FB

Often performed at weddings, Kuratsa is another courtship folk dance from Samar Island that imitates a rooster’s
mating movements with a hen. Kuratsa has three parts: the first is a waltz between a male and female dancer, the
second is when the male dancer pursues the female dancer in a chase, and the last part is when the male dancer
finally wins over the female dancer with his dance.

7. Subli

Subli Folk Dance by Aiza Aguillon Seda via FB

Subli is a folk dance from Bauan, Batangas, performed for the Holy Cross of Alitagtag, the patron of the Municipality
of Alitagtag.

The religious folk dance is performed by experienced male and female dancers who hop and slide, where the male
dancers beat their castanets, and the female dancers sway in a circle while holding their brimmed hats.
8. Maglalatik

Maglalatik Philippine Folk Dance By Ahmed Younis Sif – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, cc

Maglalatik is a folk dance that only includes male dancers with coconut shell halves secured onto the dancers’
vests. Its history and origins vary by region. One of its stories is that it is a mock war dance from Biñan, Laguna, that
represents a fight over coconut meat, a highly coveted food, and is danced during a religious procession to San
Isidro de Labrador, the patron saint of farmers.

The other story is that it tells the fight between the Christian and the Muslim Moro tribespeople where the
performers that represent the Christians wear blue trousers. In contrast, the performers that represent the Moro
community wear red trousers. Maglalatik has four parts, two dedicated to the battle and the other to reconcile.

9. Itik-Itik
 Screengrab from Linuphysio’s World of Amazing Videos

Itik-itik, which translates to “duck,” imitates the movements of the itik species, such as how they walk, fly and splash
water. The folk dance comes from Surigao del Sur.

According to the tale of its origins, a young woman considered the best dancer in the region performed Itik-itik
during a baptismal ceremony. The ceremony guests were entertained by her steps; they copied her movements
and have since passed them along.

10. Kappa Malong-Malong

Kappa Malong-Malong By BrokenSphere – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, cc

Kappa Malong-Malong is a tribal dance from the Maranao tribes in Mindanao. The dance involves a malong, a
tubular garment, and the dancers show the versatile ways it can be worn, such as a headdress, shawl, or skirt.

Its cultural significance to the Maranao tribes is also depicted, like how a tribesman will use the same malong from
birth to death.
11. Singkil

Singkil Dance By Jumphoto2000 – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, cc

Singkil originates from the Maranao tribes in Mindanao and translates to “getting a leg or foot entangled in an
object” or “to entangle the feet with disturbing objects such as vines or anything in your path.” It was originally
performed by a solo female dancer accompanied by the beating of bamboo poles.

The lead dancer is typically propped by a fan or scarf as she graciously in and out of the crisscrossed bamboo
poles. According to stories, Singkil was based on Darangen, a pre-Islamic Maranao interpretation of the ancient
Hindu Indian epic Ramayana, and was traditionally danced by maidens who wished to attract suitors.

12. La Jota Moncadeña

La Jota Moncadena photo by Teatro Bagong Silangan via FB

La Jota Moncadeña, or Jota Florana to the people from Moncada, Tarlac, is the Filipino adaptation of Jota, a
traditional courtship dance from Aragon, Spain. La Jota Moncadeña combines Spanish and Ilocano dance steps
accompanied by castanets and traditional Spanish music. It is performed at special celebrations, and a solemn
version of the dance is performed at funeral processions.

13. Surtido
Surtido, or Surtido Cebuano, is a square dance from Bantayan, Cebu, with Spanish, Mexican, and French influence.
The folk dance means “assortment,” where the costados perform in different quadrille formations led by the
cabeceras.

14. Pantomina

Pantomina sa Tinampo photo via DOT

Pantomina is a traditional courtship dance performed by newlyweds during wedding feasts in Bicol. Wedding
guests customarily throw coins or place cash on a plate placed on the ground as the couple dances.

The regional folk dance mimics the dance of the doves using courting movements. It was first featured by Francisca
Reyes-Aquino, the Mother of Philippine Dancing, in her research in 1926.
15. Binasuan

Binasuan Folk Dance photo via Bayambang.gov.ph

Binasuan is a folk dance from Pangasinan where the dancers balance drinking glasses on their heads and hands,
similar to Pandanggo sa Ilaw. Binasuan is among the most challenging Philippine folk dances because the drinking
glasses are filled with rice wine. The dance is typically performed at weddings and festivals, sometimes as a
competition between dancers who can balance the rice wine-filled glasses.

Supporting and promoting Philippine folk dances are crucial to keep their relevance for future generations. These
forms of entertainment have deep cultural, historical, and religious roots that reflect the traditions of a region or a
country. It’s important to appreciate and recognize these folk dances as it gives the current society a way to look
back and learn more about their cultural identity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the 5 types of folk dance in the Philippines?
The Philippines boasts a vibrant tapestry of folk dances reflecting its diverse culture. Among the five prominent
types are the Tinikling, a bamboo dance symbolizing agility; the Cordillera’s Binasuan, wherein dancers balance
glasses filled with water; the intricate Singkil, a Maranao dance recounting an epic tale; the joyful Pandanggo sa
Ilaw featuring dancers with lighted lanterns; and the energetic Maglalatik, a mock battle dance with coconut shells.
These dances encapsulate the country’s rich heritage, blending indigenous traditions with Spanish and Asian
influences, creating a captivating display of rhythm, storytelling, and tradition.

What are the top 10 popular Philippine folk dances?

The Philippines showcases diverse folk dances reflecting its rich cultural heritage The top 10 popular folk dances
The Philippines showcases diverse folk dances reflecting its rich cultural heritage. The top 10 popular folk dances
include the Tinikling (bamboo dance), Singkil (Maranao princess dance), Pandanggo sa Ilaw (dance with lighted oil
lamps), Maglalatik (coconut shell dance), Sayaw sa Bangko (dance on top of a bench), Subli (devotional dance), Itik-
Itik (duck dance), Kuratsa (courtship dance), Binasuan (glass balancing dance), and Cariñosa (affectionate dance).
These dances encapsulate the country’s history, traditions, and regional diversity, captivating audiences with
rhythmic movements and cultural storytelling.

What are the costumes used in Philippine folk dance?

Philippine folk dance costumes are vivid and symbolic, reflecting the country’s diverse cultures. Women’s costumes
often feature vibrant dresses called “Maria Clara” dresses, with intricate embroidery and butterfly sleeves. Men wear
“Barong Tagalog,” a lightweight embroidered shirt, often paired with trousers called “Tapis.” Indigenous dances
showcase unique outfits made from materials like abaca, banana leaves, and bark cloth, representing local
traditions.

Accessories such as fans, scarves, and hats add flair to performances. These costumes emphasize the elegance of
movement and celebrate the Philippines’ cultural tapestry through colors, patterns, and materials.

What are some easy Philippine folk dances?

Several easy and enjoyable options are available for those new to Philippine folk dances. The “Pandanggo sa Ilaw”
involves dancers gracefully balancing and swirling lighted lamps, while the “Sayaw sa Bangko” showcases couples
dancing atop a narrow bench. “Maglalatik” features male dancers rhythmically clashing coconut shells attached to
their bodies, and the “Itik-Itik” playfully imitates the movements of a duck.

These dances offer simpler choreography compared to more intricate ones, making them accessible for beginners
and allowing participants to appreciate the essence of Philippine culture and dance without overwhelming
complexity.

What is the history of Philippine folk dance?

The history of Philippine folk dance traces back to pre-colonial times, shaped by indigenous rituals and celebrations.
Spanish colonization introduced European influences, amalgamating local traditions with Christian themes. Dances
became a form of resistance during colonization preserving cultural identity
became a form of resistance during colonization, preserving cultural identity.

Post-independence, efforts to promote folk culture led to a resurgence of interest. Folk dance troupes were
established to showcase these traditions nationally and internationally. Each dance holds historical, religious, and
social significance, reflecting the country’s diverse ethnic groups and historical experiences. Philippine folk dance
remains a vibrant heritage, storytelling, and unity expression.

What is the significance of Philippine folk dance?

Philippine folk dances bear immense cultural importance as they embody the nation’s history, diversity, and values.
These dances act as living connections to the past, preserving indigenous traditions, rituals, and stories. They depict
various facets of Filipino life, from courtship to daily labor, reflecting the country’s vibrant social fabric.

Beyond their artistic appeal, folk dances foster a sense of national identity, uniting people through shared heritage.
They also serve as vehicles of education, allowing future generations to understand their roots and appreciate the
richness of Filipino culture. Overall, Philippine folk dance stands as a dynamic testament to the country’s soul and
collective memory.

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updates.

Read:

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M l Vill l 
 Melo Villareal 
Melo Villareal is the Online Publisher of Outoftownblog.com. He is an Accountant by profession who left the corporate world at the age of 23 to
explore his beautiful country and the rest of the world. Today, Melo works as a part-time Social Media Manager for local and international clients.
His full-time work focuses on discovering interesting culture, explore different cuisines and take memorable photos from local and international
destinations he's visiting.

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