GEE 106: Philippine Popular Culture

Chapter 1: Definition of Popular Culture and other Definition of Popular Culture

Prepared by: Dhanelie M. Flores BSED 2- Social Studies
Date:
Content: Definition of Popular Culture

Popular culture (or "pop culture") refers in general to the traditions and material culture of a particular
society. In the modern West, pop culture refers to cultural products such as music, art, literature, fashion,
dance, film, cyberculture, television, and radio that are consumed by the majority of a society's population.
Popular culture is those types of media that have mass accessibility and appeal.
The term "popular culture" was coined in the mid-19th century, and it referred to the cultural traditions
of the people, in contrast to the "official culture" of the state or governing classes. In broad use today, it is
defined in qualitative terms—pop culture is often considered a more superficial or lesser type of artistic
expression.

Popular Culture In Philippines

Popular culture, according to National Artist for literature Bienvenido Lumbera in his book
Revaluation: Essays on Philippine Literature, Theatre and Popular Culture (1984), is highly different from
the folk culture and nationalist culture of the Filipinos. In a nutshell, folk culture is the way of living in a
place in a specific time and portrays the practices of a certain people, and on how they cope to survive with
nature. Nationalist culture is the culture created through colonial resistance with the collective of a people on
a given place and time. These two are different from popular culture which can be traced even in the period
of Hispanization of the Philippines.
According to Lumbera, popular culture in the Philippines was created and used by the Spaniards to the
native Filipinos or Indios via plays and literature to get the heart of the natives and win it.
The most common forms of popular culture are movies, music, television, video games, sports,
entertainment news, fashion, and various forms of technology.
The Rise of Popular Culture
Scholars trace the origins of the rise of popular culture to the creation of the middle class generated by
the Industrial Revolution. People who were configured into working classes and moved into urban
environments far from their traditional farming life began creating their own culture to share with their co-
workers, as a part of separating from their parents and bosses.
The meaning of popular culture then began to merge with that of mass culture, consumer culture, image
culture, media culture, and culture created by manufacturers for mass consumption.

Different Definitions of Popular Culture

In his wildly successful textbook "Cultural Theory and Popular Culture" (now in its 8th edition), British
media specialist John Storey offers six different definitions of popular culture.

1. Popular culture is simply culture that is widely favored or well-liked by many people: it has no
negative connotations.
2. Popular culture is whatever is left after you've identified what "high culture" is: in this definition,
pop culture is considered inferior, and it functions as a marker of status and class.
3. Pop culture can be defined as commercial objects that are produced for mass consumption by non-
discriminating consumers. In this definition, popular culture is a tool used by the elites to suppress or
take advantage of the masses.
4. Popular culture is folk culture, something that arises from the people rather than imposed upon them:
pop culture is authentic (created by the people) as opposed to commercial (thrust upon them by
commercial enterprises).
 5. Pop culture is negotiated: partly imposed on by the dominant classes, and partly resisted or changed
by the subordinate classes. Dominants can create culture but the subordinates decide what they keep
or discard.
6. The last definition of pop culture discussed by Storey is that in the postmodern world, in today's
world, the distinction between "authentic" versus "commercial" is blurred. In pop culture today, users
are free to embrace some manufactured content, alter it for their own use, or reject it entirely and
create their own.
All six of Storey's definitions are still in use, but they seem to change depending on the context. Since
the turn of the 21st century, mass media—the way pop culture is delivered—has changed so dramatically
that scholars are finding it difficult to establish how they function. As recently as 2000, "mass media" meant
only print (newspapers and books), broadcast (televisions and radio), and cinema (movies and
documentaries). Today, it embraces an enormous variety of social media and forms.
To a large degree, popular culture is today something established by niche users. What is "mass
communication" moving forward? Commercial products such as music are considered popular even when
the audience is tiny, in comparison to such pop icons as Britney Spears and Michael Jackson. The presence
of social media means consumers can speak directly to producers—and are producers themselves, turning
the concept of pop culture on its head.
So, in a sense, popular culture has gone back to its simplest meaning: It is what a lot of people like.
• As Brummett explains in Rhetorical Dimensions of Popular Culture, pop culture involves the aspects of
social life most actively involved in by the public. As the ‘culture of the people’, popular culture is
determined by the interactions between people in their everyday activities: styles of dress, the use of slang,
greeting rituals and the foods that people eat are all examples of popular culture. Popular culture is also
informed by the mass media.
There are a number of generally agreed elements comprising popular culture. For example, popular
culture encompasses the most immediate and contemporary aspects of our lives. These aspects are often
subject to rapid change, especially in a highly technological world in which people are brought closer and
closer by omnipresent media. Certain standards and commonly held beliefs are reflected in pop culture.
Because of its commonality, pop culture both reflects and influences people’s everyday life (see eg Petracca
and Sorapure, Common Culture). Furthermore, brands can attain pop iconic status (eg the Nike swoosh or
McDonald’s golden arches). However, iconic brands, as other aspects of popular culture, may rise and fall.
With these fundamental aspects in mind, popular culture may be defined as the products and forms of
expression and identity that are frequently encountered or widely accepted, commonly liked or approved,
and characteristic of a particular society at a given time.
• Ray Browne in his essay ‘Folklore to Populore’ offers a similar definition: “Popular culture consists of the
aspects of attitudes, behaviors, beliefs, customs, and tastes that define the people of any society. Popular
culture is, in the historic use of term, the culture of the people.”
Popular culture allows large heterogeneous masses of people to identify collectively. It serves an
inclusionary role in society as it unites the masses on ideals of acceptable forms of behavior. Along with
forging a sense of identity which binds individuals to the greater society, consuming pop culture items often
enhances an individual’s prestige in their peer group. Further, popular culture, unlike folk or high culture,
provides individuals with a chance to change the prevailing sentiments and norms of behavior, as we shall
see. So popular culture appeals to people because it provides opportunities for both individual happiness and
communal bonding.
Herbert Gans, Popular Culture and High Culture: An Analysis and Evaluation of Taste (New York,
Basic Books, 1975),
American films, popular songs, television dramas are items of use for Gans, commodities designed
to offer immediate satisfactions to a mass audienece and according to him popular culture had value in
that it provided entertainment for people rather than being worthless .

Examples of Popular Culture

Examples of popular culture come from a wide array of genres, including popular music, print, cyber
culture, sports, entertainment, leisure, fads, advertising and television. Sports and television are arguably
two of the most widely consumed examples of popular culture, and they also represent two examples of
popular culture with great staying power.

GEE 106: Philippine Popular Culture

Topic: Chapter 1: Introduction to Philippine Popular Culture

• History and Evolution of Philippine Popular Culture
Prepared by: Faith B. Francisco BSED 2- Social Studies
Date: January 22, 2024

PHILIPPINE POPULAR CULTURE

History of Popular Culture in the Philippines

"Building a culture has to start with a foundation, and that foundation must necessarily be the culture
of the Filipino people if this could be separated with the encrustations grown on it by colonial rule."
According to Lumbera, popular culture in the Philippines was created and used by the Spaniards to
the native Filipinos or Indios via plays and literature to get the heart of the natives and win it. The colonial
origins of popular culture found in the Philippines can be traced by looking at salient developments in
Philippine literature. The first permanent Spanish settlement began replacing the native culture with a
Christian and European tradition.
The children of the native elite under the tutelage of missionaries became a core group of
intelligentsia called 'ladinos', as they became instrumental "in bringing into the vernacular, literary forms
that were to be vehicles for the "pacification" of the natives". Forms of popular theatre and literature such as
"the pasyon, sinakulo, and korido ensured the acceptance and spread of Christianity, and the komedya and
awit did the same for the monarchy." Popular culture as introduced by the Spanish was "popular" to the
extent that it was a "watering-down of Spanish-European culture for the purpose of winning the general
populace over to the 'ideology' of the colonial regime." Popular culture at the time was created by colonial
authorities, with the aid of the local intelligentsia, to promote the interests of the Church and the State.

However, once the native intelligentsia saw the effects of popular culture and knew how to work its
way as propaganda, they soon used the Spanish weapon against them. In the 19th century, through the
Propaganda movement, the native intelligentsia used the same forms of popular culture to "undermine the
power of the abusive friars and rally the populace to put an end to colonial rule" one example is the work of
Marcelo H. del Pilar when he soon used prayers such as the 'Aba, Ginoong Maria' and 'Ama Namin' in a sort
of parody to strike against the abusive Spanish Friars.
The advent of American colonialism brought, the properly so-called, popular culture to the
Philippines. The liberal policy regarding the printing press, soon through radio, television and film,
increased the circulation of of popular culture forms. Not only through these forms but also in new media
then, such as films. Hollywood films had a near-monopoly in the Philippine market especially in the absence
of European movies due to World War I.
Early on, the local intelligentsia has the same apprehensions over mass media as they called it
commercialisation, or vulgarisation of art. According to Lumbera, the local intelligentsia noticed that
"Popular literature as a commodity intended for a mass market was seen to pose a threat to serious artistic
work, because the writers accommodated his art to the demands of the publishers and editors who were more
interested in sales rather than aesthetics.

" More so, "...popular culture is not created by the populace... rather, it is culture created either by the ruling
elite or by members of the intelligentsia in the employ of that elite, for the consumption of the populace."; it
is "....'packaged' entertainment or art intended for the profit of rulers, be they colonial administrators or
native bureaucrats and businessmen."
Evolution of Popular Culture in the Philippines
1. Arts and Literature
• Architecture
In the Philippines, architecture has gone through so many changes along with time and the influences of
its colonists especially the Spaniards and Americans with their many years of taking over the Philippines.
During the Pre-Spanish period, Philippine architecture was made of bamboo and nipa and seldom were
their houses made of stones. In the Philippines, it is best known as the Bahay-Kubo which even in the
present times, still exist usually resided upon by lowland dwellers in the country.
In the American Commonwealth Period, there was the establishment of a civil government thus the
American mission style architecture which are buildings of commerce in their modern 20th century and
Greek-like building styles.
Today, Contemporary Architecture in the Philippines succumbed to the modern-mundane style which
includes the concrete structure of cities
• Music and Dance
Anglo-American popular music was very popular then in the early twentieth century. The famous
musical genres at the time, the cakewalk, foxtrot and ragtime-which would soon develop as Jazz were
played by Filipino dance bands in shows.
When radio, sheet music, live entertainment and movie themes came, popular music became part of the
mainstream of Philippine society.
In the Japanese Occupation, American entertainment were banned which is why a pro- Filipino and
Japanese virtue was encouraged in the music industry.
In the late 70's, Metro Manila Popular Music Festival a song writing competition boosted the creation of
new pop songs. It was in this time that the Organisasyon ng mga Pilipinong Mang-aawit (OPM), was created
for Filipino popular artists. OPM also means Original Pilipino Music; music composed and performed by
Filipinos, even with its ultimate use of English for the lyrics.
Today, a lot of international popular music is being consumed by many Filipinos especially Hollywood
and Korean-pop music. Thankfully, OPM songs remain to be famous.
Lately, with the application Tiktok, many dances also surfaced being danced by many Filipino youths
shared on social media platforms.
• Painting
It is said that there is no specific tradition when it comes to painting in the Philippines which means that
there is no particular pattern being followed by the artists. Some famous paintings in the Philippines include:
 The Fishermen by Ang Kiukok (1935-2005)
 The Fruit Gatherer of Fernando Amorsolo (1892-1972)
Among others which were excellently made and some with a backstory.
• Theater
The Philippine Theater, just like the arts have evolved through time with the influences of the various
cultures the Philippines has been dawned upon.
Before Colonization, Philippine theater was more on verbal jousts, indigenous rituals, songs, games and
dances to praise gods.
In the Spanish Regime, Spanish people casted off dramas as their instructive tool in influencing and
teaching the Filipinos Christianity. One more significant theater form propagated during the time was the
comedia, or the moro-moro.
During the American Colonization, education, media, and language were introduced with its most
obvious influence, the bodabil (vaudeville) including plays and dramas translated or presented in English

By the 1940s, as the Japanese commenced, all film equipment got confiscated. The bodabil comedia and
zarzuela endured only as entertainment and expression. From after the Japanese Occupation to today,
Philippine theatre has grown to become an incorporation of the various influences of all abovementioned,
mostly performed in English during the time, until it became part of classroom education.
• Literature
 Before the Spaniards, records show that Filipinos created epics, poems, songs myths, tales and legends
which must've been imitations from the Indians, elucidating existence through stories about their lives and
the nature, creating brave and patriotic heroes with supernatural powers.
During Spanish Occupation, literary creativity was quietened as Spaniards promoted Christianity. In the
late nineteenth century though, literature came back as poetry and in prose; Florante at Laura of Francisco
Balagtas was born. Filipinos also wrote in Spanish where Spaniards then supported creative writing and
gave prizes.
In the American occupation, a voice of power and authority came. The first Filipino who wrote in
English took 20 years of studying the new language. Later, writers in English began to rise in number but
were paid very poorly. Nevertheless, it boosted when writers were offered prizes by the Commonwealth
Literary Contest.
Filipino Literature has been and until now a mixture of traditional folk-tales, real life experiences and
socio-political histories often promoting Filipino cultural values and struggles of locals.

2. Lifestyle, Fashion & Food

• Lifestyle
A person's lifestyle or way of life is heavily influenced by the history, culture and the values embedded
in the place he or she is in. Filipinos, as people of one country are expected to share commonalities in terms
of dealing with existence.
With the harsh conditions of the country being prone to typhoons; also with the number of colonization
that transpired, Filipinos were able to develop resiliency and a stronger faith, above all. With those said,
these factors truly affect the way Filipinos have led and are continuing to lead their lives until now.

• Daily Life and Social Customs

Living a Filipino life means giving high regard to the family and by that, it includes extended family
members like grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and relatives.
Catholic families, they also include godparents assigned as the people responsible of a child should the
parents die or be disabled. The people abovementioned are the same people you will see in major life
gatherings and events like baptism and confirmations for Catholics, circumcision for Muslims, marriages,
and other special, religious and national holidays.

Filipino families are also tight-knit. Children don't leave the household easily unlike in other cultures
where children are ought to leave by the age of 18. Usually, children leave their parents' house the moment
they decide to marry but there are also instances where children do not leave at all and stay with their
parents despite having a family of their own. Most of these who do not leave the house are also making
themselves responsible of taking care of their parents as they grow old.

Education as well is revered by Filipinos. Usually, the first wish among parents for their children is to
have them finish their studies. They even celebrate graduations with a feast of food, inviting family and
friends to come and join the celebration. Academic achievement other than work is something that one
would take pride over in the Philippines.

Filipinos have the thing they call bayanihan which means helping one another or extending help to those
in dire need especially in times of disaster and calamity. Filipinos value respect to the elders and you can
often hear them say po or opo as honorifics to those who are older.

Nowadays, with the impact of digital technology, the Internet of Things and globalization, Filipino
lifestyle also changed enormously. Things and machines have become more advanced which made work
easier. Even the means of transportation and home appliances advanced.
In socializing, social media has become a major platform in which people can share and post things.
Most of the youth dedicate a lot of their time surfing the net for entertainment like scrolling on their social
media accounts, watching foreign dramas and youtube videos.
• Foods
Fililipinos call it handaan or having a feast as their way of celebrating achievements and special
occasions. Other than lechon, you can expect lechon manok (roasted chicken), pancit (noodle dish), lumpia
(rolls), spaghetti, mango float, fruit salad and other sweets with the variety of viands.
When it comes to drinks in these occasions, there always are soft and hard drinks. More often than not,
the ones to drink the hard drinks are the male visitors or family members. Females in the Philippines are
often not expected to drink alcohol.
Filipinos also like street foods very much. Street foods include kwek-kwek (boiled egg dipped in orange
batter), fish balls, tempura (mixed sea food, meat and vegetables), siomai (steamed Chinese dumplings),
sweet corn, turon (banana rolled in thin layer of pastry), banana que (fried banana coated with sugar), isaw
(chicken intestines) and barbecue which can be paired with buko juice (coconut juice with milk), lemonade
and gulaman (drink with jelly). Filipinos especially students enjoy eating these a lot outside while chit-
chatting with friends and others.
When it comes to snacks and sweets, Filipinos also have a lot to offer. There are foods refered to as
kakanin or food made out of glutinous rice widely known as rice cakes. Kakanin includes puto (steamed rice
cake), biko (coconut milk and malagkit rice), sapinsapin (layered glutinous rice), suman (rolled rice cake),
kutsinta (ground rice and sugar), bibingka (baked rice cake) and palitaw (ground sticky rice mixed with
sugar powder and milk). All of these are very popular around the country and people search for these every
buwan ng wika; a whole-month celebration for t the Filipino language.

• Fashion
Fashion speaks a lot about someone; it's become a way of expressing the self without having to say
something and clothing, being a universal culture would mean that wherever you go, there will always be
certain ways of dressing in places according to trend, culture and other influences. Such a fact would not
exclude the Philippines of which fashion changed over time.
The way Filipinos dress through time is incontestably influenced by the colonizations it has undergone,
reflecting in it the rich history of the country but before these extensive occupations, Filipinos dressed
according to social ststuses.
In Central Philippines, the Tagalog men wore baro, while women put on baro at saya made of silk in
corresponding colors. The textile for baro't saya showed social status.
Women in the upper class wore silk, while the lower class used white bark fibers. Colors of the clothes
also indicated social status and tattoos were worn signifying power and strength in warriors, beauty, power
and wealth for women.
Filipinos travelled and lived in Europe and the US, Western influences became more prominent. Women
started wearing loose dresses and knee-length skirt while men wore suit and coat. Floral dresses replaced
Traje de Mestiza in 1930s. While the elders still used it daily, the younger generation saw it only as a formal
dress for special events and occasions
During the Second World War, the Japanese occupied factories, which resulted in shortage of textiles.
Tailoring shops, boutiques and dressmakers closed. Trade and the economy got affected, people lived
through rations and clothes became simpler. Men abandoned coat and "Americana." Women didn't wear
terno resulting to its death as stores only sold one-colored dark dresses.
With the fame of British pop culture, Philippine fashion changed in 1960s. Mod became an instant hit.
Hemlines got shorter, while the clothes became looser. Mini skirt and mini dresses became popular for
women. With the invention of hairspray, hairstyle got bigger and bolder. In the late 1960s to 1970s, Filipinos
had the hippie culture.

Disco culture arose. Bell bottoms stayed a fashion basic paired with polos in bright colors. Women wore
short dresses. The sloppy vibe of the era led to the fame of casual look. Bakya, a footwear, became famous
and the denim-shirt ensemble. Wearing neo-colored clothes with miniskirts was a huge trend. Curls were in,
sporty look got popular.
The 1990s was all about loose fashion, an oversized shirts and pants with the rock music influence.
Dark, leather and overly sized clothes was the trend. Denim became famous including the long hair or
chachupoy, a straight hairstyle with middle parting at the center.
 The 21st century was a combination of different styles from different eras, but the is characterized by
the rise of spaghetti strap clothes. Women wore innerwear as outerwear. Men's fashion remained the same,
with cargo pants and oversized shirts still famous.

3. Media
• Media
One of the most important tool for information. It helps to reached out with the people for different
purposes; entertainment, news, lifestyle and others. It is one of the reasons why many Filipinos were up-to-
date on the trends not just in the Philippine set up but also around the world.
In the field of films, the first films shown in the Philippines were short features called cinematrografo
(Fernandez, 1981). Jose Rizal's life was the first feature film produced in the country but Jose Nepomuceno's
"Dalagang Bukid" was the first fulllength feature film in 1919.
Musser produced Aswang" in 1932 which became the first talking picture in the country. Dolphy, Vilma
Santos and Nora Aunor were the superstars which are always talked because of their exemplary
performances.
While on radio, the longest-running shows were "Ilaw ng Tahanan" and "Gulong ng Palad," recently
translated to television, both built on the fool proof formula of cascades of tears and flocks of martyred
women (Fernandez 1981).

GEE 106: Philippine Popular Culture

Topic: Chapter 1:Philippine Culture: What Makes the Filipinos Different from the Rest of the World
• Filipino Culture
Prepared by: Rowelyn Francisco BSED 2- Social Studies
Date:

Philippine Culture: What Makes the Filipinos Different from the Rest of the World

The Philippines is a culture in which East meets West. The Filipino people have a distinct Asian
background, with a strong Western tradition. The modern Filipino culture developed through influence from
Chinese traders, Spanish conquistadors, and American rulers. Filipino people tend to be very hospitable,
especially to Western visitors. Because of their strong ties to Spanish culture, Filipinos are emotional and
passionate about life in a way that seems more Latin than Asian. This is easily seen in the works of
comporary artists such as Rody Herrera in his painting Unahan Sa Duluhan.
The family is the basic and most important aspect of Filipino culture. Divorce is prohibited and
annulments are rare. The family is the safety net for indivuduals, especially older people, during difficult
economic times. Children will often stay with their parents into adulthood, only leaving when they get
married. Political and business ties are often influenced by family relationships.
Two traits that many foreign visitors often have a difficult time understanding are Pakikisama and Utang
na Loob. Pakikisama roughly means "getting along" and requires individuals overlook slight improprieties
or indiscretions for the sake of preserving peace within the family, personal, or business relationship. Utang
na Loob refers to the custom of paying back one favor with another. These traits emphasize the importance
that Filipino people place on maintaining pleasant interpersonal relationships and puting the needs of the
group ahead of the individual.

More than 80% of the population of the Philippines is Roman Catholic. Fiestas in honor of the patron
saint of a town are quite common. Criticism of the Catholic church is not taken lightly - and should be
avoided.
In the Philippines, people greet each other with a handshake. A smile or raised eyebrows can mean
"Hello" or "Yes". Someone can be summoned with a downward wave of the hand.

Filipino Culture
 The Filipino culture has varied influences from previous colonizations, deriving mainly from the culture
of Spain and America. You can easily notice it from the architecture to the cultural beliefs in the Philippines.
Despite all of these foreign influences, the old Asian Filipino culture has been retained and are clearly seen
in their way of life, cultural beliefs in the Philippines, Filipino customs and traditions. Wherever you go, the
Filipino culture and values are very evident and have largely been appreciated and even applauded in many
parts of the world.
Filipino culture is rich and diverse, influenced by a blend of indigenous. Family plays a central role, and
hospitality is highly valued. Festivals, like Sinulog and Ati-Atihan, showcase vibrant celebrations. Filipino
cuisine, with dishes like adobo and sinigang, reflects a mix of flavors. “Bayanihan”, the spirit of communal
unity, is deeply ingrained. The Philippies also has a strong tradition of music, dance and art, contributing to
unique cultural identity.
Filipinos are very religious in all corners of a Filipino house, you can find brazen images of crosses and
other religious paraphernalia. It is a common Filipino custom to go church every Sunday, or sometimes even
twice or three times a week
Filipinos are very respectful from the moment they are born into this world, they are already taught how
to be respectful by using these simple catchphrases—po and opo, words that end sentences when addressing
elders. They have a culture of pagmamano, which is where they raise the backs of the hands of their elders
to their foreheads as a sign of respect. When it comes to what not to say in the Phillippines you should
definitely consider weather your words are respectful to the Filipino people, especially since they have a
deep language history.

GEE 106- Philippine Popular Culture

Topic/s: Filipino Values
Music, Arts, and Literature
Prepared by: Irene B. Escovidal BSED Social Studies 2
Date:
FILIPINO VALUES
The Filipino value system or Filipino values refers to the set of values that a majority of the Filipino
have historically held important in their lives. This Philippine values system includes their own unique
assemblage of consistent ideologies, moral codes, ethical practices, etiquette and cultural and personal
values that are promoted by their society.
Positive or Acceptable Cultural Values and Practices
1. “Balikatan” System. When an individual is confronted with a problem or difficulty, everybody
1.

shares the burden of helping the person who is in need of assistance.

2. “Bayanihan” System. A certain task is effectively and easily completed if everybody shares his
time, effort and money to expedite the completion of a task.

3. “Pakikisama” of Conformity. This is a positive way of yielding to the group‘s unanimous or

majority’s decision so as to complete a task. Without it, there would be disunity in the group.

4. “Pakikiramay”. This is a sympathetic attitude to another person and it is emphasized by the

statement ―”di ka nag-iisa”.
5. Close family ties. Pagpapahalaga sa pamilya is the value that considers the interest of the family
more important than personal interest. Filipinos are willing to sacrifice prestige and even happiness for the
sake of the family.
 6. “Utang na Loob” or the sense of gratitude. One aspect of this is in gift-giving, that is, when a gift
is given, it is “utang na loob” of the recipient. Another aspect of “utang na loob” that cannot be repaid in
kind and remain outstanding throughout life.
7. Desire for Socio-Economic Improvement. Every Filipino family wants to succeed and for the
children to be successful in their aspirations. Parents feel that education can bring success to their children as
if it is the only legacy, they can give to them.
8. Hospitality value. This value is done by people welcoming visitors with warmth and enthusiasm at
home, or by inviting them to visit their homes or wherever circumstances warrant. Hospitality can promote
goodwill and cooperation.
9. Fiesta celebration. Celebration can serve very important purposes. It strengthens family loyalty and
unity; it serves to acquire new friends and allies; may heal individual‘s animosity and misunderstanding, etc.

Negative or Unacceptable Cultural Values and Practices

1. Indolence. Many Filipinos are lazy, lacking initiative and ambition. Many still subsist on asking
alms, or waiting or relief or “awa”. Their attitude is like the legendary “Juan Tamad”.
2. The “Ningas Cogon” attitude. This is an attitude with great interest and enthusiasm in the beginning
but eventually dies at the end.

3. “Mañana Habit”. This is the tomorrow-attitude or procrastination attitude. People set aside their
work for tomorrow what they can really do today.
4. “Bahala-na” attitude. This is a kind of fatalism in which the person leaves everything to fate. He
lets fate control his destiny and decides his success. This term comes from “Bathala na” which means that
God will take care of everything.
5. Indulging in Gambling. This is one favorite pastime of Filipinos which has more negative effects
than positive ones. It brings evil to society because of the negative effects they bring especially to the young
adults.
6.“Hiya” Complex. This is an uncomfortable feeling of being found in an unacceptable position or
uncomfortable feeling of doing something not socially acceptable, accompanied by a feeling of shame or
embarrassment.
7. Amor Propio (Loving oneself). This is associated closely with “hiya”. It is a Spanish term meaning
self-love, or self-esteem, the fear of losing social acceptance.
8. “Palakasan” scheme. Obtaining a job, getting a promotion, transfer, and other special privileges and
favors are often done by “palakasan”.
9. Use of euphemistic expression. Euphemistic expression is stating an unpleasant opinion, truth or
request as pleasantly as possible to please another person as not to directly hurt his ego. It is sometimes
called “white lies”.
10. The “suerte”, “tadhana”, “malas” and “buenas” forms of fatalism. These are beliefs in fate,
predestination, in horoscope and hula (fortune telling).
11. The Gaya-Gaya practice. Generally, imitation is not bad because it is one form of learning
especially if there is a good model to imitate. On the other hand, “gaya-gaya” has negative value if it
indicates lack of creativity.

12. Karma. Many Filipinos believe in karma, the Indian word which means “the law of nature”. The
saying “for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction” is referred to karma.

MUSIC, ARTS, AND LITERATURE

Music
It is the art of combining and organizing sounds along with other elements in time to create a
composition. It incorporates elements of rhythm, melody, harmony, and color to create a unique piece.
Music includes other elements like the pitch, which controls the melody and harmony, and the dynamics that
affect its texture. It’s one of humanity’s cultural aspects, usually used by humans to express emotions,
statuses, events, and stories. Music is performed using various musical instruments that can be incorporated
with multiple vocal techniques.
Early Filipino music is popular for disco music. The groups who popularized this collective genre were
more known by the name Manila Sound during the mid to late 1970s. Songs like “Awitin Mo At Isasayaw
Ko,” and “Magsayawan” by VST & Company; “Sumayaw, Sumunod,” and “Dance With Me” by The
Boyfriends; and “Annie Batungbakal,” and “Bongga Ka Day” by The Hotdogs became the national anthem
on the dancefloor.
Manila sound eventually faded then, came in artists who introduced a new kind of sentiment by belting
out ballads. These would include Rey Valera, Freddie Aguilar, and Rico J. Puno to name a few. And may we
not forget jukebox divas Imelda Papin, Claire de la Fuente, and Eva Eugenio.
The 80s and 90s ushered in the golden era for the Philippines’ music industry. Trademark songs of this
era included “On The Wings of Love” by Regine Velasquez, “Ikaw” by Sharon Cuneta, “Be My Lady" by
Martin Nievera, and “Sa’yo Lamang” by Ogie Alcasid.
Aside from these solo artists, bands became popular during this period as well. Hits like “Panalangin”
by APO Hiking Society, “Nosi Ba Lasi” by folk rock band Sampaguita, “Katawan” by sing-and-dance boy
group Hagibis were some of the most requested songs on the radio that time.
Eraserheads and Rivermaya created their own cult following with signature hits like “Ang Huling El
Bimbo” and “Kisapmata,” respectively. Don’t forget Hale with “The Day You Said Goodnight” and Cueshe
with “Stay” that ushered in the new millennium.
Pinoy hip hop began thriving too. Andrew E’s iconic “Banyo Queen,” and “Humanap Ka Nang Pangit”
were playful songs that are now considered classics.
Through time, original Pilipino music has already evolved and adapted to with the current times - from
the classic ballads, to band music, hip hop, and more.
We also gain new artists from singing competitions and reality shows. From these came Star in A
Million champion Erik Santos, Pinoy Dream Academy titleholder Yeng Constantino, and The Voice alum
Morissette Amon, to name a few.
If we had Hale and Cueshe before, fresh bands have captured the sentiments of Filipinos today. Number
one on the list is indie folk band Ben&Ben with their top songs “Kathang Isip," “Maybe The Night," and
“Pagtingin.” We also have indie rock group December Avenue who popularized sentimental songs like “Sa
Ngalan Ng Pag-Ibig," and “Huling Sandali, "and “Kung Di Rin Lang Ikaw," the last being a collaboration
with Moira Dela Torre.
IV Of Spades, of course, isn’t exempted. Because of their retro vibe and with their hit songs “Hey,
Barbara” and “Mundo”, they rose to the charts in a snap. Who could forget Munimuni with their hit “Sa
Hindi Pag-Alala,” and “Tahanan," and Up Dharma Down with “Oo,” and “Tadhana.”

New OPM also have a variety of artists with their signature singing style. There’s Moira dela Torre in
her angelic “Malaya” lullaby for the movie “Camp Sawi.” There’s I Belong To The Zoo with their tearjerker
“Sana.” Quest has his ever-famous “Walang Hanggan” that talks about a recent break-up.
The local rap scene is also alive. Gloc9’s songs are social commentaries of the current Filipino situation.
These include “Upuan," “Sirena," “Hari Ng Tondo," and “Walang Natira.” On the other hand, Shantidope
with “Nadarang," “Shanti Dope," “Materyal," and “Mau” are romantic songs dressed in rap and hiphop
beats.
With this timeline, we can confirm that OPM is truly versatile. It has evolved through time and has
proven itself adaptable to the ever-changing sentiments of the Filipinos. Listen to these Filipino originals
and see for yourself which song speaks to you the most.
Arts
Art is a visual object or experience consciously created through an expression of skill or imagination.
The term art encompasses diverse media such as painting, sculpture, printmaking, drawing, decorative
arts, photography, and installation.
The Philippines is a melting pot of cultures, each with their own unique art forms such as intricate
weavings to pottery, tattoos, and bamboo crafts, to music, dance, textile art, painting and wood carving.
Weaving,is an indigenous art form that has been a part of Filipino culture for centuries. Ilocos region,
known for its abel weaving. The abel fabric is so strong and durable, it can last for
generations. Yakan weavers of Basilan create vibrant, geometric textiles that are a feast for the
eyes. T'boli people of South Cotabato, who are famous for their t'nalak weaving. The t'nalak fabric is made
from abaca fibers and dyed with natural colors.
Pottery is one of the indigenous art forms in the Philippines that has been around for a long time. Vigan
is famous for making the burnay jars.These large, earthenware jars are created using a foot-powered wheel
and a unique process of firing in underground pits. The town of San Juan is famous for its red clay pottery,
known locally as damili. Damili pottery ranges from cooking pots and water containers to toys and
figurines, showing the versatility of this art form.
The indigenous tattoo art in the Philippines is one applied on skin. One tribe well-known for its
tattooing traditions is the Butbut tribe of Kalinga, in the northern part of the Philippines. Here, they practice
a technique known as batok. Batok tattoos are applied using a thorn and a bamboo stick. The last living
traditional tattoo artist from the Butbut tribe is Apo Whang Od. At over 100 years old, she's a living legend
and has devoted her life to preserving this indigenous art form in the Philippines.
Some of the most captivating dances in the Philippines are steeped in indigenous tradition. Take the
'Tinikling', for example. It's a dance that mimics the movements of the 'tikling' bird as it hops between grass
stems and bamboo traps. Another is the 'Bangka' dance which is a communal dance that tells the story of
daily life in a fishing village. The dancers move in unison, their bodies swaying to the rhythm of the waves.

“Spolarium” by Juan Luna, Fernando Amorsolo’s “Planting Rice”, Vicente Manansala’s “Madonna of
the Slums”, “First Mass at Limasawa” by Carlos Modesto “Botong” Villaluz Francisco’s are notable
examples in the field of painting.
In sculpture, Guillermo Tolentino’s “UP Oblation” and “Rizal Monument”, Napoleon Abueve, the
Father of Philippine scupture, behind the “Sandugo Monument” in Tagbilaran, Bohol and memorial cross
reliefs at Dambana ng Kagitingan in Mt. Samat, Bataan.

Literature
 Literature, a body of written works. The name has traditionally been applied to those imaginative
works of poetry and prose distinguished by the intentions of their authors and the
perceived aesthetic excellence of their execution.
Contemporary Philippine literature reflects a diverse group of works which are mostly grounded on
traditional folktales, socio-political histories, and real-life experiences. Such books have since promoted
Filipino cultural values, told daily struggles of locals, and have instilled a remarkable lesson.
Noli Me Tángere and El Filibusterismo by Dr. José Rizal, Mga Ibong Mandaragit by Amado V.
Hernandez, Po-on A Novel by F. Sionil Jose, Dekada ’70 by Lualhati Bautista, ABNKKBSNPLAko?! by
Bob Ong, Florante and Laura by Francisco Balagtas and Ibong Adarna written by Jose Dela Cruz or Huseng
Sisiw are the most famous books in the Philippines.
As an archipelago, the Philippines is home to several ethnic tales and legends passed on from generation
to generation. These stories and legends have since then become a part of our tradition and culture because it
is believed to be the origin of various things. 1. Ang Alamat ni Daragang Magayon , The Legend of the
Piña, (The Legend of Spider) , The Legend of Banana, and The Legend of Sampaguita.

GEE 106- Philippine Popular Culture

Topic/s: Philippine Folk Arts
Clothing
Prepared by: Eunice Francisco BSED Social Studies 2
Date:
PHILIPPINE FOLK ARTS
Do you know what folk art means?
The term “folk art” refers to art made by people who have no art instruction, and often little formal
education. Art is generally considered to be “folk art” when it is the work of untrained artists working in
rural areas. It is the skilled but simple expression of people who care more about plain truths
than fashionable trends and historic styles.

What are folk arts?

It could be paintings, carvings, furniture, textiles, metal works, masks, artifacts, and all decorative arts
made by people using traditional techniques handed down to them through the generations. Every country
and community have its own folk art. In the Philippines, we have produced several folk arts done by great
forefathers of ethnic groups. Their artwork are preserved and reproduced by the present generation in
different localities. Philippine Folk Arts Philippines has more than 80 small ethnic tribes who live in
different parts of the country. Each has its own folk art that is now part of our cultural heritage. Each
regional so produces different unique products and crafts. Some beautiful crafts or products made by our
forefathers and ethnic groups are preserved and reproduced. The bronze earring if Isneg, bronze pendant of
Manobo, leglet of Tiruray, and shield of Bagobo ares ome unique creations and works of art of people from
different ethnic groups. Our very own folk arts as part of our cultural heritage help us to have our own
national identity and national unity as well. We already had our own art even before the coming of the
Spaniards like weaving, pottery, and carving. These were handed down from one generation to the next by
our folk artist. Philippine folk arts include paintings, carving, furniture, textiles, and decorative arts. These
are mostly done by ethnic groups in different parts of the country.

To create a work of art, folk artists use different materials. These materials are called medium. Some of
the media that artists use in art creation are crayon, colored marker, clay, and other indigenous materials. In
sculpting, the artist may use different media such as wood, soap, marbles, clay, and many more. Folk
artist consider the elements of design such as: Line, color, texture, value, space, shape, and form in planning
their act creation.
They also combine visual elements by using principle of designs. It is a guide for
planning artworks that expresses ideas or feelings. Principles of design include; Balance, rhythm,
proportion, emphasis, unity, harmony, and variety.
The traditional folk arts in the Philippines according to the different categories of art.
A. FOLK ARCHITECTURE
These are simple structures built of local materials and available tools to provide shelter for its
inhabitants.
1. Bahay Kubo/Nipa Hut
2. Bale or Ifugao House
3. Ivatan House in Batanes
4. Torogabs or Marano’s House
5. Badjao stilt Houses and Houseboats
B. MARITIME TRANSPORTS
These are marine vessels made for the transport of goods and people living by sea and other
waterways in the surrounding regions.
1. Wooden Banca
2. Vinta
C. WEAVING, TEXTILE MAKING, AND FABRIC ART
Early Filipinos weaved using fibers from abaca, cotton, pineapple and, bark. Before the final garment
or fabric is produced, the fibers were first knotted, boiled, dyed, and dried and weaved using hands and a
wooden platform.
1. Pina fabric
2. T’nalak woven cloth
3. Tingkep baskets
4. Hinabol
5. Yakan weaved cloth
6. The Tapis of the Kalinga Tribe
D. CARVING
Paete in Laguna, the woodcarving capital of the Philippines. Wood is the common material that is
widely used in the country.
E. PERFORMING ART
These may be folk dances and a music which are developed by an individual or groups of people that
reflect their traditions and culture.

F. LITERATURE
It refers to the traditional oral literature of various ethnic groups of the country. It includes the story
of “Malakas at Maganda” and epics such as “Hushud ni Aliguyon”, “Darangan”, and the likes.
G. GRAPHIC AND PLASTIC ARTS
Graphic arts are mainly two=dimensional (2D), like sketching, painting, photography, and,
calligraphy. Plastic arts include sculpture or ceramics which have three dimensions (3D).
H. POTTERY
Native Filipinos created pottery since 3500 years ago. These potteries serve as a secondary burial jars
to hold the deceased. Some of these were decorated with anthropomorphic designs.
1. Manunggul Jar
2. Maitum Anthropomorphic Potteries
OTHER FOLK ARTS
Taka of Paete
These takas are sold side by side with woodcarvings in shops in this town known for its fine
woodcarvers and visual artists.
HISTORY OF TAKA MAKING
The exact history of taka-making in Paete is difficult to trace. Old folks claim that Mexican friars
introduced taka-making to the pueblo of Paete some centuries ago as a cottage industry for the female
population while the males worked on woodcarving. This perhaps explains why the taka of Paete is linked
with the Mexican piñata. While the piñata is decorated with tear up colored paper, the taka of Paete is
individually hand-painted with the happiest and vibrant colors and embellished with floral and fancy
designs. The art of taka-making begins with the process by hand carving hardwood sculptures that becomes
the takaans or the actual mold where layers upon layers of paper are glued, sundried before the papier-mâché
figures are hand-painted.
Anting-anting in quaipo
SARI-SARING ANTING-ANTING.
The Evangelista Street side of Quiapo Church is teeming with vendors of amulets and talismans that
allegedly have magical and supernatural powers. However, vendors are vague about their powers, saying
only that they are harbingers of success and provide protection to the bearer against bodily harm, illness, evil
spirits, and witchcraft.
ANTING-ANTING. Locally referred to as anting-anting, they come in various forms. Professor Nenita
Pambid explains that the anting-anting is an amulet, inscribed or engraved on a certain object. It could be an
oracion or prayer written on a piece of paper, folded and kept in the wallet, or sewn in a small cloth pouch,
or worn pinned on clothing.
MEDALLIONS. The Tagalog-English Dictionary by Jose Garcia Panganiban suggests that the word
anting-anting was derived from the Malaysian anting, which means dangling, and in Javanese, anting-anting
means ear pendants.

Filipino Handicrafts under the Bridge in Quiapo

ILALIM NG TULAY. Honey-combed under this steel and concrete bridge are stores filled from floor
to ceiling with local crafts made from indigenous materials. These handicrafts were sourced from various
tribal and cultural communities throughout the country.
 TRADITIONAL HANDICRAFTS. Our country has a long tradition of producing handicrafts made
from natural materials. Blessed with rich natural resources, people from the different cultural communities
discovered how to fashion useful and beautiful things out of wood, bamboo, rattan, abaca, coconut shells,
capiz, shells, and object abundant in nature.
Skills in basket weaving, wood carving, shells craft, and the technology in using different hand tools to
create local crafts were developed and passed on to different generations.
Quiapo Golden Mosque
ISLAMIC ARCHITECTURE. One of the outstanding influences of Islam was in architecture. The
Alhambra in Spain, Hagia Sofia in Turkey, and the Taj Mahal in India, are some of the few finest
architectural wonders of the world. In the Philippines, mosque are built following the classic Muslim lines;
externally, a onion-shaped dome topped by a crescent and the minaret, internally, the prayer-niche that
marks the direction of Mecca towards which all Muslims turn in prayer.
MOSQUE DEL GLOBO DEL ORO. In the Muslim Town of Quiapo, the Mosque del Globo del Oro
with its dome, painted in gold and vibrant geometric designs is the largest mosque in Manila. This
architectural landmark was built in 1976, under the direction of then first lady Imelda Marcos. It is said that
the mosque was built to impress visiting Libyan President Muammar Khadafya. However, for some reason,
Khadafy’s state visit to Manila was cancelled.
The mosque’s spacious floor area are divided by low columns supporting the pointed arches. The wide
arched-windows allow air to circulate freely around the mosques. The natural light that fills the soft yellow
walls and gleaming marble floors provides a mellow atmosphere suitable for prayer.

Folk clothing in the Philippines.

The culture of the Philippines is rich and diverse. Today, we’ll talk about the traditional clothing of the
Philippines and, in particular, about each garment separately. Let’s find out what did the Filipinos wear in
the past and which folk garments they prefer today. Also, we’ll touch upon such topics as the traditional
attire of Filipino Muslims, local tribal outfits, and other interesting folk clothes.
Main Filipino folk garments
Baro’t Saya - This is the traditional clothing of the Filipino, one of the unique feminine and simply
beautiful national costumes in Asia. This dress can be seen only in the Philippines. The baro’t saya is
considered to be a “filipiniana” – product of Filipino culture.
Barong Tagalog - The barong tagalog (or simply barong, from the word “baro”) is an embroidered formal
garment of the Philippines. It is a male shirt, basically.
Kimona - A translucent, often embroidered, women’s blouse with extended sleeves. It is usually worn over
an inner garment.

Maria Clara dress - Maria Clara’s dress was named after a mestiza heroine, a woman from one of the
novels of popular Filipino author Dr. Jose Rizal. Its origin was the national costume of Filipino women,
which is baro’t (shirt) saya (skirt).
Mestiza dress - It was made popular by the former First lady of the Philippines Imelda Marcos. Some
people even called it “Imelda dress” or “terno”. The Mestiza dress is known for its elegance and butterfly
sleeves. It is usually worn for formal occasions.
Terno - The Filipino terno alludes to the matching of blouse and skirt, joined at the waist to form a one-
piece creation, with both bodice and skirt made of the same material.
Patadyong dress - Like the malong, the patadyong has a variety of uses. Primarily, women used it as a
tucked-in skirt, topped by a kimona (thin cotton blouse). Women in the countryside or rural areas wear the
patadyong as a sort of kerchief, shawl, or even to shade or cover themselves from prying eyes.

Tribal folk garments in the Philippines

T’boli clothing
They are, basically, a hill tribe, preferring the mountainous area of Allah Valley. Their culture is rich in
literature, art, and music. Their brass works and tinalak/t’nalak (cloth woven from dyed abacca fiber, with
geometric patterns said to be from the dreams of the weavers) are a constant source of pride for people of
Mindanao.
Igorot clothing
One of the native Filipino tribes (from the northern Philippines) wear this costume for their daily
activities. More accessories are used for special occasions.
Dress of women of Ifugao
The females of this tribe wear a wrap-around skirt called the “ampuyou” or “tolge”. The ordinary tapis
consists of a blue cloth with narrow white horizontal stripes and two broken lines of red triangles and is
worn just above the knee. This skirt is for working in the rice paddies but is not in fashion at present.

Other Filipino folk garments

Muslim attire
This attire is worn by the Muslims who live in the southern part of the Philippines. As you can see from
the costume, it shows the mix of Arab, Malaysian, and Chinese. The batik design is common and silk cloth
is also used with golden threads. Elaborate umbrella makes a nice fashion statement, usually used by a
Muslim princess.

Malong of Muslim
The Sablay (official academic costume of the University of the Philippines Diliman) is inspired by the
malong of Muslim Mindanao. It has the colors of the University: maroon and green, as well as yellow-gold
which stands for the high standards of values and excellence.

GEE 106- Philippine Popular Culture

Topic/s: Culture and Traditions of Philippines: Celebrations
Media, Popular Culture, and their Relationship
Prepared by: Ronnlyn Joy Articulo BSED Social Studies 2
Date:

Culture and Traditions of Philippines: Celebrations

 The Philippines is s country known for its vibrant culture and rich traditions. One of the best ways to
experience the essence of Filipino culture is by participating in the numerous festival events held throughout
the year. These festivals showcase the country’s diverse heritage, colorful traditions, and strong sense of
community. From religious processions to street parades, the festival events in the Philippines offer a unique
and immersive experience for both local and tourists.
Spanish colonization of the Philippines has left its mark in the form of many of its customs and
traditions. A large number of festivities are religious, such as Christmas or Holy week, which are celebrated
intensely. On the different islands their own patrons and saints are preserved and honored. This is the case of
Santo Niňo, one of the famous and protagonist of some of the Philippines most popular parties. If the
Filipino celebrations are characterized by anything,, it is their colorful atmosphere, happiness, good
atmosphere and elaborate body painting and mask wearing.

Why are celebrations important for the Filipinos?

Each holiday serves to strengthen pride of their own histories and cultures. As people continue these
celebrations, they are reminded of who they are, where they came from, and their society’s beliefs and
values. Along with this, cultural awareness is also promoted.

What are the famous celebration events in the Philippines?

1. Sinulog Festival: Honoring the Santo Niňo

The Sinulog Festival, held annually on the third Sunday of January in Cebu City, is one of the most
celebrated religious and cultural events in the Philippines. The festival pays homage to the Santo Niňo, the
child of Jesus, and the commemorates the Filipino people’s conversion to Christianity. The highlight of the
festival is the grand street parade, where participants in vibrant costumes dance to the rhythm of drums and
trumpets. The Sinulog Festival is a visual sectacle that showcases the devotion and unity of the Filipino
people.

2. Panagbenga Festival: Blooming of Flowers

Dubbed as the “Flower Festival”, the Panagbenga Festival is held at Baguio City, the summer capital of the
Philippines. Taking place in February, the festival celebrates the blooming of flowers and the abundance of
nature. Colorful floats adorned with flowers parade through the streets, accompanied by street dancers in
traditional attire. The Panagbenga Festival is a feast for the senses and a testament to the beauty of nature.

3. Kadayawan Festival: Abundance and Thanksgiving

The KAdayawan Festival is an annual event held in Davao City, known as the “ Fruit Basket of the
Philippines”. celebrated every August, the festival is a grand showcase of the region’s rich agricultural
harvest and cultural heritage. The streets come alive with street dancing competitions, floral floats, and
trade fairs. The Kadayawan Festival is a celebration of abundance and thanksgiving, highlighting the
bountiful blessings bestowed upon the land.

4. Pahiyas Festival: A Colorful Harvest Celebration

In the province of Quezon, the Pahiyas Festival is held every May to celebrate the bountiful harvest season.
The festival is characterized by vibrant decorations made from rice, fruits, vegetables, and other agricultural
products.

Houses are adorned with colorful rice grains, kiping (rice wafers),and various agricultural produce, creating
a pictureque scene. The Pahiyas Festival is a visual feast and a way for the locals to express gratitude for the
blessing of the nature.

5. Ati- Atihan Festival: Mother of All Philippine Festivals

The Ati- Atihan Festival, dubbed as the “Mother of All Festivals”, is held at Kalibo, Aklan, during third
week of January. The festival is a fusion of religious devotion and cultural merriment. Participants paint
their faces with black soot and wear traditional Visayan attire, imittaing the native Aeta people. The streets
transform into a vibrant sea of revelers, dancing and chanting to the beat of drums. The Ati-Atihan Festival
is a trie testament to the Filipino spirit of camaraderie and festivity.

6. Moriones Festival
this extravagant festival takes place on the island of Marinduque during Easter Holy Week, usually April.
Participants dress in Roman costumes and reenact the story of the conversion of the Centurion Longuinus,
who pierced the side of Jesus with his spear before being beheaded.

7. Christmas
The predominantly Catholic Philippines has the longest Christmas season in the world, which runs from
mid-December through to the first week of January. Festivals start with a series of Midnight Masses known
as Simbang Gabi, leading up to a Christmas Eve Feast at midnight followed by Christmas Day. All big
family celebrations, it is a time for eating, drinking, and gift giving. There are numerous pageants, caroling
and decorations made of traditional star shaped bamboo lanterns, symbolizing the Star of Bethlehem.

8. Commemoration of Ninoy Aquino

Ninoy Aquino was a Filipino journalist and politician killed during Ferdinand Marcos’ dictatorship when he
was at Manila Airport, returning home after three years of exile in the United States. Every August 21 his
death is commemorated along, with the fall of the dictatorship, with parades in the capital.

9. Santacruzan and Flores de Mayo

On this occasion, which marks the arrival of spring, the Philippines is full of flowers. The women share
them in the streets as a symbol of virtue, the sidewalks are filled with petals and a festival queen is chosen.
In this month the religious festivals of Santacruzan in Manila takes place which is a recreation of the arrival
of Santa Helena to the Holy Land.

Media, Popular Culture, and their Relationship

Media and Popular Culture is an an international, peer-reviewed, open-access journal that focuses on
the various aspects of popular culture and how it is intertwined with media. Media and popular culture aims
to study this distance between the henemony of the elite class and the struggle of the lower class, how media
has been playing an effective role in bridging this gap. Interdisciplinary in nature, the journal pays attention
to the interconnection of popular culture with ethnicity, gender, identity, and social class.
The relationship between mass media and popular culture is one of influence. Because of the efficacy of
mass media campaigns, mass media influences trends in pop culture.

How does culture spread through media?

The most important role played by mass media is in diffusion of culture. The work and beliefs of
religious groups and a hundred others pertaining to the way human beings behave are constantly reported
and discussed in the press, in books and on television and radio programs.

Popular culture and media are deeply interconnected, with media playing a significant role in
spreading and shaping popular culture. Media, including television, film, music, social media, and the
internet, acts as a platform for the dissemination of popular culture trends, ideas, and values.

For example, the rise of social media platform like Instagram and TikTok has enabled the rapid
spread of popular culture trends, from fashion and beauty standards to dance challenges and viral memes.
These platforms provide a space for individuals to share and consume popular culture content, thereby
influencing and shaping broader societal trends.

Television and film also play a crucial role in disseminating popular culture. For instance, the global
popularity of American TV shows and movies has contributed to the spread of American popular culture
around the world, impacting fashion, language, and societal norms in various countries.
 Music in another significant aspect of popular culture that is spread through media. The rise of
streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music has made it easier for artists for reach global audiences,
thereby influencing popular culture on a global scale.
In summary, media acts as a powerful vehicle for spreading popular culture, influencing societal
norms, and shaping global trends through various platforms and channels.

GEE 106- Philippine Popular Culture

Topic/s: How Media Affects Culture and How Culture Affects Media
Culture Affects Media
Prepared by: Christian Paul Mayuga BSED Social Studies 2
Date:

Definition of Media and Culture

Media (from Latin word medi means “middle.”), the plural of medium, broadly describes all channels
of communication, including everything from printed paper to digital data. Media comprises news, art,
educational content, and any form of information that can reach or influence people, including television,
radio, books, magazines, and the internet.

The concept of media means vehicle where concept, information, education, etc. that takes place
through the transfer to individuals or communities. It is defined as the whole of visual and audio tools that
have basic responsibilities.

On the other hand, culture (from the Latin cultura stemming from colere, meaning "to cultivate")can be
defined as the societal norms people encounter within their community. A cultural norm can be defined as
something acceptable within society. For example, it is acceptable by many Muslim people for women
within that culture to be seen with a Hijab, or head covering.

How Media Influences Culture and How Culture Influences Media

Media influences culture and society by allowing for a very rapid exchange of ideas. Cultures share
concepts with one another far more readily than in the premodern period; it is difficult to overstate the
importance of this rapid cultural sharing on cultural development.
Through the media, ideas concerning medicine, politics, religions, and any number of other important
subjects can spread and take root across the globe with profound consequences for cultures and societies.

Media affects culture

The media affects people in varied ways, some are positive and others are negative.

Positive Aspects:
• The media shows us constructive information. It can boost self-esteem, heighten interest levels in a
particular subject, or encourage them.

• It is a getaway to places unknown, foreign, and magical with knowledge of what goes on around us
without being physically present in that place.
• Video games today are increasingly active- oriented, making kids get off their behind and engage in games
that require physical movement.

• Media also help us engage with other people around the world, and be more open and understanding
towards other cultures.

Negative Aspects:

• Kids are influenced easily by what they see on television or the Internet, mimicking such acts (if not as
extreme, though on the lines of violence) on elders, or kids their age.

• Obesity is on the rise for kids who plant themselves in front of the television, not budging for hours on end.

• The media can influence one to do things that aren't moral, like getting into substance abuse.

Culture affects media

• "culture [is] the set of learned behaviors, beliefs, attitudes, values and ideals that are characteristic of a
particular society or population.

• Media is influenced by culture as much as the programming or stories that they are enveloped within.

• Media cannot escape the cultural influence. Culture provides media with sources for content.

• All contents are derived from culture including entertainment, news and advertisement.

Chapter 2 : CONCEPT OF CULTURE

CONTENT:
What is Culture?
Other Filipino Culture
1. Negative Filipino Values
2. Superstitious Beliefs
3. Philippine Mythology

DISCUSSION
What is Culture?

❁ CULTURE is derived from the Latin word cultus which means “care “ a care and attention
provided to a human person as he grows into a mature person.

❁ CULTURE is a design, a recipe or road map, for living that guides the behavior of members of
society. Culture is a very powerful force that affects the lives of the members of a society.

❁ CULTURE is a social heritage of a society which is transmitted from one generation to another
through language.

❁ CULTURE is the sum of total of the learned behavior of a group of people that are generally
considered to be the tradition of that people and are transmitted from generation to generation.

❁ CULTURE is a collective programming of the mind that distinguishes the members of one group or
category of people from another.

❁ CULTURE is the whole idea that provides a blue print for living. It is a powerful force that lived in
all peoples that tells us what is right from wrong.

Culture is a way of life. The food you eat, the clothes you wear, the language you speak in and the God you
worship all are aspects of culture. In very simple terms, we can say that culture is the embodiment of the
way in which we think and do things. It is also the things that we have inherited as members of society. All
the achievements of human beings as members of social groups can be called culture. Art, music, literature,
architecture, sculpture, philosophy, religion and science can be seen as aspects of culture. However, culture
also includes the customs, traditions, festivals, ways of living and one’s outlook on various issues of life.
Culture thus refers to a human-made environment which includes all the material and non- material products
of group life that are transmitted from one generation to the next. There is a general agreement among social
scientists that culture consists of explicit and implicit patterns of behaviour acquired by human beings.
These may be transmitted through symbols, constituting the distinctive achievements of human groups,
including their embodiment as artefacts. The essential core of culture thus lies in those finer ideas which are
transmitted within a group-both historically derived as well as selected with their attached value. More
recently, culture denotes historically transmitted patterns of meanings embodied in symbols, by means of
which people communicate, perpetuate and develop their knowledge about and express their attitudes
toward life.
Culture is the expression of our nature in our modes of living and thinking. It may be seen in our literature,
in religious practices, in recreation and enjoyment. Culture has two distinctive components, namely, material
and non-material. Material culture consists of objects that are related to the material aspect of our life such
as our dress, food, and household goods. Non-material culture refers to ideas, ideals, thoughts and belief.
Culture varies from place to place and country to country. Its development is based on the historical process
operating in a local, regional or national context. For example, we differ in our ways of greeting others, our
clothing, food habits, social and religious customs and practices from the West. In other words, the people of
any country are characterized by their distinctive cultural traditions.

Elements of Culture
The major elements of culture are:
 Symbol
Every culture is filled with symbols, or things that stand for something else and that often evoke various
reactions and emotions. Some symbols are actually types of nonverbal communication, while other symbols
are in fact material objects.
 Nonverbal symbols
Nonverbal symbols are communication types that do not involve spoken words.
A common one is shaking hands, which is done in some societies but not in others. It commonly conveys
friendship and is used as a sign of both greeting and departure. Probably all societies have nonverbal
symbols we call gestures, movements of the hands, arms, or other parts of the body that are meant to convey
certain ideas or emotions. However, the same gesture can mean one thing in one society and something quite
different in another society (Axtell, 1998).

 Material Objects

Material culture, on the other hand, includes all the physical objects that define a society, such as tools,
technology, clothing, eating utensils, and means of transportation.
As these examples indicate, shared symbols, both nonverbal communication and tangible objects, are an
important part of any culture but also can lead to misunderstandings and even hostility. These problems
underscore the significance of symbols for social interaction and meaning.
 Language

Language is crucial to communication and thus to any society’s culture. Language is an integral part of
any culture. It helps us to communicate, express ourselves, share knowledge, learn about other cultures and
preserve our own cultural values. Language is more than just words; it embodies the values, beliefs,
customs, and traditions of a particular culture. It shapes how we perceive the world around us and influences
our thoughts, behaviors, and interactions with others. Through language, we express our unique identities
and assert our place within society.

 Norms
Norms are agreed-upon expectations and rules by which a culture guides the behavior of its members
in any given situation. Cultural norms are standards that govern behavior in a particular society . These
are shared beliefs about acceptable behavior, which can exist as informal expectations or as codified laws.
Norms are often divided into two types, formal norms and informal norms. Formal norms, also
called mores (MOOR-ayz) and laws, refer to the standards of behavior considered the most important in any
society.

 Formal norms
Formal norms are established by an authority and are usually codified into rules and regulations that apply to
all members of a social group or institution. They are enforceable and punishable when broken. These norms
involve normative attitudes and the knowledge of those attitudes.
 Informal norms
Informal norms are the unwritten rules that govern social behavior.They are a casual behavior to
which an individual generally conforms. They are not written into law.
 Values
Values are a culture’s standard for discerning what is good and just in society. Values are deeply embedded
and critical for transmitting and teaching a culture’s beliefs.
Values help shape a society by suggesting what is good and bad, beautiful and ugly, to be sought or avoided.
It is also often suggest how people should behave, but they don’t accurately reflect how people actually do
behave.
 Artifacts
A cultural artifact is any item that contains important information about the people and the culture of a
society. A cultural artifact is also known as a social artifact. The word "artifact" comes from the Latin word
"arte factus," which means "made by human agency by skill or craft."
 Cultural artifacts are any things (such as objects, writings, artwork) which give information about the
people and the culture by whom the artifact was used. For example, if archaeologists discover a cooking
utensil from a lost or ancient group of people, they are able to determine many things about the culture
which used it, such as what they ate, how advanced their tools were, and how they prepared their food.
This information, in turn, can provide insight about the hunting habits, food practices, and social
customs (often connected to food and eating) of the people.

Kinds of Culture
 Material Culture
Material Culture refers to the physical objects, artifacts, and spaces that people create and use to define
their culture. These items are tangible and observable, embodying the values, beliefs, norms, and
technologies of a society.
Examples of Material Culture:
Material culture can manifest in numerous forms:
Architecture: The buildings, monuments, and spaces people create.
Art: Paintings, sculptures, pottery, and other artistic creations.
Technology: Tools and machinery.
Clothing: Traditional dresses.
Food: Specific cuisines associated with cultures.

 Non-Material Culture
Non-material culture refers to the intangible aspects of a society’s culture, including values, norms,
language, beliefs, and symbolic meanings. It represents the unseen spiritual and intellectual substance of a
society’s culture
Examples of Non-material Culture:
Non-material culture encompasses a broad range of elements, such as:
Values: The deeply ingrained principles that guide behavior.
Norms: The expectations or rules within a society.
Language: The spoken and written words.
Beliefs: Religious, spiritual, or philosophical convictions.
Symbols: Items or signs that carry particular meanings.

8 CHARACTERISTICS OF CULTURE:
1. CULTURE IS LEARNED AND ACQUIRED
absolutely, one of the fundamental aspects of culture is that it is learned and acquired. Culture is not
innate or genetically transmitted; rather, it is passed down from generation to generation through a
process of social learning. Acquiring culture after we are born is called enculturation.

2. CULTURED IS SHARED AND TRANSMITTED

The shared and transmitted nature of culture is central to understanding how cultures maintain continuity
over time and space, and how they evolve.
3. CULTURE IS ADAPTIVE OR DYNAMIC

This simply means that cultures interact and change. Because most cultures are in contact with other
cultures, they exchange ideas and symbols. All cultures change, otherwise, they would have problems
adapting to changing environments. And because cultures are integrated, if one component in the system
changes, it is likely that the entire system must adjust.

4. CULTURE IS CUMULATIVE
Culture exists as endless process. In its historical growth it tends to become cumulative. Culture is s
‘growing whole’ which incorporates in itself, the achievements of the past and the present and makes
provision for the longer term achievements of mankind.

5. CULTURE IS IDEATIONAL
Culture is an ideal pattern of behavior which the members are expected to follow. Thus, the members of
society see society from the standpoint of culture.
The term "ideational" refers to the realm of ideas, concepts, and beliefs. When we say that culture is
ideational, we are emphasizing that culture is not just about tangible artifacts or practices but also involves a
complex system of ideas, beliefs, values, and symbols that shape the way individuals within a society
perceive and interpret the world.
6. CULTURE GRATIFIES HUMAN NEEDS
The concept that culture gratifies human needs suggests that culture plays a significant role in fulfilling
various fundamental needs and requirements of individuals within a society. This idea highlights the ways in
which culture meets not only practical needs but also psychological, social, and emotional needs.
All humans have the same basic physical needs, for example, food, sleep, and shelter, but the way that they
meet those needs is based on culture. For example, everyone needs food. But different cultures eat at
different times during the day, prepare food differently, and eat different foods.
7. CULTURE IS SOCIAL
When we say that "culture is social," we are emphasizing the collective and shared nature of culture,
highlighting its deep connection to social interactions, relationships, and shared experiences within a group
of people. This concept underscores that culture is not an individual phenomenon but rather a set of shared
beliefs, values, customs, behaviors, and artifacts that exist within a social context.
8. CULTURE IS INTEGRATION
It refers to the process in which individuals or groups adopt elements or aspects of another culture while still
maintaining their own cultural identity. This process involves a blending or fusion of cultural elements rather
than a complete assimilation or rejection.

LAYERS OF CULTURE
 The national level: (associated with the nation as a whole)
The national level of layers of culture refers to the different aspects of culture that are specific to a particular
nation or country. It includes the shared values, beliefs, traditions, customs, language, and behaviors that are
unique to a nation and its people. These cultural layers help define the identity and heritage of a nation, and
they shape the way people interact, communicate, and live their lives within that country. The national level
of culture is influenced by historical events, geography, politics, religion, and other factors that contribute to
the formation of a nation’s distinct cultural characteristics.
 The regional level: (associated with ethnic, linguistic, or religious differences that exist within a nation)
The regional level of layers of culture refers to the cultural elements that are specific to a particular region or
group of regions within the country. It represents the unique cultural characteristics, practices, traditions, and
identities that are distinct to a specific geographical area or region.
The regional level of layers of culture in the Philippines highlights the diversity and richness of the country’s
cultural heritage. It showcases the unique identities and traditions that have evolved within each region,
contributing to the overall cultural tapestry of the Philippines.
 The gender level-( associated with gender differences (female vs. Male)
The gender level of layers of culture refers to the cultural elements and dynamics related to gender roles,
expectations, and identities within the society. It encompasses the ways in which gender influences social
norms, behaviors, and relationships in Filipino culture.
 The generation level-( associated with the differences between grandparents and parents, parents and
children)
The generation level of culture in the Philippines refers to how generational differences influence attitudes,
beliefs, behaviors, and cultural practices. It includes aspects such as traditional vs. modern values, cultural
transmission, technology and digital culture, language use, changing family dynamics, cultural adaptation to
global influences, and social and political activism. Generational differences contribute to the dynamic
nature of culture as it evolves across different generations.
 The social class level: (associated with educational opportunities and differences in occupation)
The social class level of culture in the Philippines refers to how social class or socioeconomic status
influences lifestyles, values, behaviors, and opportunities. It impacts economic disparities, education,
lifestyle choices, cultural preferences, and access to resources. Social class shapes cultural experiences and
opportunities within the society.
 The corporate level- (associated with the particular culture of an organization. Applicable to those who
are employed).
The corporate level of culture in the Philippines refers to the cultural elements within the business
environment. It includes values such as a strong work ethic, respect for authority, teamwork, face-to-face
communication, and a focus on work-life balance. Corporate social responsibility is also valued, with
businesses engaging in initiatives that benefit the community.
 FUNCTIONS OF CULTURE
1. It serves as a “trademark” of the people in a society. It serves as a distinguishing mark of one group of
people to another. It characterizes the cultural traits of the people in a certain society.
2. It gives meaning to man’s existence. There is no society that does not have culture. Through culture, the
Existence of the members of society becomes more meaningful and purposive.
3. Culture unifies diverse behavior. Each individual behavior that is brought into the society is unified and
Coordinated with other individual‘s behavior making it the entire culture of society. There is unity in a
diversity of behavior.
4. Culture provides social solidarity. It develops loyalty and devotion for a common national pride.
5. Culture establishes social personality. Despite differences among individuals, there is only one social
personality that is produced in a society.
6. Culture provides systematic behavioral pattern. Individuals are governed by culture. Each culture consists
of one norm as basis for all individuals to observe. Consequently, the behavioral pattern of individuals
become coherent, and consistent.
7. Culture predicts social behavior. Since knowledge and ideas are internalized by the members of a
particular society, the culture of the members can be the basis of predicting the behavior of the members in
the society.
8. Culture provides social structure category. The existing culture of the people in a certain society could be
the basis of judging the kind of social structure existing in that society.
MODES OF ACQUIRING CULTURE
Some ways of acquiring culture are as follows:
1. Imitation- The process of socialization plays a very important role in the development of every
individual. As the child grows, he imitates the things around him.
2. Indoctrination or Suggestions- This may take the form of formal training or informal teaching.
Formally, the person learns from school. Informally, he may acquire those behaviors from listening or
watching, reading, attending training activities or through interaction.
3. Conditioning- Through the social norms prevailing in one’s social and cultural milieu, the individual
acquires a certain pattern of beliefs, values, behavior, and actions through the process of conditioning.
Adaptation of Culture- is the knowledge or behaviour that enables human or groups to adjust, survive,
thrive to their environment. One way human culturally adapt to their environment is through the use of tools.
Cultures are many and they vary. Many of the cultures of the world have been integrated into the personality
of an individual in many ways.

1. Parallelism- same culture may take place in two or more different places.
2. Diffusion- refers to those behavioral patterns that pass back and forth form one culture to another.
3. Convergence -when two or more cultures are fused or merged into one culture making it different from
the original culture.
4. Fission- when people break away from their original culture and start developing a different culture of
their own.
5. Acculturation-individuals incorporate the behavioral patterns of other cultures into their own either
voluntarily or by force. Voluntary acculturation occurs through imitation, borrowing, or personal contact
with other people.
6. Assimilation- when the culture of a larger society is adopted by a smaller society, that smaller society
assumes some of the culture of the larger or host society.
7. Accommodation- is when one culture integrates into another without losing its identity.
Cultural Relativism- is the opposite of ethnocentrism. Cultural relativism is a cultural concept based on the
idea that culture is relative that is no culture in a society is perfect, good or bad.
BENEFITS OF CULTURAL RELATIVISM

 Encourage people to be open minded

 Promotes tolerance
 Promotes cooperation
 Makes people respectful

CRITICISMS OF CULTURAL RELATIVISM

 Make a person or community feel superior

 Cause a hindrance to reform
 Not logical
 Cause conflict and confusion
 Leads to soft universalism

Cultural Ethnocentrism- is a belief that one‘s culture is superior, right, and normal than other cultures. The
members of that society regard themselves as having the best culture in terms of values, traditions, traits,
customs, and other cultural patterns.
Cultural ethnocentrism has advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages
1. It serves as a source of pride, well-being and security of a group
2. It may strengthen group morale
3. It enhances group solidarity and individual self-esteem; and
4. It increases the groups ‘appreciation of and commitment to one‘s culture. Conversely,
Disadvantages:
1. It may cause inter-group conflicts and problems of all sorts
2. It may lead to social intolerance and prejudice due to in-group and out-group feeling
3. It may cause one group to be isolated and eventually stagnate for being condemned as an inferior
group.
ETHNOCENTRISM VS. CULTURAL RELATIVISM

ETHNOCENTRISM CULTURAL RELATIVISM

Ethnocentrism is judging other cultures based
on the preconceptions originating in the
standards and customs of one's own culture
Involves looking at another culture from the
perspective of one's own culture
An ethnocentric individual will believe that his
Cultural relativism is the notion that a culture
should be understood on its own terms, not
using standards of another culture
Involves looking at another culture by its own
perspective instead of one's own culture
A person who believes in cultural relativism
 culture is better, 'correct and 'normal' understands that one culture is not better than
another
Filipino culture is rich with positive and acceptable values and practices that are deeply ingrained in the
society. Here are some examples of Filipino cultural values:
1. Bayanihan: This is the spirit of communal unity and cooperation. Filipinos are known for helping
and supporting one another, especially during times of need or celebration.
2. Pakikisama: This value emphasizes the importance of harmonious relationships and getting along
with others. Filipinos value social connections and place great importance on maintaining good
relationships with family, friends, and colleagues.
3. Utang na Loob: This value is about gratitude and indebtedness. Filipinos believe in repaying acts of
kindness and showing gratitude to those who have helped them in any way.
4. Respect for elders: Filipinos have a strong sense of respect for their elders. They value the wisdom
and experience of older generations and show deference to them.
5. Strong family ties: Family is at the center of Filipino culture. Filipinos prioritize their family
relationships and often have close-knit extended families. They value spending time with their loved
ones and supporting each other.
6. Hospitality: Filipinos are known for their warm and welcoming nature. They go out of their way to
make guests feel comfortable and are generous in sharing what they have.
7. Hiya: This value is about shame and avoiding actions that may bring shame or embarrassment to
oneself or one’s family. Filipinos are conscious of their reputation and strive to maintain a good
image in the community.
8. Malasakit: This value encompasses compassion, empathy, and concern for others. Filipinos often
show care and support for those in need, whether it’s within their family, community, or even
strangers.
9. Paghahanda: Filipinos value preparedness and being ready for any situation. Whether it’s preparing
for a celebration, an important event, or even natural disasters, Filipinos believe in being proactive
and ready to face challenges.
10. Pagpapakumbaba: Humility is highly valued in Filipino culture. Filipinos are encouraged to be
modest, not boastful, and to avoid arrogance or showing off.
11. Pagtitiwala sa Diyos: Faith and spirituality play a significant role in Filipino culture. Many Filipinos
are deeply religious and have a strong belief in God. They find comfort and guidance in their faith.
12. Pagiging masayahin: Filipinos are known for their joyful and vibrant spirit. They find joy in simple
pleasures, celebrate festivities with enthusiasm, and have a positive outlook on life
13. Strong sense of community: Filipinos have a strong sense of community and often come together to
support and help one another. This can be seen in various community events, celebrations, and
volunteer work.
14. Resilience: Filipinos have a resilient spirit and the ability to bounce back from adversity. This value
is evident in the face of natural disasters and challenging situations, where Filipinos show strength
and determination.
15. Strong Faith: Religion plays a significant role in Filipino culture, with the majority of Filipinos
being Roman Catholic. Filipinos often demonstrate strong religious devotion, participating in
religious ceremonies, and incorporating faith into their daily lives.
16. Education: Education is highly valued in Filipino culture, and there is a strong emphasis on the
pursuit of knowledge and academic achievement. Filipinos recognize the importance of education in
personal growth and success.
Other Filipino Culture (NEGATIVE FILIPINO VALUES)
✾ BAHALA NA” ATTITUDE
A Filipino trait characterized by retreating or withdrawal from certain undertaking and leaving
everything to God to interfere and determine the outcome of his deeds.

✾ LOVE FOR GAMBLING

A Filipino trait characterized by love and over use of betting or gambling.

✾ BLUE-SEAL MENTALITY
A Filipino value showing high admiration and preference to foreign produced goods over local
ones.

✾ CRAB MENTALITY
A Filipino attitude characterized by an attempt to “pull down” someone who has achieved success
beyond the others.

✾ FILIPINO TIME
A Filipino attitude of impreciseness towards time.

✾ GAYA-GAYA ATTITUDE
A Filipino attitude of imitating or copying other.

✾ KAPALARAN VALUES
A Filipino trait of accepting his fate by believing that everything is written in his palm.

✾ MAÑANA HABIT
Delaying or setting aside a certain task assigned on the next day although it can be done today.

✾ NINGAS-COGON
Being enthusiastic only during the start of new undertaking but ends dismally in accomplishing
nothing.

✾ LACK OF SPORTMANSHIP
Not accepting defeats in competitions.

✾ TSAMBA LANG ATTITUDE

Simply declaring that his/her accomplishments are results of luck and not from perseverance and
ability

✾ AMOR-PROPIO
It means self-love, ego-defensiveness, or personal pride.

✾ MARITES CULTURE
The term “Marites” was coined by content creator Justine Luzares, which was derived from the
phrase “Mare, ito ang latest” (“Sis, here’s the latest”). In a nutshell, “Marites” refers to a gossiper.
 ✾ FREEBIE HUNTING
There are some Filipinos who will take what they can get – even in the most inappropriate and
cringe-worthy fashion. Some tend to show up uninvited to weddings or birthday parties, expecting to
be able to partake in the celebration.

SUPERSTITIOUS BELIEFS
What is superstitions?
 It is a belief or a way of behaving that is based on fear of the unknown and faith in magic or luck. It
is a belief on certain events or things will bring good or bad luck.
 These are sets of knowledge and customs concerning about luck and hex. “WALA NAMING
MAWAWALA KUNG SUSUNOD KA”
Examples:
1. If you want to get rid of unwanted visitors, simply sprinkle salt around your home and they will soon
leave.
2. If there is a fishbone stuck in your throat, don’t tell anyone. Simply rotate your plate three times and
it will be gone.
3. When a person breaks an egg and sees two egg yolks, that person will become rich.
4. On Good Friday, do not take a bath or even use water.
5. Gamblers will always lose when they see the number seven.
6. The number of steps of staircases at home should not be divisible by three.
7. Siblings should not marry within the same year.
8. Serve pancit (noodles) at celebrations, especially birthdays.
9. Respect the elementals.
10. Be careful when showing fondness over babies.

PHILIPPINE MYTHOLOGY
Philippine mythology is the body of stories and epics originating from the 7000 islands that form part of the
Philippine archipelago. This mythology is inspired and influenced by the numerous folk religions and other
ethnic and religious influences in ancient times. Philippine mythology tries to explain the nature and
functioning of the world through various stories revolving around gods, mortals and other mythological
creatures. The majority of these myths were passed on through oral tradition, and preserved through the aid
of community spiritual leaders, shamans, priests and village elders. Philippine mythology has been
historically referred to as Anitism, meaning “ancestral religion”. Even today, many of the ethnic cultures
across the Philippine islands continue to practice and uphold these traditional beliefs while the practicing of
foreign religions like Christianity and Islam are also quite widespread. The preservation and proliferation of
Philippine Mythology was primarily through oral literature and folk stories.

MYTHICAL CREATURES:
1) KAPRE
Kapre is a tall, grimy, dark humanoid that resembles a gorilla and is known as a tree demon. They are also
known to have a strong body odor and to smoke in trees. They play tricks on people by making them go in
circles or completely lost in the woods. Legend has it that to escape their grasp, you must turn all your
clothing inside-out.
2) TIKBALANG
Tikbalang is a bipedal horse monster of Philippine mythology claimed to lurk in the Philippines' highlands
and jungles. It is often said to be the transition of an aborted fetus transferred from limbo to Earth.
 3) TIYANAK
The tiyanak myth was incorporated into Catholicism in the 16th century. In the Catholic interpretation, the
tiyanak were purportedly the souls of newborns who died before being baptized. In the modern Philippines,
this term has been expanded to include aborted babies who have returned from the dead to seek vengeance
on those who have taken their lives.

4) ASWANG
The aswang is an intrinsically evil umbrella term encompassing different shape-shifting evil monsters such
as vampires, ghouls, witches, viscera sucking, and werebeasts. Even in the 16th century, Spanish colonists
observed that the Aswang was the most dreaded of the fabled animals of the Philippines. Other regional
names for the aswang include "tik-tik," "wak-wak," and "soc-soc," which refers to the sound it makes when
pursuing prey.
5) DIWATA
A Diwata (from the Sanskrit term Devata), also known as Encantada, is a dryad who is friendly or neutral
and is called ritually for favorable crop growth, health, and prosperity; they may also incur sickness or
disaster if not treated properly.
6) NUNO
The nuno sa punso ("old man of the mound") is a dwarf-like monster who lives in an anthill or termite
mound. Its name directly translates to "Ancestor/Grandparent in the Anthill.
7) MANANAGGAL
The Manananggal (meaning "self-segmenter") is a Filipino Aswang that detaches her torso from her lower
half and then takes flight at night to consume children. It is characterized as an elderly, beautiful lady
capable of separating its upper body and flying into the night with gigantic bat-like wings to prey on
sleeping pregnant ladies in their houses.
8) TAMBAL
A monster capable of impersonating human victims, is the Filipino equivalent of the doppelganger. They
make their victims go missing for days and then assume their place at home, mixing with relatives and
acquaintances. According to legend, the tambal slaughter their victims before assuming their place.
9) MANGKUKULAM
People who practice sorcery are referred to as Mangkukulam which literally means "a practitioner of kulam
(curse)". They frequently do it for vengeance or to harm others. Sorcerers, or mangkukulam, can be found in
rural areas or provinces. A mangkukulam may employ a voodoo doll and a needle to perform spells on
persons they want to exact revenge on, but they mostly rely on natural magic and superstitions, much like an
arbularyo, or witch doctor.
10) AMALANHIG
Amalanhig are beings from Visayan mythology, especially among Hiligaynon speakers. Their names
meaning "stiff one". They are flightless aswang who resurrected after death in Philippine mythology. They
emerge from the dead after failing to transfer authority to a relative. They are Aswangs who failed to
transmit their monstrosity, leading them to emerge from their graves and bite the necks of people. Others
claim that they would hunt down any living person they came across and then tickle the victim until they
died, both of laughter and horror.
11) SIGBIN
In Philippine folklore, the Sigbin or Sigben is a monster who appears at night to suck the blood of victims
from their shadows. It resembles a hornless goat, but has very huge ears that can be clapped like hands and a
long, flexible tail that may be used as a whip. In other accounts, it walks backwards because its feet are
facing the opposite way.
12) KATAW
The Kataw is a kind of merfolk in Philippine mythology. Kataw was said to be the highest ranked merperson
or sea monster in Visayas. The Kataws are said to be the ruling monarchs of the realm Bantay Tubig, the
protectors of the water. These sea animals pose themselves as fisherman seeking assistance. When mortals
approach, the Kataws drown them in the deep depths.
13) BAL – BAL
Bal-Bal is an undead demon who snatches bodies from funerals and graves and feeds on them. It has a great
olfactory sensibility for dead human remains. It also possesses strong claws and fangs that may shred the
garments of the deceased. It has bad breath since it only consumes corpses. Once this monster has found and
devoured the corpse, it would leave the trunk of a banana tree in the coffin to create an illusion of the stolen
body in order to deceive others.
14) DALAKETNON
The malevolent engkantos are called the Dalaketnon. In Philippine mythology, the Dalaketnons are a race of
elf-like beings. They were thought to be lovely and beautiful animals in Visayas, resembling nobles and
monarchs of prehispanic Philippines. They lived on Dalakit trees (Balete, Dakit), thus the name Dalakitnon,
which literally means "beautiful creatures." Dalakit or Dakit is a tree.
15) BATIBAT
In Ilocano legend, the Batibat or Bangungot is a vindictive demon. These demons were responsible for the
deadly nighttime illness known as bangungot. It suffocates its prey by sitting on his chest.
 Chapter 3: History and evolutions of Arts and Literature in the Philippines
Prepared by: Precious Pia Ponce BSED 2- Social Studies
Date: February 21, 2024
Content : History and evolutions of Arts and Literature in the Philippines.
( Architecture, Music and Dance, Paintings, Theater and Literature )

Popular culture is a concern of the recent trends and popular activities. Philippines us a developing nation
with a history of colonization which leads to cultural influences particularly in the Spanish and the American
occupation.
Arts and literature in the Philippines including the traditional Filipino architecture, music and dance,
paintings, theater and literature have blended influences from Spanish and American colonizers.

1. Architecture
• Architecture in the Philippines today is the result of a natural growth enriched with the absorption of varied
influences. It developed from the pre-colonial influences of our neighboring Malay brothers, continuing on
to the Spanish colonial period, the American Commonwealth period, and the modern contemporary times.

A. During Early Period

• The indigenous tribes of the Philippines that were quite a diverse group and of nomadic nature had little art
of building to speak of. Their architectural art was revealed in their houses of nipa, cogon and bamboo,
suitable to the tropical conditions of the islands.
• During this period, Filipinos established their villages near bodies of water where mostly food were taken
from the sea, also from agricultural environment. In both environment houses were not built permanently &
therefore light & flexible materials were used. Ancient Negroid people immigrate to the Philippines over a
land bridge then still connecting the archipelago with the Asian mainland. They are food gatherers and
hunters, and the forefathers of today's Negritos. These people use bows and arrows and stone made
implements. They live in caves.
• Architectures during early period:
1. Cave dwellings - The earliest form of human habitation.
2. Lean-To - The earliest type of shelter which man built, consisted of a simple, single pitched roof
resting on an inclined series of rafters made up of tree branches w/ the end resting of the ground.
3. Tree Houses - Perched on forked branches of trees, up to 60 feet above the ground and prevent attack
by animals and human enemies

B. During Pre-spanish Period

• The pre-Hispanic dwellings in the Philippines can be identified with the nipa hut or the 'bahay kubo' (a
cube house), a four-walled structure that is prevalent in Southeast Asia.
• BAHAY KUBO, Nipa Hut/House. Bahay evolved from the word "balai" which means house . Kubo
derived from "cubo", a Spanish word for cube. The height of the walls is equal to its width and this gives a
boxy appearance or a cube-shaped house. In the 16th century, bahay kubo were used only for few years then
abandoned.
EXAMPLE: Tagbanuas of Palawan

C. During American Commonwealth Period

• Once the Spanish colonial era ended, the American colonial era came in with the establishment of civil
government houses as its most impactful influence on the Philippines.

• Architectures structures during American Commonwealth period:

1. Beaux Arts Style–Integrated Structures - The American influence on Philippine architecture is
divided into two, with the first kind involving the first generation of Filipino architects “who studied
engineering and architecture in the United States, which were sponsored by colonial masters.” This
first generated integrated the Beaux Arts style into structures, and combined concepts of utility and
modernism.
2. Art Deco Style Structures - The second generation, on the other hand, focused on the integration of
the Art Deco style in architecture by various architects. This kind of style centered around,
“exuberant exoticism, and exotic embellishments and ornamentation.” Examples of such buildings
from this generation include the Manila Metropolitan Theater, the ELPO Building, and the Old Jaro
Municipal Hall.
1. 3 Manila - It was during the American colonial era that early Manila began its development as a
“uniquely European city in the tropics.” The plan that developed Manila was spearheaded by the
architect Daniel Burnham. He collaborated with the architect William Parsons, whose contributions
to Philippine architecture include “the use of termite-resistive Philippine hardwood,” the “mass
fabrication of standard building types,” and “the Kahn system of hollow blocks and reinforced
concrete. The influence of these innovations is sure to be present in some form in your House and
Lot for Sale today.

Architecture in the Philippines continues towards the modern era mixing traditional motifs along with
international modern style. Click the link below to learn more.

2. Music
A. Indigenous Music (Pre-colonial)
• Also known as Ethnic Music, the traditional and typically anonymous music that is an expression of the
life of people in a community, often serves as a musical accompaniment for various traditions such as
ceremony and rituals such as:
Child Birth, Courtship - Death, Work and Harvest, Worship or Rituals, Welcoming Guests and etc.
• In the account of Pigafetta, the official historian of Magellan's expedition, when they arrive here in the
Philippines, women from Cebu were harmoniously playing: (some) Cymbals, Nose Flute, Bamboo Harp
•Northern and Southern Forms of Music:
1. Southern Style – Kulintang, Palendang and Kalutang
2. Northern Style – Gangsa, Paldong and Gilgit

B. Spanish Period (1565-1898)

 • Discover how Spanish-influenced dance music and art songs express their feelings towards each other and
the environment, their history, and their religious beliefs through voice. With the coming of Spaniards,
Filipino's music underwent a transformation with the influx of western influences during 15 to 18th
centuries. It effected a change in the people's musical thinking and produced a religious and other "societal
concerns kind music.
• The colorful Spanish-European Influenced Music:
–Music for festivities and recreation, Work (planting and harvesting), Courtship, Social commentary and
Patriotism
• Liturgical Music- music written for performance in a religious rite of worship, the term is most commonly
associated with the Christian tradition.( EX. Gregorian Chant Pasyon )
• Secular Music -is non-religious music. Secular means being separate from religion.

Examples:
1. Harana (Spanish jarana) - Serenade, Kundiman
2.Kumintang- originally a war song, this song in triple time can be of any topic: love, resentment, or a
social
3.Commentary -Cariñosa using of fan or handkerchief to show romantic gestures.
4. Rondalla – a traditional string orchestra.
C. American Period (1898-1946)
• The American regime lasted from 1898 to 1946 during which time Philippine music underwent another
process of transformation. Side by side with this classical music art tradition was a lighter type of music
which includes stylized of folk songs, theater music and instrumental music.
• American music influences in the Philippines:
1. Folk songs -one of the oldest and most prevalent forms of folklore. It unites a poetic text with a
melody. Morales performs traditional songs and children's songs, with a guitar for harmony
2. Ballads-a poem or song narrating a story in short stanzas.
3. Rock'n roll - a hard and loud kind of music.
4. Disco- a party kind of loud and RnB music.
5. Jazz -repulsive syncopated rhythms, polyphonic ensemble playing, varying degrees of improvisation,
and often deliberate distortions of pitch and timbre.
6. Rap-recurring beat pattern provides the background and counterpoint for rapid, slangy, and often
boastful rhyming patter glibly intoned by a vocalist or vocalists.

D. Japanese Period (1941-1945)

• The invasion of the Philippines, started on ten hours after the attack on Pearl Harbor. Lacking air cover, the
American Asiatic Fleet in the Philippines withdrew to Java on December 12, 1941, Douglas McArthur then
escaped the Corrigedor.
• During the Japanese invasion, the second world war American forms of entertainment such as music were
banned with the suppression of American values. Japanese music was heard daily in radio broadcast their
songs, their songs were also taught in public schools. However, students never took their songs to their
hearts. The Japanese branded American culture as decadent when concealing its own agenda of economic
and cultural expansionism.
• Forms of Music:
1. Orchestra-composed of mass number of musician.
2. Symphony- is an extended musical composition in Westem classical music, scored almost for orchestra
contains at least one movement or episode composed according to the sonata principle.
3. Musical March- a music that is written for marching and most frequently performed by a military band.
E. Contemporary Period of Music
• Refers to compositions that have adopted ideas and elements from late 90's to twentieth century art music
in the West, as well as the latest trends and musical styles in the entertainment industry. The Contemporary
Music represents about the Local and Global trends and issue in the society.
• Most artists and performers are millennials and from Generation x.
• In this period, most of our Artists and Performers became Globally Famous and wrote their Names with
good reputation and achievements in the Music Industry :
1. PARAISO by: Smokey Mountains
2. Bamboo
3. Ryan Cayabyab
4. HIMIG HANDOG

3. Dances
• Dance is an integral part of Filipino culture that dates to the period before Ferdinand Magellan stepped foot
in the Philippines. The traditional dances of the Filipinos are vibrant and colorful, capturing the history of
the archipelago.
A. During Early Period, the early Filipinos considered dancing as a religious activity. They performed
dances in thanksgiving for a fruitful harvest, a victorious battle and prosperous voyage or recovery from
sickness.
B. During the Spanish period, dancing played an important part in the social activities of the Filipinos.
Kumintang, a pantomimed song and dance was the oldest recorded activity among the Christianized
Filipinos. The Spaniards introduced different dances such as: Fandangos, Lanceros Rigodon, Carinosa and
Curacha.
.Nowadays, folk dancing is increasing in popularity. There are numerous fascinating Philippine dances
which have already been documented and performed not only in schools but also by various dance troupes
well organized by Mrs. Tolentino. The UP Folk Song and dances have performed and showed their prowess
in several towns and provinces nearby Manila.

4. Paintings
• The Philippines has a long history of art. Artistic painting was introduced to the Philippines in the 16th
century when the Spaniards arrived in the Philippines. During this time, the Spaniards used painting as
religious propaganda to spread Catholicism throughout the Philippines
• It is said that there is no specific tradition when it comes to painting in the Philippines which means that
there is no particular pattern being followed by the artist.
Some famous paintings in the Philippines include:
1. The Fishermen by Ang Kiukok( 1935-2005)
2. The Fruit Gatherer of Fernando Amorsolo(1892-1972)

A. Painting during Spanish period

• The Spanish friars introduced Western painting in the Philippines to artisans who learned to copy on two-
dimensional form from the religious icons that the friars brought from Spain,. For the first centuries of
Spanish colonization, painting was limited to religious icons. Portraits of saints and of the Holy Family
became a familiar sight in churches. Other subject matters include the passion of Christ, the Via Crucis, the
crucifixion, portrayal of heaven, purgatory and hell.
• Luna’s academic painting Spoliarium won gold medal. It showed the dead and dying Roman Gladiators
being dragged into the basement of the Coliseum. It is often interpreted as an allusion to Imperial Spain’s
oppression of the natives. Though winning the gold medal, Luna was not awarded the Medal of Excellence,
the top award for the competition, because he was a Filipino.
• Painters from the Visayas island of Bohol were noted for their skillful manipulation of the technique. Their
paintings of saints and religious scenes show figures in frontal and static positions. For the Boholano
painters, the more important persons would be depicted bigger than the rest of the figures. Christ normally
dwarfs the Roman soldiers in these paintings. Unfortunately, they did not sign their names on their works
and no record of their names exists.

5. Theater
• The Philippine Theater, just like the arts have evolved through time with the influences of the various
cultures the Philippines has been dawned upon.

A.Pre-colonial Time
• During the pre-historic times, theater in the Philippines was in the form of indigenous rituals, verbal jousts
or games, or songs and dances to praise gods. According to early chronicles, pre-historic dramas consisted of
three elements myth, mimesis, and spectacle. These mimetic performances mostly dramatized primitive
rituals and epic poetry about deities and mythical legends, where the spirit of the deities would seemingly
possess a catalonan (priest) or babaylan (priestess).

B. Spanish Regime
• When the Spaniards reached our shores, they used dramas such as zarzuelas as a pedagogical tool to
influence the pagan tribes and teach them about Christianity and religion. Another important form of theater
popularized during the Spanish colonization is the comedia, also known as moro-moro, linambay, or arakyo.
It's a play in verse that portrays the lives, loves, and wars of moors and Christians.

C. American Colonization
• When American colonial rule was established, the United States introduced the American way of life
through education, media, and language. Their influence on Philippine theatre is most apparent through the
bodabil (vaudeville) and the plays and dramas staged or translated into English.
• In 1898, the first bodabil was produced by the Manila Dramatic Guild for the sole purpose of entertaining
American soldiers and other Americans residing in Manila. It was also the first theatrical performance since
the revolution. The bodabil is not a straight-up play. The theatrical performance is, in fact, a mix of songs,
dances, comedy skits, and even magical performances. Local audiences bought-in and productions soon
found themselves becoming entertainment spectacles that can be transported from one town to the next. Not
long after, the bodabil was interjected into comedias and zarzuelas, as intermission numbers known as
jamborees.
• In the 1930s, the country was introduced to Broadway theatre or stage plays through the westernized
education that was provided in most private schools for privileged children. Shakespearean tragedies and
comedies, as well as western classics, were performed in the original English or English adaptation.

D. The Japanese Occupation

• By the 1940s, when the Japanese took over the Philippines from the Americans, movie actors and actresses
could no longer appear in films, as the Japanese confiscated all film equipment. However, the comedia,
zarzuela, and bodabil remained in the country as forms of entertainment and expression.
• Eventually, the bodabil evolved to become stage shows or variety shows with a short melodrama at the end
to accommodate the actors and actresses who moved their
craft to bodabil and theatre. Venues such as the Manila Grand Opera House and the Savoy Theatre became
homes of bodabil.

E. Philippine Theatre as We Know It Today

• After the Japanese occupation, the Philippine theatre has evolved to become an amalgamation of the
various influences such that of the zarzuela, comedia, bodabil, and western classics. Theatre was largely
performed in English during the time, as it became a large part of classroom education. Meanwhile,
zarzuelas such as "Ang Kiri," "Dalagang Bukid," and "Paglipis ng Dilim" became well-known beyond their
regions. During this time, playwrights such as Severino Montano, Wilfrido Ma. Guerrero, and Alberto S.
Florentino honed their crafts and contributed to the development of performing arts in the Philippines.

6. Literature
• Philippine Literature is a diverse and rich group of works that has evolved side-by-side with the country's
history. Literature had started with fables and legends made by the ancient Filipinos long before the arrival
of Spanish influence.

A . Pre-Colonial Period
• Consisted of early Filipino literature passed down orally. It was difficult to trace the original author of the
piece since oral literature did not focus on ownership or copyright, rather on the act of storytelling itself.
Literature in this period is based on tradition, reflecting daily life activities such as housework, farming,
fishing, hunting, and taking care of the children as well.
Oral pieces told stories which explained heroes and their adventures; they attempted to explain certain
natural phenomena, and, at the same time, served as entertainment purposes.
• EARLY FORMS OF PHILIPPINE LITERATURE
1. Bugtong-Riddles — Example: Lumuluha walang mata, may buhay wa hininga. Kandila
2. Salawikain-Proverbs —Example: Kapag may isinuksok, may madudukot.

B. Spanish Colonial Period (Mid-16th-late 19th century)

• Due to the long period of colonization of the Philippines by the Spaniards, they have exerted al strong
influence on our literature.
• The first Filipino alphabet called ALIBATA was replaced by the Roman alphabet.
• The Spanish language which became the literary language during this time lent many of its words to our
language. European legends and traditions brought here became assimilated in our songs, corridos, and
moro-moros.

• FIRST BOOKS
1. Doctrina Cristiana (THE CHRISTIAN DOCTRINE) - This was the first book printed in the
Philippines in 1593 in xylography.
2. Nuestra Señora del Rosario The second book printed in the Philippines was written by Fr. Blancas de
San Jose in 1602
3. The Pasion-This is the book about the life and sufferings of Jesus Christ. It is read only during Lent.

• RECREATIONAL PLAYS
1. The Cenaculo-This is a dramatic performance to commemorate the passion and death of Jesus
 2. Christ Panunuluyan- This is presented before 12:00 on Christmas Eve. This is a presentation of the
search of the Virgin Mary and St. Joseph for an inn wherein to deliver the baby Jesus.
3. The Salubong (or Panubong) - The Salubong is an Easter play that dramatizes the meeting of the
Risen Christ and his Mother.
4. Carillo (Shadow Play) - This is a form of dramatic entertainment performed on a moonless night
during a town fiesta or on dark nights after a harvest.
A. 5 The Zarzuela-Considered the father of the drama; it is a musical comedy or melodrama three acts
which dealt with man's passions and emotions like love, hate, revenge, cruelty, avarice or some
social or political problem.

• NOTABLE WORKS DURING THE SPANISH ERA

1. "Ang Mahal na Passion ni Jesu Christong Panginoon natin na tola"
2. (Holy Passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ in Verse)
3. . Florante at Laura

4. Ibong Adarna
5. Noli Me Tangere (1887) and El Filibusterismo (1891)

C.American Colonial Period (Late 19th Mid-20th century)

• After the treaty of Paris, new colonizers arrived in the Philippines. A new set of colonizers brought about
new changes in Philippine literature. The gradual decline of the Philippine literature written in Spanish. The
English language eventually became the medium of writing and instruction in schools..
• Philippine Literature are Characterized by:
Nationalism, Freedom of Speech, Experience and Desire for Freedom
• Philippine Literature during the American Era:
Short Story, Poetry in English, Free Verse in Poetry, Drama

D. Contemporary Period
• The flowering of Philippine literature in the various languages continue especially with the appearance of
new publications after the Martial Law years and the resurgence of committed literature. in the 1960s and
the 1970s.
• Of course the Filipino writer has become more conscious of his art with the proliferation of writers
workshops here and abroad and the bulk of literature available to him via the mass media including the
internet. The various literary awards such as the Don Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature, the
Philippines Free Press, Philippine Graphic, Home Life and Panorama literary awards

GEE 106: PHILIPPINE POPULAR CULTURE

Topic: History and Evolution of Philippine Pop Culture
• History of Philippine Lifestyle, Fashion, Food and Media
Prepared by: FRENCIS S. GUILLERMO BSED SS-2

HISTORY AND EVOLUTION OF PHILIPPINE LIFESTYLE, FASHION, FOOD AND MEDIA

 LIFESTYLE
A person's lifestyle or way of life is heavily influenced by the history, culture and the values
embedded in the place he or she is in. Filipinos, as people of one country are expected to share
commonalities in terms of dealing with existence.
With the harsh conditions of the country being prone to typhoons; also, with the number of colonization that
transpired, Filipinos were able to develop resiliency and a stronger faith, above all. With those said, these
factors truly affect the way Filipinos have led and are continuing if lead their lives until now.
Living a Filipino life means giving high regard to the family and by that, it includes extended family
members like grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and relatives.

Catholic families, they also include godparents assigned as the people responsible of a child should the
parents die or be disabled. The people above mentioned are the same people you will pee in major life
gatherings and events like baptism and confirmations for Catholics, circumcision for Muslims, marriages,
and other special, religious and national holidays.

Official holidays celebrated in the country include:

•Christmas (big celebration on Noche Buena or Christmas Eve)
•Easter, Eid al-Fitr (the end of the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan)
• New Year's Day
• Undas or Halloween Season (celebrated in cemeteries usually crowding the cemeteries in the 1st and 2nd
day of November)
•Labor Day and Independence Day

Other holidays are dependent to the localities like the festivals usually celebrated through dance
parades. Filipino families are also tight-knit. Children don' "t leave the household easily unlike in other
cultures where children are ought to leave by the age of 18. Usually, children leave their parents' house the
moment they decide to marry but there are also instances where children do not leave at all and stay with
their parents despite having a family of their own. Most of these who do not leave the house are also making
themselves responsible of taking care of their parents as they grow old.

Education as well is revered by Filipinos. Usually, the first wish among parents for their children is to have
them finish their studies. They even celebrate graduations with a feast of food, inviting family and friends to
come and join the celebration. Academic achievement other than work is something that one would take
pride over in the Philippines.

Filipinos are very fond of communicating, in fact, Filipinos are internationally being attributed to
hospitability. The spirit of pakikisama, and pakikibagay which means being able to blend well with others
are common among Filipino people; it is easy for Filipinos to connect even with strangers and foreigners as
most can understand and speak English.

Filipinos have the thing they call bayanihan which means helping one another or extending help to
those in dire need especially in times of disaster and calamity. Filipinos value respect to the elders and you
can often hear them say po or opo as honorifics to those who are older.
In terms of leisure, Filipinos enjoy singing in karaokes usually at home especially when there is a
special occasion. Other than that, Filipino families love going out to the beach or pools, usually including
members of the extended family. Filipinos also love mountaineering with family and friends and for the
youth, they love going out with their barkadas or their "group of friends'.

Filipinos love going to cinemas in the day and concerts at night. When it comes to sports, basketball,
boxing, football, billiards, and volleyball are the most famous. In fact, every time the renowned World
Boxing Filipino Champion Manny Pacquiao has a fight, the streets become peaceful and almost empty as
almost all of the Filipinos are watching and cheering for him in televisions.
Shopping is also a thing in the Philippines. There are heaps of malls but most of those who are thrifty
or are saving money opt to buy at ukay-ukay (store for second-handed clothes and apparels) and tiangges or
flea markets.

The Spanish colonization of the Philippines, which lasted for more than three centuries, had a
profound impact on the Filipino lifestyle. Spanish influence can still be seen in many aspects of Filipino
culture, including language, religion (Christianity), and architecture. The Spanish introduced new crops,
such as corn and tobacco, and brought with them a feudal system that shaped the social structure of the
country.
The American colonial period, which followed Spanish rule, brought further changes to Philippine
lifestyle. American influence came in various forms, including education, entertainment, and mass media.
This period saw the introduction of modern infrastructure, transportation, and communication systems. The
American influence also led to a significant shift in societal norms and values.
Nowadays, with the impact of digital technology, the Internet of Things and globalization, Filipino
lifestyle also changed enormously. Things and machines have become more advanced which made work
easier. Even the means of transportation and home appliances advanced.
In socializing, social media has become a major platform in which people can share and post things. Most of
the youth dedicate a lot of their time surfing the net for entertainment like scrolling on their social media
accounts, watching foreign dramas and YouTube videos.

 FASHION
Fashion speaks a lot about someone; it's become a way of expressing the self without having to say
something and clothing, being a universal culture would mean that wherever you go, there will always be
certain ways of dressing in places according to trend. Culture and other influences such as fact would not
exclude the Philippines of which fashion changed over time.
The way Filipinos dress through time is incontestably influenced by the colonization’s it has undergone,
reflecting in it the rich history of the country but before these extensive occupations, Filipinos dressed
according to social status. In Central Philippines, the Tagalog men wore baro, while women put on baro at
saya made of silk in corresponding colors. The textile for baro't saya showed social status.
Women in the upper class wore silk, while the lower class used white bark fibers. Colors of the clothes also
indicated social status and tattoos were worn signifying power and strength in warriors, beauty, power and
wealth for women.
In the Visayas, clothes were like the Malays. Baquero (ankle-long jacket without collar) or marlota (a
colorful robe) were their usual outfit. Putong/pudong (strips of cloth wrapped around the forehead) were also
worn. Only the braves wore a red pudong, while commoners wore pudong- pudong. In Mindnao, malong or
tubular skirt is a fashion basic.
With Spaniards came a different fashion style was born. Baro’t saya changed into its Hispanized
version and a floor-length skirt. Baro turned into Barong Tagalog, with collars and buttoned lace shirt. In the
19th century, the Hispanized baro saya changed again due to the rising economy and globalization.
Filipinos travelled and lived in Europe and the US, Western influences became more prominent. Women
started wearing loose dresses and knee-length skirt while men wore suit and coat. Floral dresses replaced
Traje de Mestiza in 1930s. While the elders still used it daily, the younger generation saw it only as a formal
dress for special events and occasions.
During the Second World War, the Japanese occupied factories, which resulted in shortage of
textiles. Tailoring shops, boutiques and dressmakers closed. Trade and the economy got affected, people
lived through rations and clothes became simpler. Men abandoned coat and "Americana." Women didn't
wear terno resulting to its death as stores only sold one-colored dark dresses.

With the fame of British pop culture, Philippine fashion changed in 1960s. Mod became an instant hit.
Hemlines got shorter, while the clothes became more loose. Mini skirt and mini dresses became popular for
women. With the invention of hairspray, hairstyle got bigger and bolder. In the late 1960s to 1970s, Filipinos
had the hippie culture.
Disco culture arose. Bell bottoms stayed a fashion basic paired with polos in bright colors. Women wore
short dresses. The sloppy vibe of the era led to the fame of casual look. Bakya, a footwear, became famous
and the denim-shirt ensemble. Wearing neo-colored clothes with miniskirts was a huge trend. Curls were in,
sporty look got popular.
The 1990s was all about loose fashion, an oversized shirts and pants with the rock music influence. Dark,
leather and overly sized clothes was the trend. Denim became famous including the long hair or chachupoy,
a straight hairstyle with middle parting at the center.
The 21st century was a combination of different styles from different eras, but is characterized by
the rise of spaghetti strap clothes. Women wore innerwear as outerwear. Men's fashion remained the same,
with cargo pants and oversized shirts still famous.

 FOOD
Meals in the Philippines always include rice. Small amounts of meats be it chicken or pork for non-
muslim communities, fish, goat, beef and a variety of vegetables usually are the viands. When it comes to
meat there are pork or chicken adobo, sinigang (sour soup), lechon, sisig (pig's head), crispy pata (pig's leg),
kare- kare (stew) and bulalo (beef shank and marrow bones stew).

For vegetarians, there are pinakbet (mixed vegetables) and laing (shredded/whole taro leaves). As for the
sweets, there are halo-halo (crushed ice with various ingerdients and milk), taho (fresh silken tofu, arnibal
and sago pearls with milk), halayang ube (boiled and mashed purple yam), and leche flan (crème caramel) or
those who love exotic foods, there's a duck's embryo also called as balut. In Filipino celebrations, lechon or
a whole roasted pig is something being expected to be in the table especially in big celebrations.
Fililipinos call it handaan or having a feast as their way of celebrating achievements and special occasions.
Other than lechon, you can expect lechon manok (roasted chicken), pancit (noodle dish), lumpia (rolls),
spaghetti, mango float, fruit salad and other sweets with the variety of viands.

When it comes to drinks in these occasions, there always are soft and hard drinks. More often than not, the
ones to drink the hard drinks are the male visitors or family members. Females in the Philippines are often
not expected to drink alcohol.

Filipinos also like street foods very much. Street foods include kwek-kwek (boiled egg dipped in orange
batter), fish balls, tempura (mixed sea food meat and vegetables), siomai (steamed Chinese dumplings),
sweet corn, turon (banana rolled in thin layer of pastry), banana que (fried banana coated with sugar), isaw
(chicken intestines) and barbecue which can be paired with buko juice (coconut juice with milk), lemonade
and gulaman (drink with jelly). Filipinos especially students enjoy eating these a lot outside while chit-
chatting with friends and others.

When it comes to snacks and sweets, Filipinos also have a lot to offer. There are foods refered to as kakanin
or food made out of glutinous rice widely known as rice cakes. Kakanin includes puto (steamed rice cake),
biko (coconut milk and malagkit rice), sapinsapin (layered glutinous rice), suman (rolled rice cake), kutsinta
(ground rice and sugar), bibingka (baked rice cake) and palitaw (ground sticky rice mixed with sugar
powder and milk). All of these are very popular around the country and people search for these every buwan
ng wika; a whole-month celebration for the richness of the Filipino language.
Filipino cuisine has evolved over time, incorporating flavors and techniques from various cultures and
regions.

Spanish Colonial Period:

The Spanish colonization of the Philippines introduced new ingredients and cooking techniques.
Spanish influence can be seen in dishes like adobo (meat stewed in vinegar and soy sauce), lechon (roast
pig), and paella (rice dish with meat and seafood). The use of ingredients like tomatoes, onions, garlic, and
olive oil became more prevalent.

American Period:
The American colonization brought new ingredients and influences to Philippine cuisine. American
dishes like hamburgers, hotdogs, and fried chicken became popular, and American fast-food chains made
their way into the country. However, Filipino cuisine retained its distinct flavors and cooking methods.

Japanese Occupation:
During World War II, the Japanese occupation introduced Japanese flavors and cooking techniques
to the Philippines. Dishes like sushi, tempura, and ramen became popular among Filipinos.
Today, Filipino cuisine is known for its bold flavors, vibrant colors, and diverse ingredients. It
combines influences from indigenous, Spanish, American, Japanese, and other Asian cuisines.

 MEDIA
Media is one of most important tools for information. It helps to reached out with the people for
different purposes; entertainment, news, lifestyle and others. It is one of the reasons why many Filipinos
were up-to-date on the trends not just in the Philippine set up but also around the world.
In the field of films, the first films shown in the Philippines were short features called cinematrografo
(Fernandez, 1981) Jose Rizal's life was the first feature film produced in the country but Jose Nepomuceno's
"Dalagang Bukid” was the first full-length feature film in 1919.
Musser produced “Ang Aswang”, in 1932 which became the first talking picture in the country. Dolphy,
Vilma Santos and Nora Aunor were the superstars which are always talked because of their exemplary
performances.
While on radio, the longest-running shows were "Ilaw ng Tahanan" and "Gulong ng Palad," recently
translated to television, both built on the fool proof formula of cascades of tears and flocks of martyred
women (Fernandez 1981).
The media landscape in the Philippines has evolved over time, influenced by various factors.

Spanish Colonial Period:

The Spanish colonization of the Philippines introduced print media, with the establishment of
newspapers, books, and other publications.

These media outlets were primarily in Spanish and catered to the Spanish-speaking elite. The introduction of
print media paved the way for the spread of ideas and the emergence of nationalist movements.
American Period:
With the American colonization, English-language media became more prominent in the Philippines.
Newspapers, magazines, and radio stations in English catered to a wider audience. The American influence
also brought advancements in technology, such as the introduction of telegraph and telephone systems.
Technological Advancements:
The advent of new technologies, such as television and the internet, revolutionized the Philippine
media landscape. The introduction of television in the 1950s brought visual storytelling and entertainment to
households across the country. The internet and digital media have further transformed the media landscape,
providing new platforms for news, information, and entertainment.

The Evolution of Philippine Popular Culture

Popular Culture according to National Artist for literature Bienvenido Lumbera in his book
Revaluation: Essays on Philippine Literature, Theatre and Popular Culture (1984), is highly different from
the folk culture and nationalist culture of the Filipinos. In a nutshell, folk culture is the way of living in a
place in a specific time and portrays the practices of a certain people, and on how they cope to survive with
nature. Nationalist culture is the culture created through colonial resistance with the collective of a people on
a given place and time. These two are different from popular culture, at least in the context of the
Philippines, which can be traced even in the period of Hispanization of the Philippines.

Spanish Rule
Popular culture in the Philippines was created and used by the Spaniards to the native Filipinos or Indios
via plays and literature to get the heart of the natives and win it. The colonial origins of popular culture
found in the Philippines can be traced by looking at salient developments in Philippine literature. The first
permanent Spanish settlement began replacing the native culture with a Christian and European
tradition.

The children of the native elite under the tutelage of missionaries became a core group of intelligentsia
called 'ladinos', as they became instrumental "in bringing into the vernacular, literary forms that were to be
vehicles for the "pacification" of the natives". Forms of popular theatre and literature such as "the pasyon,
sinakulo, and korido ensured the acceptance and spread of Christianity, and the komedya and awit did the
same for the monarchy." Popular culture as introduced by the Spanish was "popular" to the extent that it was
a "watering-down of Spanish-European culture for the purpose of winning the general populace over to the
'ideology' of the colonial regime." Popular culture at the time was created by colonial authorities, with the
aid of the local intelligentsia, to promote the interests of the Church and the State.
 However, once the native intelligentsia saw the effects of popular culture and knew how to work its way
as propaganda, they soon used the Spanish weapon against them. In the 19th century, through the
Propaganda movement, the native intelligentsia used the same forms of popular culture to "undermine the
power of the abusive friars and rally the populace to put an end to colonial rule" one example is the work of
Marcelo H. del Pilar when he soon used prayers such as the 'Aba, Ginoong Maria' and 'Ama Namin' in a sort
of parody to strike against the abusive Spanish Friars.

American Colonialism
The advent of American colonialism brought, the properly so-called, popular culture to the Philippines.
The liberal policy regarding the printing press, soon through radio, television and film, increased the
circulation of popular culture forms. Not only through these forms but also in new media then, such as films.
Hollywood films had a near-monopoly in the Philippine market especially in the absence of European
movies due to World War I.

Early on, the local intelligentsia has the same apprehensions over mass media as they called it
commercialization, or vulgarization of art. The local intelligentsia noticed that Popular literature as a
commodity intended for a mass market was seen to pose a threat to serious artistic work, because the writers
accommodated his art to the demands of the publishers and editors who were more interested in sales rather
than aesthetics. More so, popular culture is not created by the populace, rather, it is culture created either by
the ruling elite or by members of the intelligentsia in the employ of that elite, for the consumption of the
populace. It is 'packaged' entertainment or art intended for the profit of rulers, be they colonial
administrators or native bureaucrats and businessmen.

2. Zeitgeist | Post-War Philippines

The Zeitgeist is a word that comes straight from German — zeit means “time” and geist means spirit, and
the “spirit of the time” is what’s going on culturally, religiously, or intellectually during a certain period.
Basically, Zeitgeist is the dominant set of ideals and beliefs that motivate the actions of the members of a
society in a particular period of time.

The following are the Zeitgeist of Philippine Popular Culture

Here's a rundown of our culture throughout the decades:
2.1. The 1950s
During this decade, the Philippines can be best described as a nation trying to establish its own identity.
the postwar years became a pivoting point for the Pearl of the Orient, who by then had just recently attained
freedom from 450 years of colonial rule. A decade of many "firsts," it was a period when the Filipinos began
to manifest a sense of nationalistic pride. "Man of the Masses," President Ramon Magsaysay wore the
Barong Tagalog in his inauguration and in all official affairs -the first for a Filipino President to dress the
national garment.

The 50s was also labelled as the first golden age of the Philippine Cinema with the booming of the
Filipino film industry. Four big production studios (LVN Picture, Sampaguita Pictures, Premiere
Productions, and Lebran International) were all in their prime, on top of the industry releasing an average of
350 films a year. Then, there was matinee idol Rogelio de la Rosa on the pinnacle of his career, first to be a
Filipino film actor turned politician.

2.2. The 1960s

Following a decade of many "firsts" are more years of new initiatives, including efforts to empower
women. The decade witnessed the demolition of traditional Filipino gender culture with the emergence of
Filipinas and their renewed role in society. On June 18, 1960, the Bureau of Women and Minors was created
under the Department of Labor, with the purpose of protecting the welfare of working women and minors.

In same decade, Filipina actresses Vilma Santos and Nora Aunor were discovered, who eventually
became superstars of their generation and beyond. It was also during the 60s when the Filipiniana dress was
popularized by former first lady Imelda Marcos, which later became a notable fashion statement. Another
first for the country was on 1969, when Gloria Diaz won the first-ever Miss Universe crown for the
Philippines.

Mass Communications Research

Factors that influenced Mass Communication:

 the recognition of mass communication as a vital, current field of endeavour and inquiry
 the sending of scholars abroad and their return with questions about Philippine situation
 the establishment of the U.P. Institute of Mass Communication and of mass communication programs in
other schools
 the government interest in the relation of mass communication to development

2.3 1970s
This time marked significant milestones for the country that highly influenced and shaped the society
that we have today. It was opened by the visit of Pope Paul VI in 1970, making him the first-ever leader of
the Catholic Church to set foot here.

The declaration of Martial Law in 1972 of Former President Ferdinand Marco Sr. fueled political
awakening among Filipinos during that time. Meanwhile, Filipina beauties continued to shine brightly as
Aurora Pijuan bagged the Miss International title in 1970, followed by our second Miss Universe Margie
Moran in 1973.

2.4. The 1980s

It was an era of breakthroughs and novel ideas. Filipinos were highly creative at this point in time. Not
only was there an overwhelming need to express long-buried sentiments, there was also an equally vast
freedom to do so, especially after the restoration of democracy.

Noel Cabangon and the rest of his band Buklod emerged in the local music scene with socio-poitical-
cultural hits such as "Tatsulok" and "Kanlungan." Proudly local shows like Batibot, That's Entertainment,
Ipaglaban Mo! and Magandang Gabi Bayan were easily identifiable for Filipinos, too. Films such as Himala
starring Nora Aunor, set the bar higher for local cinema. It was also in this decade that the country's first
transit system, the Light Rail Transit (LRT) 1 was built. These development rooted in originality spurred the
Filipinos on to the next decade.

2.5. The 1990s

After witnessing the breakthroughs of the past decade, Filipino creativity continued to be the focal point
of the 1990s, especially as the Original Pinoy Music flourished. One of the most prominent acts of the
decade was Master Rapper Francis Magalona. His groundbreaking hit "Mga Kababayan Ko" in 1990 served
as the foundation of Filipino rap music, proving that patriotic anthems can come in different forms.

Several acts also followed suit, including legendary alternative rock band Eraserheads, who wrote "Para
sa Masa" in 1997, sung by various artists including Noel Cabangon, Barbie Almalbis, Ebe Dancel, and Yael
Yuzon to name a few. Despite the calamities that occurred, like the Luzon earthquake in 1990 and the
eruption of Mt. Pinatubo in 1991, the Filipino spirit remained resilient with music as its sanctuary.

2.6. The 2000s

The 2000s were a great time for the Philippine pop culture. Asian Novelas have become a staple of
every channel's daily programming.

Following the trend, local TV networks started remaking some of the popular shows because of its huge
following, such as:
 1. My Name is Kim Sam Soon
2. Lovers in Paris
3. Temptation of Wife
4. My Girl

Today's biggest celebrities also came from reality and talent competition programs in the 2000s like
Pinoy Big Brother, Starstruck, and Star Circle Quest.

This notable decade also started bizarre makeup and beauty trends. Crimped hair and chunky highlights
were everyone's favorite hairstyles. Thin eye-brows, glossy lipsticks, colorful eyeshadows, and dark
eyeliners was the decade's version of makeup on fleek. By the 2000s people turned to Korean music and
television. for style and beauty trends and long straight hair became popular.

Scholars examined some modes of fiction in different media: film, television, radio, and comics
1970's

Literary Concern
A cultural critic concern on: Cultural Values
What cultural values were transmitted?
Person/Effect/Purpose/ Manner
 How well was the transmission being done?
 To whom?
 With what effect? and to what purpose?

Major Areas of Philippine Popular Culture

*KOMIKS
Komiks - created for a popular by artists whose minds tuned to the public dream.
What makes the komiks popular?
Its content:
 The dreams
 the hopes
 the values
 the vision of life
 the escape from reality
 the problems and their solution
 the total world views
Content Examples: “Komiks "of the people"

*FILMS
Timeline of Film Industry
Cinematografo - first films shown in short features
1909 - First two locally made feature films - Life of Jose Rizal (produced by Yearly and Gross (Americans)
1919 - First full-length feature film - Dalagang Bukid (Jose Nepomuceno)
1924 - There were 214 movie houses in the Phils.
1932 - The first taking film - Ang Aswang (Musser)
1939 - Philippine movie industry is fifth in the world
Today - Proliferation of small independent producers

"Bakya" as a mark of class distinction rather than taste

- the film has vocabulary not known to the general audience
- defects of the film because it is derived from a folk drama
"Bakya" Scholars who are concerned with film history:
Nicanor Tiongson "From Stage to Screen" - examines folk drama as a source for the Filipino film
"Four Values in Filipino Drama and Film" - studies colonial values expressed in both media
Bienvenido Lumbera - heroes and heroines in Philippine film are derived from Philippine Literature
Ex: Kristo, Hudas, Laura, Aladin, Ibarra, Maria Clara, Sisa

Film History Scholars

1922 - a three 50-watt stations organized by Henry Hermann were given temporary permit to operate in
Manila and Pasay
Uses:
 for demonstration
 provided music
 to advertise merchandise

*RADIO
Timeline of Radio Operation in the Philippines

1930's - radio gained as much glamor as the movies for news (popular radio programs like "Sunrise Club"
and "Listerine Amateur Hour")
1940's - closure of all radio stations during the Japanese occupation
1945 (end of occupation) - became the real birth of Philippine radio
1950 - started on-the-spot news coverage by Bob Stewart (DZBB)
1950 - transistor revolution (Pres. Garcia donated radio monitors to the barrios "to combat subversive
elements in the rural areas")
1961 - the largest broadcasting was formed, the Bolinao Electronics Corporation then named Alto
Broadcasting Network, and finally became Kanlaon.
Broadcasting System
1969 - 62% of the total population (6, 347,000) households had radio sets

Pop Culture thru Radio

Popular Culture conveyed by Radio:
1. Popular Music
2. Soap Opera "Ilaw ng Tahanan" and "Gulong ng Palad" - longest running shows

*MAGAZINES
Popular Magazines
1905 - The Philippine Magazine (not popular because it is written in English)
1923 - Liwayway (became popular)
1941 - Liwayway had a circulation of 89,000 (Bisaya, Bannawag, Bicolnon)
1972 - Philippine Free Press (popular for it was printed on cheap newsprint and majority English speaking
public read it.

*MUSIC
Artists and their Music
Popular Music
Kundimans, Zarsuelas, Love Songs, Street Songs, and Children's Songs - some were recorded but not
used on stage or in public gatherings
Rolando Tinio - translated an album of American songs into Pilipino for Celeste Legaspi (and the trend was
on)
Hot Dog - "Pers Lab" Taglish and in melodious beat Pinoy Pop had arrived with song compositions and
competitions (organized by Metro Manila Pop Song Festival).
Freddie Aguilar - composed "Anak" said to have a folk beat and went international
Joey "Pepe" Smith (Juan Dela Cruz band) - started Pinoy rock which sound is Western rock but the
lyrics were in Pilipino ("Our Own Music").
*Radio stations were required to play at least 3 Pilipino songs every hour.
*There are music critics who devoted serious study to popular Filipino Music and disseminate their study
through lectures and articles (Felipe de Leon, Jr., Anna Leah de Leon).

CATEGORIES OF CULTURE IN THE PHILIPPINE SOCIETY

The different categories of culture in the Philippine society are the following:

1.Based on Nationality
 Filipino Culture

2. Based on Ethno linguistic Group

● Culture of the Tagalog, Ilonggo, Ilokano, Kapampangan, Waray, Bisaya, Manobo,
Maranao etc.

3. Based on Historical Epoch of Philippine Culture

● Culture before the coming of the Spaniards
● Spanish period culture
●American period Culture
● War period: Japanese Occupation
● New Republic Culture
● Pre-Martial law period culture
 Martial law period culture
● Post martial law period culture

4. Based on Economic Means

● Agricultural culture
● Fishing culture
● Business/commercial culture

5. Based on Geographical Location

● Lowland culture
● Upland culture
● Rural culture
● Urban culture

6. Based on Religion
 Roman Catholic Culture
● Protestant Culture
 Muslim Culture
●Iglesia ni Cristo Culture
 Jehovah’s witnesses culture
 Other religious sectors/culture
7. Based on Technology
● Advanced/modern culture
● Primitive/traditional culture

8. Based on Age
● Teenage culture
● Culture of the retired and the aged

9. Based on Economic status

● Elitist culture
● Mass culture

10. Based on Response to Colonialism

● Mainstream culture
● Indigenous culture

OTHER SYMBOLIC USES OF CULTURE

 Culture of poverty. It refers to the learned ways of life of the poor, a vicious cycle of deprivation and
want transmitted from one generation to another.
 Culture of opulence. It refers to the ways and life of the rich and the famous in their world of glitz and
glamour.
 Culture of corruption. It refers to the established patterns of illegally amassing wealth and obtaining
power or concessions in the government or private office.
 Culture of silence or culture of sabotage. It refers to the individual or group attitude to keep silent as
resigned response to authority.
 Pop culture. It refers to the popular ways, practices and interests of contemporary society. Example: pop
music or dance craze.
 Culture of apathy. It refers to the prevalent inaction, indifference, lack of emotion and interest of the
people in regard to the issues and concerns which need attention and resolution.
 Culture of conspicuous consumption. It refers to the ways and practices of the super-rich in buying
goods and obtaining services in excess of what they can actually consume and use.
 Culture of exploitation and dehumanization. It refers to the socially entrenched patterns of abusive and
exploitative practices by the moneyed and power-wielding members of the society against the culturally
deprived and materially disadvantaged group of the society.

SOCIOLOGICAL MEANING OF ETHNIC GROUPS AND RACISM

Race refers to a population that through generations of inbreeding has developed more or less distinctive
physical characteristics that are transmitted genetically. It refers to group of people who perceive themselves
and are perceived by others as possessing certain distinctive and hereditary physical traits. Sociologically,
race refers to a group of people whom others believe are genetically distinct and whom they treat
accordingly.
Race is commonly used to refer to physical differences between people brought about by physical
characteristics of genetic origin. This commonness of genetic heritage may be manifested in the shape of the
head and face, the shape and color of the eyes, the shape of the nose, lips and ears, the texture and color of
the hair, the skin color, height, blood type, and other physical characteristics.

Ethnic group represents a number of persons who have a common cultural background as evidenced by a
feeling of loyalty to a given geographical territory or leader, a feeling of identification with and unity among
historical and other group experiences, or a high degree of similarity in social norms, ideas, and material
objects.
An ethnic group refers to a group of people sharing an identity which arises from a collective sense of a
distinctive history. Ethnic group possess their own culture, customs, norms, belief, and traditions. There is
usually a common language, and boundary maintenance is observed between members and non-members, as
well as by birth; ethnic group membership may be acquired through marriage in other socially sanctioned
rites.

SOCIOLOGICAL MEANING OF ETHNICITY AND RACISM

In the Philippines, the sociological meaning of ethnic groups and racism is shaped by the country's diverse
cultural landscape and historical experiences.

1. Ethnic Diversity: The Philippines is home to a rich tapestry of ethnic groups, each with its own distinct
cultural practices, languages, and traditions. The sociological study of ethnic groups in the Philippines
involves examining the coexistence and interactions among these diverse communities.
2. Colonial Legacy: The country's colonial history, including Spanish and American colonization, has
influenced the socio-economic and political landscape. Sociological analysis considers how historical events
have shaped power dynamics and relations between different ethnic groups.
3. Cultural Pluralism: The Philippines embraces cultural pluralism, acknowledging and celebrating the
diversity of its ethnic groups. However, there are instances where certain groups may face marginalization or
discrimination based on cultural differences.
4. Indigenous Peoples: Indigenous communities in the Philippines often experience unique sociological
dynamics. Their struggles for recognition, land rights, and cultural preservation highlight the intersection of
ethnicity, identity, and social justice.
5. Regional Disparities: Sociological studies explore regional disparities and how they may be influenced
by ethnic factors. Economic opportunities, access to resources, and development initiatives can vary across
different regions, impacting ethnic communities differently.
6. Language and Identity: Language is a significant sociological aspect in the Philippines, with various
languages spoken across the archipelago. The use of language can influence identity formation and social
interactions, reflecting the multicultural nature of the country.
7. Religious Diversity: Religious affiliations, often linked to ethnicity, play a role in shaping social
structures. The Philippines is predominantly Christian, but there are also Muslim and indigenous
communities, each contributing to the complex mosaic of religious diversity.
8. Migration and Urbanization: Internal migration and urbanization contribute to the mixing of ethnic
groups in urban centers. Sociological analyses examine how these demographic shifts impact social
cohesion, cultural practices, and intergroup relations.
9. Colorism and Discrimination: Within the context of racism, colorism is a sociological concern in the
Philippines. Discrimination based on skin color or racial features can affect social opportunities and
perceptions within the society.
10. Social Movements and Activism: Sociological perspectives consider the role of ethnic-based social
movements and activism in addressing issues of discrimination and inequality. Efforts to promote cultural
understanding, inclusivity, and social justice are integral to the sociological landscape.

PATTERN OF ETHNIC RELATIONS

The pattern of ethnic relations refers to the different ways in which racial and ethnic groups interact with
each other. These interactions can be characterized by disparities in power and are influenced by various
social processes such as migration (both voluntary and involuntary), conquest, and expansion of territory.
The sense of belonging to a community based on a common history, language, religion, and other cultural
characteristics is a central concept in understanding these relations.
Here are some specific patterns of ethnic relations:
 Extermination/Genocide
 Expulsion/ Population Transfer

 Internal Colonialism
 Segregation
 Assimilation
 Separatism
 Amalgamation
 Pluralism/ Multiculturalism
 Racism

GENOCIDE
Genocide, the deliberate annihilation of a targeted (usually subordinate) group, is the most toxic intergroup
relationship. Historically, we can see that genocide has included both the intent to exterminate a group and
the function of exterminating of a group, intentional or not.
POPULATION TRANSFER OR EXPULSION
Expulsion refers to a subordinate group being forced, by a dominant group, to leave a certain area or
country. As seen in the examples of the Trail of Tears and the Holocaust, expulsion can be a factor in
genocide. However, it can also stand on its own as a destructive group interaction. Expulsion has often
occurred historically with an ethnic or racial basis.
INTERNAL COLONIALISM
Internal colonialism refers to manner in which a superordinate (or majority) group exploits a subordinate (or
minority) group for its economic advantage. Typically the superordinate group controls and manipulates
important social institutions to suppress subordinate groups and deny them full access to societal benefits.
SEGREGATION
Segregation is the act or process of separating or isolating a race, class, or ethnic group either by enforced or
voluntary means. It is a policy of keeping one group of people apart from another and treating them
differently, often due to differences in race, sex, or religion. This practice can also extend to the act of
keeping one person or thing separate from another. In a broader context, segregation has been used
historically to maintain dominance or discriminate against certain groups.
ASSIMILATION
Assimilation is the process whereby individuals or groups of differing ethnic heritage are absorbed into the
dominant culture of a society. It involves becoming similar to others by taking in and using their customs
and culture. This can include the adoption of a dominant culture's language, values, behavioral norms, and
lifestyle.
SEPARATISM
Separatism, or withdrawal, and is oftentimes a result of discrimination. In this case, it is the subordinate (or
minority) group that attempts to separate itself from the dominant group and create a "self-sustaining
society" within the broader society. The goal is to create a separate ethnic community with its own social
norms, cultural practices, and economy insulated from the larger dominant society.
AMALGAMATION
Amalgamation in a societal context refers to the blending of a minority and a majority culture to create an
entirely new one. This process, also known as the melting pot theory, is a key part of cultural evolution and
is often seen in multicultural societies. Cultural amalgamation involves the mixing of two cultures to create
a new culture and is often described as a more balanced type of cultural interaction than the process of
cultural assimilation. It allows for the preservation of unique cultural aspects within the new, combined
culture.

PLURALISM
Pluralism in a society refers to a state of diversity and mutual respect among different groups, where people
of different social classes, religions, races, and backgrounds coexist harmoniously. It is a political
philosophy that holds the belief that diversity in society is a source of strength and should be celebrated.
In a pluralistic society, each group maintains its unique traditions and interests while contributing to the
common good. Pluralism assumes that diversity is beneficial to society and that power should be dispersed
among a variety of economic and ideological groups, rather than held by a single elite or group of elites.
Pluralism is a positive response to diversity and an ethic of respect for diversity. It recognizes that while
diversity in society is a universal fact, how societies respond to diversity is a choice. The practice of
pluralism leads to negotiation of solutions that contribute to the common good and encourages inclusivity,
tolerance, and mutual understanding.
RACISM
Racism refers to the belief that some human races are inherently inferior.
a. Prejudice is an emotional prejudgment or attitude towards a person or group of people. It refers to a
categorical like or dislike of a group of people based on real or imagined social characteristics, usually
associated with their race, religion, ethnic group, sexual orientation, or perhaps occupation.
Theories of prejudice
Economic Theory - assumes that racial prejudice is a social attitude transmitted by the dominant ethnic
majority class for the purpose of stigmatizing some groups as inferior so that exploitation of the group
resources will be justified.
Symbolic theory - asserts that prejudice arises because of racial or ethnic group is a symbol of what people
hate, fear, or envy.
Scapegoat theory - maintains that human beings are reluctant to accept their mistakes for their troubles and
failures so they look for an ethnic- minority to shoulder the blame.
Social norm theory - asserts that ethnocentrism is a natural development of group living. Hatred and
suspicion for the out-group are the standard and normal way of doing things, particularly in dealing with
people.
b. Discrimination refers to the act of disqualifying or mistreating people on the basis of their group
membership or on ascriptive groups rationally irrelevant to the situation. Whereas prejudice is a state of
mind, discrimination is actual behavior. Prejudice and discrimination work hand in hand to create and
sustain and ethnical stratification.
c. Stereotypes are often simplified and unsupported generalizations about others and are used
indiscriminately for all cases. A few examples are Ilokano, “Kuripot” (stingy). Bicolanos, “Sili” (pepper or
spicy people).

Ethnic Groups in the Philippines

A. According to distinctive physical traits:

The ethnic groups in the Philippines can be categorized into different groups based on their physical
features.

1. The Negritos: Regarded as the aborigines of the Philippines, they are characterized by their
dark skin and curly hair.
2. Indonesian-Malayan stock: Predominant among the Filipinos, they have various physical
features reflecting the intermixing of Austronesian and Malayo-Polynesian peoples.

The Indonesian-Malayan stock is the predominant ethnic group among Filipinos, generally
characterized by their brown skin and straight or wavy hair.
3. Chinese: Making up the largest national group, they have contributed significantly to
Philippine history and culture.
4. Americans, Spaniards, and other Europeans: As colonizers, they have also left their mark
on the Philippines and have influenced the genetic makeup of some Filipinos.

B. According to cultural standpoints:

The ethnic groups in the Philippines can be classified into three categories:
1. Cultural minorities or Indigenous cultural communities: These groups uphold traditional
practices, beliefs, and customs that are distinct from the mainstream culture.
2. Muslims: Concentrated in the southern Philippines, particularly in Mindanao and the Sulu
Archipelago.
3. Christian groups: Representing various Christian denominations, including Roman
Catholicism and Protestantism.
C. According to linguistic groupings:
There are about 87 ethno-linguistic groups in the Philippines. This includes languages and dialects such
as Tagalog, Ilokano, Waray, Hiligaynon, Kapampangan, and Ilonggo, among others. Each group has its
own language, culture, and traditions.
D. According to religion:
The ethnic groups in the Philippines can be categorized based on their religious beliefs.
1. Roman Catholic
2. Muslims
3. Aglipayans
4. Protestants
5. Inglesia ni Kristo
6. Buddhist
7. Jehovah’s Witnesses
8. Other religious sect

E. The Muslim population in the southern Philippines is diverse and is made up of nine ethno-linguistic
groups, namely the Tausug, Maranao, Maguindanao, Samal, Yakan, Sama, Badjao, Molbog, and
 Jama Mapun. Each of these ethno-linguistic communities has its own unique customs, traditions,
and way of life, which have been shaped by a rich history and the influences of various cultural and
religious forces.
1. Tausug- are renowned for their vibrant culture, intricate art forms, music and proud martial
traditions.
2. Maranao people are known for their beautifully crafted torogan houses, “okir” moif and the
majestic Lanao Lake.
3. Maguindanao community, on the other hand, has a strong tradition of artistic expression,
particularly in weaving and intricate brassware.
4. Samal – The Samal people are an ethnic group in the Philippines, particularly in the Davao
Region. They are known for their seafaring skills and are often found in coastal areas. The
Samal people have a rich culture and are known for their traditional music and dances.

5. Yakan – The Yakan people are an indigenous Muslim tribe in the Philippines, particularly in
the Basilan province. They are known for their vibrant and colorful traditional weaves, which
are often used to make clothing and accessories. The Yakan people have a unique cultural
heritage and are known for their traditional crafts.

6. Sanngil – The Sanngil or Sama Sanngil are a sub-group of the Sama-Bajau people, who
areknown for their seafaring lifestyle. They are found in the Sulu Archipelago and are known
for their traditional boat-making skills and their reliance on the sea for their livelihood.
7. Badjao – The Badjao people, also known as the Bajau, are another ethnic group in the
Philippines known for their seafaring skills. They are traditionally a nomadic, sea-dwelling
people and are found in coastal areas in the southern Philippines. They have a distinct culture
and are known for their traditional boat designs and fishing techniques.
8. Molbog – The Molbog people are an ethnic group in the Philippines, particularly in the
Palawan province. They have a unique culture and are known for their traditional agricultural
practices and crafts. The Molbog people are also known for their colorful festivals and rituals.
9. Jama Mapun – The Jama Mapun people are an ethnic group in the Philippines, particularly
in the Tawi-Tawi province. They have a distinct culture and language, and are known for their
traditional boat-building skills and fishing techniques. The Jama Mapun people have a rich
oral tradition and are known for their traditional music and dances.
Despite being separate ethno-linguistic groups, these communities share a common Islamic faith, which
plays a significant role in shaping their way of life and cultural practices. The presence of these diverse
Muslim groups in the Southern Philippines adds to the richness of the region's cultural tapestry, making it a
unique and vibrant part of the country.

Measures and Efforts to Eliminate or Reduce Prejudice and Discrimination

Special measures are needed to eliminate or reduce prejudice and discrimination of the minority
groups. These include:

1. Contact and Acquaintance. It has been pointed out that people develop prejudice because they are
ignorant of an unfamiliar with the ways of living of ethnic groups. It is suggested that the majority
group should be given the information about and proper acquaintance with the minority in order for
the former to develop sympathy, tolerance and friendly feelings with these people.
2. Conduct sociological inquiry into the roots of the prejudice against ethnic groups, expose the fallacy
of these unsupported beliefs and stereotypes, and replace them with scientific truths about the
prejudiced groups.
3. State-funded public educational institutions from the elementary to the tertiary level. This will
eliminate prejudice against graduates of public schools systems in the present public and private
schools set-up. This will also eliminate the commercialization of education in private schools, which
make it difficult for children belonging to poor families to avail of quality education.
4. Affirmative Action Programs. This is a process in which special consideration and preferential
treatment are given to members of minority groups to offset the effects of past discrimination. It
means the setting of priorities in the hiring of minorities and establishing timetables for reaching
minority employment “target” goals. It is aimed at eliminating discrimination based on race, religion,
ethnic origin, or sex.
5. Increase the number of low and moderate-income housing units for the poor.
6. Removal of structural barriers to decent jobs created by changes in our system of production.