MAGLALATIK DANCE

Maglalatik is a traditional Filipino folk dance that originates from the province of Laguna. It is
a war that portrays a battle of between Moros (Muslims) and Christians over the prized coconut
meat or “latik”. This dance is performed by male dancers wearing coconut shell strapped on
their shoulders, chest, hips, and thighs. The purpose of this dance is to celebrate the bravery,
resilience, and unity of Filipino communities, while also paying homage to the country’s rich
history.
One of the striking features of the Maglalatik dance is the use of coconut shells together as
musical instruments by the dancers. The dancers rhythmically strike the shells together,
creating a loud distinct sound. This adds an element of excitement and intensity to the
performance, as the beat of the coconut shells mimic the sound of war drums. The use of
coconut shells as instruments ingenious and showcases the resourcefulness of the Filipino
people in utilizing their surroundings to create music.
In addition, the strength of Maglalatik dance lies in its ability to foster communal unity and
collaboration. Typically performed by a large group, the dance encourages a shared sense of
community and togetherness. The synchronized movements and precise coordination among
the participants embody the Filipino spirit of cooperation, unity, and shared cultural identity.
Another aspect of the Maglalatik dance is intricate choreography and synchronization of the
dancers. The movements are precise and synchronized, emphasizing unity and coordination.
The dancers skillfully execute complex steps, jumps, and arms movements of warriors engaged
in battle. The choreography successfully conveys the intensity and energy of the fight
captivating the audience and immersing them in the story being told. The synchronized steps
and impressive athleticism of the performers add an element of excitement and entertainment
to the overall presentation.
Furthermore, the costumes worn by the performers in the maglalatik dance are visually
stunning and culturally significant. The male dancers typically wear traditional Barong Tagalog
(Filipino formal attire) paired with colorful trousers and vibrant accessories. The combination of
modern and traditional elements in the costumes reflects the blend of cultures and influences
in the Philippines. The fusion of old and new adds new depth to the performance, showcasing
the country’s rich and diverse history.
However, one weakness of Maglalatik is the potential lack of choreographic variation. We
believe that the dance's repertoire of movements can become repetitive and predictable over
time. To keep the performance appealing and engaging, choreographers could explore new
choreographic patterns and introduce diverse formations. This would not only elevate the
overall appeal of Maglalatik dance but also prevent audiences from losing interest due to the
repetitive nature of the dance.
 Additionally, there is an aspect of cultural sensitivity that needs careful consideration in
Maglalatik. The original portrayal of the mock battle between Christians and Moros may be
viewed as culturally insensitive or perpetuating stereotypes. To address this concern,
choreographers could evolve the narrative and focus more on the dance's historical
significance, aiming to provide a deeper understanding of the struggles faced by the Filipino
people during the Spanish colonial era. This way, the dance can maintain its historical relevance
while avoiding perpetuation of negative stereotypes.
To sum up, the Maglalatik dance is captivating and culturally significant Filipino folk dance.
It showcases the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the Filipino people through the use of
coconut shells as musical instruments. The intricate choreography and visually stunning
costumes add depth and richness to the performance. While its energy and symbolism are
notable strengths, there is room for improvement in terms of choreographic variation and
cultural sensitivity. By addressing these aspects, Maglalatik dance can continue to evolve and
captivate audiences while maintaining its historical significance for generations to come.
Maglalatik is a remarkable dance that celebrates the Filipino culture and heritage.
 JONATHAN ROSARIO & SCAYTHE REIGN BARRUGA
11-STEM

Reference;
https://youtu.be/V-MJZEJ9T5U?si=n9b6YfredTvrDwHg