5 Fascinating Customs in Philippine Culture
The Philippine culture is an amalgamation of influences from the Chinese, Spanish, Indian, and Malay cultures. This cultural mix manifests itself in unique traditions and customs, making the Philippine culture one of the most distinct in Asia. In this article, we explore five fascinating customs that are deeply ingrained in Philippine culture.
1. Bayanihan
Bayanihan is a concept that refers to the community spirit of helping one another. This custom made it into the Guinness Book of World Records as the biggest number of people to carry a house. In rural areas of the Philippines, it’s typical for neighbors to come together and help one another with home renovations or moving houses. Bayanihan also refers to the selfless effort of Filipinos to help those in need, especially during times of natural disasters and calamities. It’s a testament to the Filipino people’s resiliency and kindness.
2. Kissing of Hands
In the Philippine culture, it’s customary for younger people to show respect to their elders by kissing their hands. This custom is a remnant of the Spanish colonial period, which introduced the tradition. It’s also a way to show gratitude and reverence to those who have contributed to society’s betterment. Even if kissing of hands is declining in urban areas, it’s still practiced in more conservative, rural areas of the Philippines.
3. Pahiyas Festival
The Pahiyas Festival is an annual event that happens in Lucban, Quezon province, to honor San Isidro Labrador, the patron saint of farmers. The festival is famous for its colorful displays of colorful rice cakes called ‘kiping’ hanging from houses’ balconies. These colorful decorations are made from rice flour and dyed with food coloring. The decorations’ vibrant colors, which represent abundance and wealth, are meant to attract blessings from San Isidro Labrador.
4. Filipino Hospitality
Filipino hospitality is one of the most enduring customs in Philippine culture. Filipinos are known for their hospitality, generosity, and warmth towards their guests. It’s common for Filipinos to welcome visitors with open arms, feed them with sumptuous food, and go out of their way to make them feel at home. This custom is deeply ingrained in the Filipino culture, and it’s often regarded as second nature to Filipinos.
5. Balikbayan Box
A Balikbayan box is a custom that refers to the practice of sending a large box filled with gifts and necessities to loved ones back home. This custom is typically practiced by Filipinos living and working overseas, and it’s regarded as a symbol of love and care for those left behind. These boxes often contain clothes, food, appliances, and other miscellaneous items that are hard to find or expensive in the Philippines. The Balikbayan box custom is a manifestation of the strong family ties that Filipinos cherish.
Conclusion
The customs in Philippine culture are unique and fascinating. They reflect the country’s rich history and diverse cultural influences. The Philippine culture is a beautiful mix of East and West, and these customs exemplify Filipinos’ warmth, resiliency, and kindness. Understanding these customs is essential to appreciating the Philippine culture and the people behind it.
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