PINAS! Landscape, Culture & Traditions.
The Landscape of the Philippines. The landscape is composed mostly of mountains and coastal lowlands, with 36,289 kilometers of coastline. It also includes volcanoes, river systems, rainforests, numerous waterfalls, and ocean trenches..
Banaue Rice Terraces. The terraces were built by the indigenous people using primitive tools and manual labor. They were created to cultivate rice and other crops on the steep slopes of the mountains. The terraces are a testament to the engineering skills and agricultural knowledge of the Ifugao people. Today, the Banaue Rice Terraces are a popular tourist destination and a symbol of Philippine cultural heritage..
The islands are characterized by wave-cut cliffs, cave-like outcrops, and secluded white sand beaches. The strong winds and fast currents in the area have shaped the distinct morphology of the islands. Batanes is also an important flyaway for migratory bird species and is home to pink and red corals, which are rare in the Philippines..
Chocolate Hills. The Chocolate Hills are a geological formation located in Bohol, Philippines. They are a group of more than 1,000 perfectly cone-shaped hills spread over an area of 50 square kilometers. During the dry season, the grass covering the hills turns brown, giving them a chocolate-like appearance, hence the name. The exact formation process of the hills is still a subject of scientific debate. The Chocolate Hills are considered one of the natural wonders of the Philippines and are a popular tourist attraction..
Apo Reef. Apo Reef is a coral reef system in the Philippines situated in the western waters of Occidental Mindoro province in the Mindoro Strait. Encompassing 34 square kilometres, it is considered the world's second-largest contiguous coral reef system, and is the largest in the country.
The Mayon Volcano is situated in the southern part of the main island of Luzon, 500 kilometres south of Manila. Towering at a height of 2,462 meters above sea level, it is known for its perfectly conical shape whose natural beauty has inspired a number of legends and art..
Cultures. The culture of the Philippines is a unique blend of diversity and homogeneity. It is influenced by various factors such as Spanish colonization, American influence, and indigenous traditions..
Indigenous Cultures. The Philippines is home to numerous indigenous groups, often referred to as "Lumad" or "Katutubo." These groups have distinct languages, customs, and traditions. Examples include the Igorot in the Cordillera region, the T'boli in Mindanao, and the Mangyan in Mindoro..
Foreign Influences:. American Influence. The majority of Filipinos have Malay ancestry, and their cultural heritage is reflected in language, customs, and traditions. This includes aspects such as the practice of "pagmamano" (respectful gesture of pressing an elder's hand to the forehead) and the belief in "anitos" (ancestral spirits)..
American Influence. The Philippines was under American rule from 1898 to 1946, which introduced aspects of American culture, including the English language, education system, and popular culture influences..
Traditions. The Philippines boasts a rich tapestry of traditions, influenced by its diverse ethnicities, colonial history, and indigenous beliefs. Here's a glimpse into some of the most cherished Filipino traditions:.
Respect for Elders. Filipinos greet their elders by kissing their hand while saying “Mano po!” and constantly using “po” and “opo” in conversations. These are the importance values such as respect, hospitality, kindness, and strong social relationships..
Close Family Ties. Filipinos maintain a tight relationship with their families regardless if the children are old enough and already have families of their own. They are also fond of family reunions during birthdays, holidays, or fiestas year-round..
Simbang Gabi. Simbang Gabi is a Filipino tradition that consists of a novena of Masses in honor of the Blessed Mother that begins on December 16 (or 15 in the afternoon) and concludes on the 24th, with the Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve..
Sinulog Festival. Sinulog Festival is a traditional celebration in Cebu City held every third Sunday of January to honor the Santo Niño (Child Jesus). Basically, the festival is done by a dance ritual, in which it tells the story of the Filipino people's pagan past and their acceptance of Christianity..
Ati-Atihan Festival. Ati-Atihan, observed in honor of the Child Jesus. Ati-atihan means 'making like Atis,' that is, pretending to be like the aboriginal natives that once inhabited Aklan. This involves smearing oneself with soot to darken the skin and dressing up in tribal finery..
Tinikling. Tinikling is a traditional Philippine folk dance which originated prior to Spanish colonialism in the area. The dance involves at least two people beating, tapping, and sliding bamboo poles on the ground and against each other in coordination with one or more dancers.
Filipinos traditionally eat three main meals a day:.
Traditional Filipino cuisine is a vibrant fusion of flavors, influenced by Malay, Spanish, Chinese, and American culinary traditions. It features dishes such as adobo (meat marinated in vinegar and soy sauce), sinigang (tangy soup with tamarind base), and lechon (roast pig), showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Philippines..
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