The roar of the engine, the kaleidoscope of colours flashing past, the unique blend of organised chaos – these are the hallmarks of the Philippines’ Iconic Jeepney. More than just a mode of public transportation, the jeepney is a rolling symbol of Filipino culture, resilience, and artistry. It’s the undisputed King of the Road in […]
Jeepney: How many people can fit inside? Read More »
Imagine a time before Spanish galleons crossed the Pacific, a vibrant era in the archipelago now known as the Philippines. Societies flourished with their own systems of governance, trade, spirituality, and, crucially, writing. Among the most prominent of these was Tagalog Baybayin, an elegant ancient Philippine script used by Tagalog speakers in Luzon. Its delicate
Tagalog Baybayin: Exploring the Ancient Philippine Script Read More »
Long before the arrival of the Spanish colonizers and the Latin alphabet that dominates the Philippines today, the islands flourished with unique cultures, vibrant communities, and distinct forms of expression. Among the most fascinating and enduring legacies of this pre-colonial Philippines era is the Baybayin Writing System, an ancient Filipino script that served as a
The Baybayin Writing System Read More »
Unearthing a Written Legacy Imagine a time before Spanish galleons reached the shores of the Philippines, a time when vibrant communities thrived with their own unique cultures, traditions, and even their own systems of writing. Buried beneath layers of colonial history lies Baybayin, an ancient Filipino script that offers a profound connection to the nation’s
Baybayin: A Beginner’s Guide to the Ancient Filipino Script Read More »
The tapestry of global culture is woven with threads of epic narratives – grand stories passed down through generations, encapsulating the history, values, and soul of a people. Among these monumental works stands the Darangen, the extensive Maranao epic poem originating from the region surrounding Lake Lanao in Mindanao. More than just a story, the
Darangen: Maranao Epic Poem – A Cultural Treasure of the Philippines Read More »
A surprising statistic shows that in April 2023, the Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino (KWF) suggested using “Filipinas” instead of “Pilipinas.” This has started a big debate about the country’s name and its role in national identity. The term “Filipinas” was first used in the 16th century, during the Spanish colony. It stands for modernization and
Pinoy Pride & A New Name: Should We Change the Philippines’ Name? Read More »
The Philippines, a vibrant nation in Asia, has a rich and complex history shaped by centuries of colonization. Many wonder if its modern identity is merely a reflection of Spanish influence or if it stands as a unique blend of indigenous and foreign elements. This article explores whether today’s culture in the Philippines is just
Latin America East: Is Filipino Culture Just a Spanish Echo in the Philippines? Read More »
The Philippine-American War was a complex conflict that lasted from 1899 to 1902, marking a significant event in Philippines history. The war was sparked by the Philippine Revolution against Spanish colonial rule, which was followed by the Spanish-American War. The Philippines, with its diverse ethnic and racial groups, was divided along regional lines, making it
Betrayal and Disunity: Why the Philippines Lost the Philippine-American War Read More »
The Philippines is a nation rich in history and cultural diversity. One of the most fascinating aspects of its past is how Christianity became deeply rooted in its identity. Unlike simple religious conversion, Filipino ancestors embraced Christianity through a process of integration, blending it with their existing traditions and beliefs. According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary,
The practice of walking barefoot has historical roots in the Philippines, reflecting the country’s rich Filipino culture. This tradition holds significant historical significance, as it has been a part of the daily lives of many Filipinos, particularly in rural areas. Walking barefoot was a common practice, especially among the Tagalog people, who are historically connected
Walking Barefoot: A Historical Glimpse into the Lives of Our Filipino Lolos and Lolas Read More »
