The Philippine culture is rich in traditions and customs, which can often date back to the years of its creation. Over a century ago, the American culture began having a prominent influence on the Philippines. The speaking of the English language in the Philippines is due to the U.S. occupation of the country. It quickly became one of the most westernized nations in Southeast Asia. The American culture increased the demand for fast food and its chains have spread all over. Filipinos started listening and dancing to the latest American music, watching American films, and developing a liking towards Hollywood actors. Yet, due to the presence of Muslim and tribal groups, some old Malay traditions related to dance, sculpture and music still remained. Under the promotion of the Roman Catholic Church, architecture also included religious icons for expression.
Their ethnicity accurately reflects the complexity of its country’s’ history and foreign influences. Their colorful and lively way of life is what separates them the rest of the world. The fusion of different customs further extends to friendship, bondage in families, commitment and nationalism. The basic principal of the Filipino nation is to always follow their moral values, respect their elders and family members, and truly enjoy life.
The Philippines prides itself in being the only Christian nation in Asia, with more than eighty-five percent of the population being Catholic. Every night at nine p.m., the family says the rosary before going to bed. Children learn prayers as soon as they can speak and are introduced to a statue of “Mama Mary” at a very young age. Religion is the center of life for every Filipino including Catholics, Muslims, Buddhists, Protestants and animists. Even though the majority of the public is celebrates Catholicism, freedom of religion is guaranteed by the constitution. Sunni Muslims make up the largest non-Christian group. They live mostly in Mindanao and the Sulu Islands but recently have been drifting to other provinces. Mosques are located in large cities throughout the country, and Muslims honor Islamic religious holidays as legal holidays. Animism, the belief that natural objects have souls, is the oldest religion and is practiced by natives in the mountains of Luzon. The occasional disagreement between the Muslim population and the government is not really about rejection of particular beliefs but political goals. The acceptance of any religions’ symbols or prayers in public venues is entirely allowed. If there is one thing that has held the Filipino country together through the years, it is the freedom to worship and strengthen their faith.
