How Learning Philippine Mythology and Folklore Can Shape Our Future

The Aswang Project 

By Rob Pastera

Renowned folklorists and anthropologists, Profs. Maximo Ramos and Felipe Landa Jocano emphasized the significance of Philippine Mythology in understanding the culture, values, and traditions of the Filipino people. They argued that this plethora of knowledge plays an important role in the daily lives of Filipinos, both during their time and for future generations. Albeit complex, the stories of the old, the beliefs in higher and lower mythology, as well as the traditional knowledge systems, are intertwined in the study of the history and culture of the country.

The strong emphasis on the role of Philippine Mythology in Filipino Culture isn’t enough to answer the lack of research on the integration of Philippine Mythology into the formal education system of the Philippines. One of the few research projects that tackles the importance of teaching Philippine Mythology, is by Sugue and Reyes in 2022. Sugue and Reyes (2022) emphasized the connection between the culture and history of the Filipino people as literary art forms and suggests that the recognition and preservation of Philippine mythology can be integrated into the curriculum through various means.

In addition to the above perspective, there are several reasons why the study of mythology is beneficial to students. This includes its benefits to the promotion of reading literacy of Filipinos, the reflection of the innate moral values of the society, the promotion of critical thinking for decision making, and the preservation and acknowledgment of different cultures of the people.

The literacy of Filipinos

A study by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) in 2018 revealed that Filipinos scored lowest in reading comprehension. This means that Filipinos may have difficulties comprehending readings and navigating through formal instructions. In addition, this low reading comprehension level may hinder the student’s ability to participate in academic engagements and interpret complex texts and ideas.

Ambayon (2020) claimed that mythology and folklore play an important role in promoting literacy across societies. Various cultures across the globe emphasize the importance of storytelling to the cognitive and emotional development of children, with mothers and fathers reading short stories before bed, this prompts their children to be active readers and explore the world of fantasy.

In the context of the Philippines, using resources that incorporate Philippine Mythology can increase the interest of readers and students due to their familiarity with the elements of the story. Through a heightened interest in the text, the readers will be more motivated to read by themselves and with autonomy (Pinoliad, 2021). Furthermore, exposure to these reading materials can allow the readers to improve their vocabulary skills, which is an essential component of reading comprehension.

The Moral Values of Filipinos

Mythologies, in general, play an important role in society through their reflection and distinction of what is right and wrong. Mythology and folklore are not just stories to scare or entertain, rather, these are vehicles for social, historical, and moral values of a certain society for the members of each generation to learn (Adhikari and Saha, 2021; Prihapsari et al. 2021; Sugue & Reyes, 2022). Highlighting the importance of having the right principles and moral obligations is part of the unwritten purpose of mythology and folklore, specifically, to be viewed as a vehicle for didacticism.

A significant number of folk literature and mythological stories are centered around the idea of having role models. A few examples are Bantugan from the Maranao epic “Darangën”, who is known for his strength and courage, Lam-Ang from the Ilocano epic “Biag ni Lam-Ang” who is known for his courage and intelligence, Maria Makiling a Diwata from Laguna who is known for her kindness and compassion, and lastly, Nagmalitong Yawa Sinagmaling Diwata from the Hinilawod who is known for her (his, as he transformed into Datu Sunmasakay) courage. These characters from folk literature inspired generations of Filipinos to be functional and morally upright by sustaining the social order and cohesion of their communities.

In addition to the prevalence of role models, is the idea of how Filipinos value their nature and environment. Filipinos exercise moral obligations in the protection of the environment. A study by Aruta and Paceño (2022), mentioned that social responsibility facilitates the transmission of healthy attitudes and perspectives to the environment. Furthermore, the beliefs of nature inhabitants like the Kapre, Tikbalang, Tamawo, etc., are helping the Filipinos across the country to be known and unknown stewards of their environment.

Can beliefs in the unknown help Critical Thinking and Creativity?

Critical thinking is one of the valued skills these days as it provides students with the opportunity to think outside the box and see ideas through a different lens. Folklore and mythological stories are filled with various themes, symbols, and social issues that require careful analysis and metacognition for better understanding and comprehension. Through a heightened interest in local beliefs and stories, students will be more engaged in thinking for more viable and practical solutions in solving problems that they encounter daily.

Various examples of heroes that emulated critical thinking skills are Bantugan, Handyong, Lam-Ang, and Humadapnon. These heroes displayed their critical thinking skills by strategizing and thinking of various ways to win their battles and continue their adventures. This can inspire the students to think of ways on how they can deal with possible challenges while keeping a morally upright attitude.

Aside from the aforementioned stories, beliefs in supernatural beings also help in the development of the critical thinking skills of students. The aswang, for example, are known as ferocious monsters who feed on humans. However, the belief in the aswang when contextualized with history, gender, or social issues, will result in different interpretations of its role in the community; prompting the students to think and reassess the importance of thorough research to construct their understanding of different concepts. Thereby promoting an open mind and critical mindset.

To achieve such level of critical thinking, it is also important to acknowledge creativity that is achieved through hard work. Various mythological beings value hard work and perseverance and reward people with blessings and gifts. The presence of these stories and mythological beings and stories not only inspires the students to create art forms but also gives them the reality check that they can achieve such skills through dedication.

 

Many Cultures yet united

Philippine mythology is a part of the country’s Intangible Cultural Heritage that is passed on to future generations. As a multiethnic society, a comprehensive study of the Philippines will require years of research and tons of readings for the students to engage in. With this, the availability of folk literature and mythology will provide a general idea of how knowledge systems from various cultural communities were built and sustained through the years.

The study of Philippine mythology can help students understand multiculturalism and the importance of heritage preservation (Lobo, 2023; Mendonça et al., 2020; Sugue & Reyes, 2022; Tamayo, 2023). There is no one-culture description-fits-all in the context of the Philippines. Each has its unique interpretation and traditional knowledge systems. Depending on the needs of the community members, various community leaders, or even elders, tend to provide their understanding of different phenomena. With this comes varied mythological beings, epic heroes, mythological events, and places.

Despite the individual interpretations of one’s reality, mythological beliefs, when carefully analyzed, cross boundaries. The beliefs in Mebuyan of the Bagobo showcase the importance of mothers in every Filipino society. The beliefs in the duwende, taong lipod, tamawo, Diwata, and engkantos are available in almost all Filipino communities; with a common distinction as creatures of the forests, it warns people to be careful while journeying alone or at night.

Multiculturalism should be viewed as an important quality of the Philippines as it levels the significance of each ethnolinguistic group and provinces to the eyes of the students. This also prompts the students to fight for the preservation and promotion of various intangible cultural heritage of the Philippines by engraining these values in their own.

To sum it up, integrating Philippine Mythology into the current curriculum of the Philippines will contribute to the holistic development of Filipino students by allowing them to be literate, think critically, and be morally upright citizens. This will further lead to a brighter future for them as they will be grounded to the innate values and traditions of their countrymen. To integrate and teach Philippine Mythology and Folklore to the students comprehensively, is to live up to the visions of Professors Maximo Ramos and Felipe Landa-Jocano.

 

References:

Adhikari, A., & Saha, B. (2021). Shakuntala: As Authored by Kalidas and Painted by Raja Ravi Varma. Galore International Journal of Applied Sciences and Humanities, 5(4), 45–53. https://doi.org/10.52403/gijash.20211008

Ambayon, C. M. (2020). Modular-Based Approach and Students’ Achievement in Literature. International Journal of Education and Literacy Studies. https://doi.org/10.7575/aiac.ijels.v.8n.3p.32

Aruta, J. J. B. R., & Paceño, J. L. (2021). Social Responsibility Facilitates the Intergenerational Transmission of Attitudes Toward Green Purchasing in a Non-Western Country: Evidence from the Philippines. Ecopsychology, 14(1), 37–46. https://doi.org/10.1089/eco.2021.0016

Lobo, J. (2023). Protecting Philippine Dance Traditions via Education of Tomorrow’s Pedagogues: The Role of Individual Interest and School Engagement. Journal of Ethnic and Cultural Studies, 10(1), 98–124. https://doi.org/10.29333/ejecs/1527

Mendonça, S. A., Macena, B. C. L., De Araújo, C. G. B., Bezerra, N. P. A., & Hazin, F. H. V. (2020). Dancing with the Devil: courtship behaviour, mating evidences and population structure of the Mobula tarapacana (Myliobatiformes: Mobulidae) in a remote archipelago in the Equatorial Mid-Atlantic Ocean. Neotropical Ichthyology, 18(3). https://doi.org/10.1590/1982-0224-2020-0008

Mioten, E. (2022). Addressing the Philippines’ learning crisis. BusinessWorld Online. https://www.bworldonline.com/special-features/2022/09/05/474223/addressing-the-philippines-learning-crisis/#:~:text=The%20Philippines%20scored%20the%20lowest,489%20points%20in%20both%20subjects.

Pinoliad, E. (2021). Contextualization in Teaching Short Stories: Students’ Interest and Comprehension. Middle Eastern Journal of Research in Education and Social Sciences, 2(1), 31–55. https://doi.org/10.47631/mejress.v2i1.167

Prihapsari, I., Andayani, & Suwandi, S. (2021). The Study of the Didactic Values in the Folklore of the Origin of Boyolali Regency Name. International Journal of Research and Scientific Innovation, 08(02), 221–223. https://doi.org/10.51244/ijrsi.2021.8204

Sugue, A. S., & Reyes, M. (2022). Rediscovering the Value of Philippine Mythology for Philippine Schools: Literature Review. International Journal of Language and Literary Studies, 4(3), 329–341. https://doi.org/10.36892/ijlls.v4i3.1057

Tamayo, J. a. L. L. (2023). SAYAW NG BATI: A PERSPECTIVE ON TRANSCULTURATION OF THE SPANISH COLONIAL HERITAGE IN THE SOUTHERN TAGALOG REGION OF THE PHILIPPINES. Különleges Bánásmód, 9(1), 173–188. https://doi.org/10.18458/kb.2023.1.173

Robert John Pastera

Robert John Pastera is a college lecturer who specializes in teaching Language, Culture, Society, Ideas and Innovations, and Literature. He previously handled courses in Social Sciences, History, and Mythology and Folklore as a faculty member of a State University in Camarines Sur, Philippines. Robert has a deep passion for exploring the diverse cultural traditions and beliefs of various ethnic communities in the Philippines and is advocating for its inclusion to the curriculum of the country. He has a particular fondness for the Batibat, a mythological being known for causing nightmares and sleep paralysis in Philippine folklore. Robert is also a photographer and videographer, capturing the beauty of the world around him through his lens.

Mythological Creatures in Japan and the Philippines

In may aspects, the Philippines and Japan have similarities. They are both archipelagos, both have three main islands, and both are often in the line of typhoons several times a year.

It is not surprising then, that when it comes to mythological creatures, Japan and the Philippines also share similarities. Because mythological creatures are often created based on the environment. For example, a volcanic island, will have creatures of fire and lava in their myths. Islands often have sea creatures, like mermaids and giant squids. In the Philippines, there are mythological monsters that are surprisingly similar ones in Japan. 

Japan and The Philippines Mythological Creatures Part 1 

Japan and The Philippines Mythological Creatures Part 2

Archive: The Philippines' Martial Law

THE PHILIPPINES: Marcos' Martial Law

Monday, Oct. 02, 1972

Without warning, police squads late last week walked into Manila's newspaper offices and broadcast stations, ordered staffers to leave and posted announcements Stating THIS BUILDING IS CLOSED AND SEALED AND PLACED UNDER MILITARY CONTROL. Domestic air flights were grounded and overseas telephone operators refused to accept incoming calls. Finally, after several hours of mystifying silence, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos went on nationwide radio and TV to proclaim a state of martial law. Civil government would be continued, he said, but campuses would be closed. Restrictions on travel, the press and communications would remain in force until the government dealt with "a conspiracy to overthrow the government."

It was a drastic step; martial law had never before been imposed in the Philippines, despite the country's long history of social and political violence. And yet, though troops took up positions all over Manila, there were few other visible signs of emergency. Nightclubs, casinos and movie theaters remained open; shoppers were out in their usual numbers the next day. Filipinos accepted the measures calmly, even cynically, for they had been widely anticipated.

Only two weeks ago, in an atmosphere of rapidly increasing belligerence between the Marcos regime, its political opposition and a burgeoning Philippine revolutionary movement, the President warned that he would not hesitate to assume emergency powers if he deemed them necessary. He finally did so six hours after an unsuccessful attempt to assassinate one of Marcos' chief aides, Defense Secretary Juan Ponce Enrile. As the Secretary was heading home from his office in Manila, a carload of gunmen intercepted his car and riddled it with 30 shots; Enrile, who was riding with security men in a second car, was unhurt. The gunmen escaped unidentified.

As Brigadier General Alfredo Montoya, boss of Manila's tough metropolitan police, put the regime's case last week, Marcos' measures only reflected "a need to discipline our people." Ostensibly, the crackdown is aimed at a Maoist-inspired (and Peking-supported) guerrilla movement known as the New People's Army, which the government blamed for the attempt on Enrile's life and for bombings that have rocked the Manila area recently. With about 1,000 arms-carrying guerrillas, the N.P.A. is nowhere near as large as was the Communist Hukbalahap movement that terrorized Luzon in the 1940s and '50s; but it enjoys wide support, not only in the countryside but among disaffected urban workers and intellectuals.

Another target of the regime's "discipline," besides the N.P.A. guerrillas, was the President's vocal political opponents. The morning after martial law was declared, police arrested a number of Marcos' critics. Among them: the publisher of the Manila Times and Senator Benigno Aquino, a leader of the opposition Liberal Party.

Aquino, whom Marcos has accused of collaborating with the N.P.A., had backed a Manila rally—held the day before the crackdown—at which 30,000 Filipinos protested that the Marcos regime would use terrorist violence as an excuse to employ emergency powers to silence the opposition.

Seven years ago, Marcos came to power as an immensely popular reform President, but opposition to his regime has been growing rapidly in recent months. Large sectors of Philippine society are waiting for tangible relief from poverty, inflation and a political system that remains responsive mainly to a propertied oligarchy. Land-reform programs remain unfunded; more than 400,000 of the country's 1,000,000 university graduates are without meaningful jobs. The benefits of the country's gradual economic expansion have been slow to trickle down to most of its 38 million people. As a result of this summer's record floods, which devastated much of Luzon and set the economy back five years by some estimates, that trickle will be slowed even further —perhaps with explosive results.

From TIME: THE PHILIPPINES: Marcos' Martial Law 

Politics in the Philippines: The Dutertes

The Duterte Family's Plan for the Next Election Highlights the Problem of Political Dynasties in the Philippines

BY CHAD DE GUZMAN 

 

NOVEMBER 18, 2021 1:37 AM EST

Outgoing Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte finalized his candidacy Monday for a senate seat in elections scheduled for May 2022, just days after his daughter Sara Duterte-Carpio filed her bid for the vice presidency.

The move is seen as an effort by the Dutertes to enhance their prominence in a country notorious for its dynastic politics—as well as an attempt by the the 76-year-old leader to evade accountability for his war on drugs. The brutal crackdown has left more than 20,000 dead, by some estimates, and seen Duterte become the focus of an International Criminal Court probe.

Philippine presidents enjoy legal immunity while in office, but are constitutionally barred from serving more than a single six-year term. While immunity won’t continue in the senate, securing a seat in the upper chamber would still afford Duterte important protections: privilege from arrest for certain crimes while congress is in session, and formidable political clout.

“Maybe he still wants to be in the mix—to be a Senate President, to still be a player,” says Richard Heydarian, associate professor of politics at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines.

True, Duterte may have to surrender his dream of a dynastic successor—at least for now. His daughter, Duterte-Carpio, has been edged out of the top spot in pre-election polling by the son (and namesake) of late dictator Ferdinand Marcos, who is now the top choice to become the Philippines’ next leader.

But by not vying with Marcos Jr., and instead standing for vice president alongside him, Duterte-Carpio will bolster the positions of both families in the country of 110 million.

The Dutertes “have now settled for silver,” Heydarian tells TIME. “It seems contesting the gold would be a lose-lose for both sides, because that would have split the vote of the pro-administration side between the Marcoses and the Dutertes.”

For Philippine voters, however, the long-standing problem of dynastic politics remains. If she wins the vice presidency, Duterte-Carpio might also shield her father from legal battles, ensuring a long wait in store for those hoping for swift justice for abuses carried out during his bloody reign.

Dynastic politics in the Philippines

Global politics is rife with dynasties, from the Shinawatras of Thailand, to the Bushes and Kennedys of the U.S., and the Nehru-Gandhis of India. But what makes the Philippines unique, according to the dean of the Ateneo School of Government (ASOG), Ronald Mendoza, is the sheer extent to which such families run the country—even though the constitution specifically requires the state to “prohibit political dynasties as may be defined by law.”

“I don’t think it’s matched anywhere else in the world,” he tells TIME. As if to prove the point, Duterte’s two sons are eyeing congressional and mayoral seats in the upcoming elections.

Research by ASOG showed that 80% of the governors, 67% of congressmen, and 53% of mayors who won office in the 2019 Philippine elections belonged to “fat dynasties”—the name given to families holding multiple elective posts.

Many businesses are also concentrated in the hands of relatives or cronies of political families, adds Mendoza, who observes “blatant” increases in wealth among politicians while in office. “The overlap between politics and economics is not a very healthy one, because it’s the same overlap that will actually snuff out competition,” he says.

A report by the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism in 2019 claimed to find spikes in the wealth of members of the Duterte family after they entered public office. The family denied wrongdoing, countered that the money came from private ventures. But whatever the truth, it seems clear that rule by political families has been generally associated with negative outcomes—whether in the Philippines or elsewhere.

Dynasties tend to thrive in the poorest Philippine regions, where politicians find it easier to wield patronage. Once in office, families gain access to government coffers. That’s why the fight for regional power can be stiff, and in areas with two or more competing clans, it can even become bloody: the warring of two political families in the southern province of Maguindanao caused the deaths of 58 people, including 32 journalists, in 2009.

Bills have been proposed to impose term limits on government officials who are related to each other, but these have languished when tabled before congressmen—many of whom belong to political dynasties themselves.

The Duterte family on the national stage

Duterte-Carpio was vice mayor to her father in 2007, during one of his terms as the mayor of the southern Philippine city of Davao, and she is the city’s mayor today. With her vice presidential bid, she will be hoping to make the same leap into countrywide politics that her father did in 2015.

If she succeeds, and if her brothers follow the same path, the Dutertes may emerge as the next national dynasty of consequence.

The other Duterte children certainly don’t seem short of ambition. Paolo Duterte has faced accusations from political opponents of links to drug smuggling and organized crime—allegations that he was eventually cleared of—but he has managed to acquire congressional experience and for a time was deputy speaker of the house for political affairs. The youngest sibling, Sebastian, was elected vice mayor of Davao City in 2019.

Critics argue that family politics, and the machinations of the leading dynasties, are ultimately a distraction from the real issues facing the Philippines—from pandemic recovery and graft to lagging infrastructure and poverty—preventing the emergence of the kind of leadership required to take the country forward.

Says Mendoza: “What we get is the telenovela that captures our imaginations and distracts us from the deeper questions that we must ask them to answer in order to be better judges of who would be the best leader for us in May 2022.”

Politics in the Philippines: The Dutertes 

Similarities and Differences of Other Countries Compared with the Philippines

10 countries similar to the Philippines

The Philippines is a country in Insular Southeast Asia. However, few countries in the region have a high degree of similarity to it. This is in part because the Philippines was colonized by both Spain and later the United States, leading to its highly unique character. The five most similar countries to the Philippines are all located on mountainous tropical islands. Most people in four of the five most similar countries natively speak Austronesian languages. Interestingly enough, four of the ten most similar countries are in Latin America.

1. Indonesia‘s geography is very similar to the Philippines. It is also composed of densely populated tropical islands with many volcanos. Their people have relatively similar demographics and standard of living. In addition, rice is the most commonly grown crop in both countries. However, the biggest difference between the Philippines and Indonesia is religion. Most Filipinos are Catholic, while Indonesians are predominately Sunni Muslims. This difference creates divergent culture and politics.
2. Malaysia is highly similar to Indonesia. However it is lower on this list because it has higher standard of living than both Indonesia and the Philippines. It also has more of a British influence, since it had once been one of its colonies, so it drives on left and uses Type G electrical outlets. Unlike the Philippines, it is a parliamentary democracy with a constitutional monarch. Furthermore, a large percentage of Malaysia’s population is ethnically Chinese.
3. Samoa is a group of tropical islands in Polynesia. It is another country that natively speaks an Austronesian language, but also has English as one of their official languages. However, Samoa was once a colony of New Zealand, not the United States, so its culture and infrastructure is more similar to New Zealand. Like Filipinos, Samoans are mostly Christian, but they have more Protestants and less Catholics.
4. Dominican Republic, like the Philippines, had periods of being colonized by both Spain and the United States. So it is no surprise that the Dominican Republic would be high on this list, despite being in North America. Both countries are mostly Catholic and have few atheists. They also share American traits like using 911 for emergencies, driving on the right side of the road, and having Type A, B electrical outlets. In addition, both countries have a relatively similar standard of living.
5. East Timor is the only other predominately Catholic country in Asia, since it was formerly a colony of Portugal. It gained its independence from Indonesia in 2002. However, its people have a greater degree of Melanesian ancestry than Filipinos. In addition, English is not in widespread use in East Timor. While both countries tend to eat a lot of rice, people in East Timor tend to eat more corn.
6. Vanuatu, 7. Vietnam, 8. Panama, 9. Guatemala, 10. Colombia

10 Countries Least Similar to the Philippines

The four least similar countries to the Philippines are all Nordic countries. Not only is their climate much colder than the Philippines, but they are much wealthier and their infrastructure is better developed. Although these countries are predominately Christian, unlike the Philippines, they are mostly Protestant and much less religious. These countries are also far more sparsely populated and their cities tend to have less skyscrapers and high-rises.

1. Finland‘s geography is quite cold, relatively flat, and has a lot of freshwater lakes. It also has a much higher standard of living. While both countries are Christian, Finland is Protestant and much less religious, like other Nordic countries. It uses the parliamentary form of government and its laws are less conservative than laws in the Philippines.
2. Iceland is a well developed but sparsely populated country, in contrast to the Philippines. Not only are their demographics and culture quite different from Philippines, but also their geography. Iceland’s climate is much colder and hardly any of their land is used for agriculture. Iceland also uses far more electricity and creates much of it by using geothermal energy. Still, both countries are mountainous islands.
3. Sweden is similar to its neighbor to the east, Finland. Its demographics, culture, geography, technology, and politics are all fairly different from the Philippines. Its government is also much more liberal and also less authoritarian. Sweden is also does far better in the Olympics. Furthermore, its people are more interested in ice hockey and soccer, while people in the Philippines are more interested in basketball.
4. Norway is yet another wealthy Nordic country on this list. Its demographics are extremely different to the Philippines. Its people are much taller and heavier. Furthermore, its government has more entitlements for its citizens, like tuition free college and welfare for the unemployed. However, the country’s long coastline and relatively mountainous geography pushes it slightly lower down on this list relative to the other Nordic countries.
5. Libya is a country located in North Africa. It is located in the Sahara Desert so its climate is much drier than the Philippines. It is also significantly less densely populated. Furthermore, Libya’s terrain is relatively flat. Unlike the Philippines, it is mostly Muslim. Since the official language is Arabic, unlike other countries on this list, it does not use the Latin alphabet.
6. Saudi Arabia, 7. Switzerland, 8. Luxembourg, 9. Kuwait, 10. Yemen

 List of Countries that are Similar and Different from the Philippines

Know Before You Go: Philippines

Located in the Pacific Ocean near the equator, the Republic of the Philippines consists of around 7,640 islands — about 2,000 of which are inhabited — that form an archipelago. The country can be divided into three main areas: Luzon (the largest, northernmost island, which includes Manila); a group of islands called the Visayas (including the major islands Panay, Negros, Cebu, Bohol, Leyte, Samar, and Masbate); and Mindanao, the second-largest island in the Philippines, found at the southern end of the archipelago.

From bustling cities to stunning beaches and mountains, the Philippines has a lot to offer adventurous explorers. Here are a few tips, tricks, and resources for travelers looking to find fun in the Philippines.

CITIES TO VISIT

Manila
Manila, known as the “Pearl of the Orient”, is the nation’s capital city. This bustling historic city is full of things to see and do — including museums, parks, theaters, shopping malls and a plethora of restaurants to choose from. The Philippines is quickly becoming a destination for foodies, and Manila is well known for its varied cuisine and street food markets, like the Legazpi Sunday Market, Quiapo Market, and the country’s very own Chinatown, Binondo.

The Casa Manila museum in Intramuros depicts the Spanish colonial era of the Philippines.

PHOTOGRAPH BY TOOYKRUB, SHUTTERSTOCK

Sustainable travel tip:
Many street vendors sell fresh fruit drinks great for cooling down on hot days, so bring your own metal straw and reusable bottle to prevent unnecessary plastic waste.

Davao City
Considered the largest city in the Philippines (by size) and capital city of the Davao region, Davao City is a great getaway. Popular destinations include Eden Nature Park (a mountain resort perfect for relaxation), Malagos Garden Resort (a 12-hectare nature theme park that features the first chocolate museum in the Philippines), and Jack’s Ridge (a dining destination with a spectacular view of the city). Mount Apo, the highest mountain in the Philippines and a mountaineer’s dream, is also in Davao City. Its highest point reaches an elevation of 2,954 meters (9,692 feet). Davao is also known as the home to the critically-endangered bird species the Philippine Eagle (also known as the monkey-eating eagle), which was named as the national bird of the Philippines.

Cebu City
A perfect balance of island coast and cosmopolitan living, Cebu City is one of the Philippines’ top destinations among both foreign and domestic travelers. It’s also the country’s oldest city and one of the birthplaces of Christianity in the Philippines. Just outside the city’s borders, tourists can enjoy swimming with a variety of species off the coast of the island, or they can try more adventurous activities like canyoneering at Kawasan Falls.

Vigan
Dating back to the Spanish colonial era, Vigan sits on the western coast of the island of Luzon, near Manila. Historic Vigan is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is full of unique architecture reflecting a fusion of Asian and European design, and cobblestone streets.

The streets of the historic Colonial town of Vigan portray a mix of Asian and European influences.

PHOTOGRAPH BY DANIEL ANDIS, SHUTTERSTOCK

Sustainable travel tip:
Bring along an eco-bag when you visit the small shops of Vigan to reduce the need for a plastic bag.

BEACHES

Since the Philippines has thousands of islands, visitors are never far from a beach. You might want to try one of these under-the-radar locations that are emerging as popular beach destinations that go above and beyond the Philippines’ most well-known beach, Boracay.

Panglao Island (Bohol)
The main gateway to the province of Bohol, Panglao Island to the southwest is a 20-kilometer long limestone island known for its popular diving spots. You’ll also find many white-sand beaches like Alona, Tawala, Dumaluan, and Doljo, all accessed via the newly-built Panglao-Bohol International Airport.

Panglao houses some of Bohol’s premium accommodation establishments offering 5-star amenities and services. The island also serves as the jumping point for other water-based adventures, such as dolphin and whale watching at Pamilacan Island, and diving at Balicasag Island.

The white-sand shores and clear waters of Panglao Island in the Philippines are perfect for snorkeling.

PHOTOGRAPH BY KJERSTI JOERGENSEN, SHUTTERSTOCK

Sustainable travel tip:
Look for sunscreens labeled “reef safe”, which are formulated without ingredients that can be toxic to coral reefs and marine life.

El Nido
El Nido, part of Palawan Island, has white-sand beaches, limestone cliffs, coral reefs, and clear, fish-filled waters, so it’s a popular spot for swimming, diving, and kayaking. El Nido serves as a jumping-off point for island-hopping and exploring the secrets of the Bacuit Archipelago.

It’s easy to find peace amongst the picturesque and uninhabited landscape of White Island, found just off the n...

PHOTOGRAPH BY PAUL KISS, SHUTTERSTOCK

Camiguin
Known as the Island Born of Fire, Camiguin is a pear-shaped island with 7 volcanoes that formed many of its unique attractions. The island is full of natural wonders, including lagoons and lakes; cold, hot and soda springs; pristine waterfalls; and white-sand beaches on par with the finest in the country.

Siargao
If surfing is more your style, this lesser-known location, near the island of Mindanao, is renowned for its quality waves, cool island culture, beautiful reefs, blue waters, and stunning resorts.

Sustainable travel tip:
Visiting lesser-known spots such as Siargao doesn't just mean fewer lines and better selfies, but a decreased impact on the environment.

WILDLIFE AND NATURAL BEAUTY

Calauit Island
Calauit Island, known for the crystal-clear waters off its shores, offers eco-tourists the chance to swim with dugongs. These animals, which are related to manatees, are believed to have inspired legends about mermaids. Locals on Calauit Island lead conservation-minded tours and teach tourists about dugongs and how they can help ensure their continued survival.

Sustainable travel tip:
To ensure the sustainability of the ocean ecosystems, please do not touch the corals. Local vendors have a wide selection of souvenirs.

A dugong — an animal similar to a manatee — seen swimming in the water.

PHOTOGRAPH BY VKILIKOV, SHUTTERSTOCK

Left: A dugong — an a

A school of fish help nurture the local ecosystem at a coral reef off Pescador Island.

PHOTOGRAPH BY ANDAMAN, SHUTTERSTOCK

A panoramic view of the Chocolate Hills can be found when exploring Bohol.

PHOTOGRAPH BY KHOROSHUNOVA OLGA, SHUTTERSTOCK

Chocolate Hills
On the island of Bohol, the famous Chocolate Hills look like something from another world as they seem to tumble out, one after another, for as far as the eye can see. The beautiful landscape is actually a natural formation that slowly took shape over eons. In the summer, when the 1,200+ peaked and rounded mounds aren’t covered in green vegetation, they’re said to look like — you guessed it — chocolate. The majestic Chocolate Hills has been designated as a National Geological Monument by the Philippines.

Ifugao Rice Terraces
The Ifugao Rice Terraces are another example of the beautiful landscapes that can be found throughout the Philippines. The mountains of the Ifugao province have been cultivated for thousands of years with terraced fields where rice is farmed. Not only are the rice terraces beautiful to behold, but they’re also an example of industry working in harmony with nature.

Discover ornate rice terraces while exploring in Ifugao.

PHOTOGRAPH BY R.M. NUNES, SHUTTERSTOCK

NATIONAL PARKS

The Philippines is home to more than 30 national parks, including these top-rated ones: Calauit Safari Park, Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, Aurora Memorial National Park, Biak-na-Bato National Park, Caramoan Peninsula National Park, Libmanan Caves National Park, Mounts Iglit–Baco National Park Fuyot Springs National Park and Minalungao National Park. The parks offer activities like zip lining, boating, camping, hiking, river cruising, wildlife spotting, snorkeling, and kayaking.

Walk amongst well-preserved wildlife at the Calauit Safari Park on the 3,700-hectare island of Calauit.

PHOTOGRAPH BY AQUAFINA2015, SHUTTERSTOCK

Sustainable travel tip:
There are dedicated companies that specialize in eco-tourism, and resources, such as Simply Philippines, to help make sustainable adventure more accessible.

BEFORE YOU GO

Travel requirements
Travelers from the U.S. will need a valid passport but do not need to secure a visa to visit the Philippines. The World Health Organization recommends the following vaccinations for traveling to the islands: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, cholera, yellow fever, Japanese encephalitis, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), T-DAP (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, and influenza.

When to go
The high season for tourism is December to April. The Philippines is a tropical country, and the hotter, drier months (85 degrees F and up) are March through June. July through October brings the potential for typhoons; the “cooler” season runs from November to February, when it remains at around 78 degrees F. The further south you go, the more humid the weather gets, and rain showers are likely regardless of the season.

Sustainable travel tip:
Don’t purchase travel-sized toiletries in plastic bottles. Instead, use refillable containers or look for packaging-free alternatives, like shampoo bars. You can also find multi-use products, like Castile soaps, that can be used for washing your hair, body, and even clothing.

What to pack
Bring lightweight, comfortable clothing (it can be casual) and make sure to pack a swimsuit if you plan on heading to the beach or doing any boating or diving. You’ll want to have a pair of sunglasses as well as rain gear, and make sure to bring comfortable shoes like sneakers or sandals. A waterproof bag can be helpful for keeping electronics, like phones and cameras, dry. Sunscreen and a mosquito repellent that contains DEET are must-bring items.

Sustainable travel tip:
It always helps to bring your own reusable bag or bag-for-life along with your backpack to prevent additional plastic waste.

Getting around
Most people traveling to the Philippines from the U.S. will probably fly into Manila’s NAIA airport or the more recently opened Mactan-Cebu International Airport, which was named the Asia-Pacific Medium Airport of the Year in the CAPA 2018 Asia Aviation Awards for Excellence.

If you want to go to multiple islands, you can find flights that connect to smaller airports throughout the Philippines. Traveling by boat is also an option when getting to many of the islands in the region. If you’re in one of the major cities, “jeepneys” — small and colorful buses — are a popular way to get around.

Currency
The Philippine Peso is the official currency of the Philippines. Each peso consists of 100 centavos. Bills and coins are used in the Philippines. It’s easy to exchange money at a shopping mall, and traveler’s checks are usually accepted for money exchange. ATMs are readily available in the major cities, but if you’re traveling to smaller islands or more remote areas, it’s a good idea to stock up on cash before your arrival. Credit cards are accepted in the bigger cities and more populated beach areas. Keep your small change for paying jeepney drivers.

Sustainable travel tip:
Consider donating your leftover currency at the end of your trip to a local charity dedicated to cleaning beaches or preserving wildlife.

Language and culture
Filipino and English are the official languages of the Philippines — but the Philippines is an ethnically diverse country (and was a Spanish colony for 300 years), so more than 150 languages are spoken in the region. Tagalog is a common dialect.

The dominant religion in the Philippines is Catholicism, and churches abound throughout the country. The older generations in the Philippines tend to be quite religious.

You’ll find churches like the Manila Cathedral are common throughout the Philippines, where Catholicism is the dominant religion.

PHOTOGRAPH BY RICHIE CHAN, SHUTTERSTOCK

DOS AND DON’TS

You might want to purchase travel insurance before heading out on your Filipino adventure. Check with the U.S. Department of State for the latest information on any current travel advisories. As with travel to any foreign region, make sure to remain mindful of personal safety at all times.

It’s considered polite to use respectful terms like “Sir” or “Ma’am.” Familial words like Tito/Tita (Uncle/Aunt) for elders, Lolo/Lola (grandfather/grandmother), and Kuya/Ate (older brother/sister) can be used; the words “Po” and “Opo” are terms of respect. Don’t refer to older people by their first names.

Always be friendly and wave back at anyone who waves to you. Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated. Don’t lose your temper or be confrontational; do not refuse food or hospitality when it’s offered to you. Don’t walk alone, particularly at night, and keep your belongings close to you at all times. Never insult the Philippines or Filipino people.

Source: Know Before You Go: Philippines