Philippines culture is a mixture of a number of cultures which reflects the complexity of its history.
Due to foreign influences throughout the history, foreign cultures have been blended together to form the Philippine's culture.
Spanish colonization, from Mexico, of Philippines lasted for more than three centuries; from 1569 till 1898. This significant influence can be seen in many customs and tradition of Philippines. You can see Hispanic influences in religion, folk dance, folk music, art, food and language. Hispanic is the term referred to the relation between modern day Spain, Andorra, Gibraltar and Portugal and its pre-Roman people.
Even the native Pre-Hispanic Philippines culture has influences from India, Malaysia and Indonesia. It is because of these cultural influences that Philippine mythology has been influenced by Buddhism and Hinduism as well.
Before Second World War, Philippines was a US colony from 1898. It is for this reason that American influences can be seen in the usage of English language and contemporary pop culture namely basketball, music, fast food and movies.
Philippines Culture is also influenced by the Chinese and Japanese. Dating back to as long as pre-colonial times Japanese and Chinese have been settled in Philippines ever since. You can find their influence in the popular local noodles known as Mami. These noodles are very popular amongst the locals as well the tourists. The Japanese influence can be seen in Mahjong Japanese Mochi.
Lastly, in the southern island of Philippines, Mindanao, mostly you will find Muslims, follower of Islam. Muslims follow their own traditions and customs. The martial arts such as Sikaran and Kali emerged from this Island of Philippines.
Philippines culture is rich in art and music. Philippines culture is influenced by a number of different cultures from all around the world and you will find many customs and traditions of Philippines which are a blended mixture of different cultures.
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