GEE 106: Philippine Popular Culture

Topic: Chapter 1: Definition of Popular Culture and other Definition of Popular Culture
Prepared by: Dhanelie M. Flores BSED 2- Social Studies
Date:
Content: Definition of Popular Culture

Popular culture (or "pop culture") refers in general to the traditions and material culture of a particular
society. In the modern West, pop culture refers to cultural products such as music, art, literature, fashion,
dance, film, cyberculture, television, and radio that are consumed by the majority of a society's population.
Popular culture is those types of media that have mass accessibility and appeal.
The term "popular culture" was coined in the mid-19th century, and it referred to the cultural traditions
of the people, in contrast to the "official culture" of the state or governing classes. In broad use today, it is
defined in qualitative terms—pop culture is often considered a more superficial or lesser type of artistic
expression.

Popular Culture In Philippines

Popular culture, according to National Artist for literature Bienvenido Lumbera in his book
Revaluation: Essays on Philippine Literature, Theatre and Popular Culture (1984), is highly different from
the folk culture and nationalist culture of the Filipinos. In a nutshell, folk culture is the way of living in a
place in a specific time and portrays the practices of a certain people, and on how they cope to survive with
nature. Nationalist culture is the culture created through colonial resistance with the collective of a people on
a given place and time. These two are different from popular culture which can be traced even in the period
of Hispanization of the Philippines.
According to Lumbera, popular culture in the Philippines was created and used by the Spaniards to the
native Filipinos or Indios via plays and literature to get the heart of the natives and win it.
The most common forms of popular culture are movies, music, television, video games, sports,
entertainment news, fashion, and various forms of technology.
The Rise of Popular Culture
Scholars trace the origins of the rise of popular culture to the creation of the middle class generated by
the Industrial Revolution. People who were configured into working classes and moved into urban
environments far from their traditional farming life began creating their own culture to share with their co-
workers, as a part of separating from their parents and bosses.
The meaning of popular culture then began to merge with that of mass culture, consumer culture, image
culture, media culture, and culture created by manufacturers for mass consumption.

Different Definitions of Popular Culture

In his wildly successful textbook "Cultural Theory and Popular Culture" (now in its 8th edition), British
media specialist John Storey offers six different definitions of popular culture.

1. Popular culture is simply culture that is widely favored or well-liked by many people: it has no
negative connotations.
2. Popular culture is whatever is left after you've identified what "high culture" is: in this definition,
pop culture is considered inferior, and it functions as a marker of status and class.
3. Pop culture can be defined as commercial objects that are produced for mass consumption by non-
discriminating consumers. In this definition, popular culture is a tool used by the elites to suppress or
take advantage of the masses.
4. Popular culture is folk culture, something that arises from the people rather than imposed upon them:
pop culture is authentic (created by the people) as opposed to commercial (thrust upon them by
commercial enterprises).
5. Pop culture is negotiated: partly imposed on by the dominant classes, and partly resisted or changed
by the subordinate classes. Dominants can create culture but the subordinates decide what they keep
or discard.
6. The last definition of pop culture discussed by Storey is that in the postmodern world, in today's
world, the distinction between "authentic" versus "commercial" is blurred. In pop culture today, users
 are free to embrace some manufactured content, alter it for their own use, or reject it entirely and
create their own.
All six of Storey's definitions are still in use, but they seem to change depending on the context. Since
the turn of the 21st century, mass media—the way pop culture is delivered—has changed so dramatically
that scholars are finding it difficult to establish how they function. As recently as 2000, "mass media" meant
only print (newspapers and books), broadcast (televisions and radio), and cinema (movies and
documentaries). Today, it embraces an enormous variety of social media and forms.
To a large degree, popular culture is today something established by niche users. What is "mass
communication" moving forward? Commercial products such as music are considered popular even when
the audience is tiny, in comparison to such pop icons as Britney Spears and Michael Jackson. The presence
of social media means consumers can speak directly to producers—and are producers themselves, turning
the concept of pop culture on its head.
So, in a sense, popular culture has gone back to its simplest meaning: It is what a lot of people like.
• As Brummett explains in Rhetorical Dimensions of Popular Culture, pop culture involves the aspects of
social life most actively involved in by the public. As the ‘culture of the people’, popular culture is
determined by the interactions between people in their everyday activities: styles of dress, the use of slang,
greeting rituals and the foods that people eat are all examples of popular culture. Popular culture is also
informed by the mass media.
There are a number of generally agreed elements comprising popular culture. For example, popular
culture encompasses the most immediate and contemporary aspects of our lives. These aspects are often
subject to rapid change, especially in a highly technological world in which people are brought closer and
closer by omnipresent media. Certain standards and commonly held beliefs are reflected in pop culture.
Because of its commonality, pop culture both reflects and influences people’s everyday life (see eg Petracca
and Sorapure, Common Culture). Furthermore, brands can attain pop iconic status (eg the Nike swoosh or
McDonald’s golden arches). However, iconic brands, as other aspects of popular culture, may rise and fall.
With these fundamental aspects in mind, popular culture may be defined as the products and forms of
expression and identity that are frequently encountered or widely accepted, commonly liked or approved,
and characteristic of a particular society at a given time.
• Ray Browne in his essay ‘Folklore to Populore’ offers a similar definition: “Popular culture consists of the
aspects of attitudes, behaviors, beliefs, customs, and tastes that define the people of any society. Popular
culture is, in the historic use of term, the culture of the people.”
Popular culture allows large heterogeneous masses of people to identify collectively. It serves an
inclusionary role in society as it unites the masses on ideals of acceptable forms of behavior. Along with
forging a sense of identity which binds individuals to the greater society, consuming pop culture items often
enhances an individual’s prestige in their peer group. Further, popular culture, unlike folk or high culture,
provides individuals with a chance to change the prevailing sentiments and norms of behavior, as we shall
see. So popular culture appeals to people because it provides opportunities for both individual happiness and
communal bonding.

Herbert Gans, Popular Culture and High Culture: An Analysis and Evaluation of Taste (New York,
Basic Books, 1975),
American films, popular songs, television dramas are items of use for Gans, commodities designed
to offer immediate satisfactions to a mass audienece and according to him popular culture had value in
that it provided entertainment for people rather than being worthless .
Examples of Popular Culture

Examples of popular culture come from a wide array of genres, including popular music, print, cyber
culture, sports, entertainment, leisure, fads, advertising and television. Sports and television are arguably
two of the most widely consumed examples of popular culture, and they also represent two examples of
popular culture with great staying power.

GEE 106: Philippine Popular Culture

Topic: Chapter 1: Introduction to Philippine Popular Culture
 • History and Evolution of Philippine Popular Culture
Prepared by: Faith B. Francisco BSED 2- Social Studies
Date: January 22, 2024

PHILIPPINE POPULAR CULTURE

History of Popular Culture in the Philippines
"Building a culture has to start with a foundation, and that foundation must necessarily be the culture of
the Filipino people if this could be separated with the encrustations grown on it by colonial rule."
According to Lumbera, popular culture in the Philippines was created and used by the Spaniards to the
native Filipinos or Indios via plays and literature to get the heart of the natives and win it. The colonial
origins of popular culture found in the Philippines can be traced by looking at salient developments in
Philippine literature. The first permanent Spanish settlement began replacing the native culture with a
Christian and European tradition.
The children of the native elite under the tutelage of missionaries became a core group of intelligentsia
called 'ladinos', as they became instrumental "in bringing into the vernacular, literary forms that were to be
vehicles for the "pacification" of the natives". Forms of popular theatre and literature such as "the pasyon,
sinakulo, and korido ensured the acceptance and spread of Christianity, and the komedya and awit did the
same for the monarchy." Popular culture as introduced by the Spanish was "popular" to the extent that it was
a "watering-down of Spanish-European culture for the purpose of winning the general populace over to the
'ideology' of the colonial regime." Popular culture at the time was created by colonial authorities, with the
aid of the local intelligentsia, to promote the interests of the Church and the State.

However, once the native intelligentsia saw the effects of popular culture and knew how to work its way
as propaganda, they soon used the Spanish weapon against them. In the 19th century, through the
Propaganda movement, the native intelligentsia used the same forms of popular culture to "undermine the
power of the abusive friars and rally the populace to put an end to colonial rule" one example is the work of
Marcelo H. del Pilar when he soon used prayers such as the 'Aba, Ginoong Maria' and 'Ama Namin' in a sort
of parody to strike against the abusive Spanish Friars.
The advent of American colonialism brought, the properly so-called, popular culture to the Philippines.
The liberal policy regarding the printing press, soon through radio, television and film, increased the
circulation of of popular culture forms. Not only through these forms but also in new media then, such as
films. Hollywood films had a near-monopoly in the Philippine market especially in the absence of European
movies due to World War I.
Early on, the local intelligentsia has the same apprehensions over mass media as they called it
commercialisation, or vulgarisation of art. According to Lumbera, the local intelligentsia noticed that
"Popular literature as a commodity intended for a mass market was seen to pose a threat to serious artistic
work, because the writers accommodated his art to the demands of the publishers and editors who were more
interested in sales rather than aesthetics." More so, "...popular culture is not created by the populace... rather,
it is culture created either by the ruling elite or by members of the intelligentsia in the employ of that elite,
for the consumption of the populace."; it is "....'packaged' entertainment or art intended for the profit of
rulers, be they colonial administrators or native bureaucrats and businessmen."

Evolution of Popular Culture in the Philippines

1. Arts and Literature
• Architecture
In the Philippines, architecture has gone through so many changes along with time and the influences of
its colonists especially the Spaniards and Americans with their many years of taking over the Philippines.
During the Pre-Spanish period, Philippine architecture was made of bamboo and nipa and seldom were
their houses made of stones. In the Philippines, it is best known as the Bahay-Kubo which even in the
present times, still exist usually resided upon by lowland dwellers in the country.
In the American Commonwealth Period, there was the establishment of a civil government thus the
American mission style architecture which are buildings of commerce in their modern 20th century and
Greek-like building styles.
Today, Contemporary Architecture in the Philippines succumbed to the modern-mundane style which
includes the concrete structure of cities
• Music and Dance
Anglo-American popular music was very popular then in the early twentieth century. The famous
musical genres at the time, the cakewalk, foxtrot and ragtime-which would soon develop as Jazz were
played by Filipino dance bands in shows.
When radio, sheet music, live entertainment and movie themes came, popular music became part of the
mainstream of Philippine society.
In the Japanese Occupation, American entertainment were banned which is why a pro- Filipino and
Japanese virtue was encouraged in the music industry.
In the late 70's, Metro Manila Popular Music Festival a song writing competition boosted the creation of
new pop songs. It was in this time that the Organisasyon ng mga Pilipinong Mang-aawit (OPM), was created
for Filipino popular artists. OPM also means Original Pilipino Music; music composed and performed by
Filipinos, even with its ultimate use of English for the lyrics.
Today, a lot of international popular music is being consumed by many Filipinos especially Hollywood
and Korean-pop music. Thankfully, OPM songs remain to be famous.
Lately, with the application Tiktok, many dances also surfaced being danced by many Filipino youths
shared on social media platforms.
• Painting
It is said that there is no specific tradition when it comes to painting in the Philippines which means that
there is no particular pattern being followed by the artists. Some famous paintings in the Philippines include:
 The Fishermen by Ang Kiukok (1935-2005)
 The Fruit Gatherer of Fernando Amorsolo (1892-1972)
Among others which were excellently made and some with a backstory.
• Theater
The Philippine Theater, just like the arts have evolved through time with the influences of the various
cultures the Philippines has been dawned upon.
Before Colonization, Philippine theater was more on verbal jousts, indigenous rituals, songs, games and
dances to praise gods.
In the Spanish Regime, Spanish people casted off dramas as their instructive tool in influencing and
teaching the Filipinos Christianity. One more significant theater form propagated during the time was the
comedia, or the moro-moro.
During the American Colonization, education, media, and language were introduced with its most
obvious influence, the bodabil (vaudeville) including plays and dramas translated or presented in English
By the 1940s, as the Japanese commenced, all film equipment got confiscated. The bodabil comedia and
zarzuela endured only as entertainment and expression. From after the Japanese Occupation to today,
Philippine theatre has grown to become an incorporation of the various influences of all abovementioned,
mostly performed in English during the time, until it became part of classroom education.
• Literature
Before the Spaniards, records show that Filipinos created epics, poems, songs myths, tales and legends
which must've been imitations from the Indians, elucidating existence through stories about their lives and
the nature, creating brave and patriotic heroes with supernatural powers.
During Spanish Occupation, literary creativity was quietened as Spaniards promoted Christianity. In the
late nineteenth century though, literature came back as poetry and in prose; Florante at Laura of Francisco
Balagtas was born. Filipinos also wrote in Spanish where Spaniards then supported creative writing and
gave prizes.
In the American occupation, a voice of power and authority came. The first Filipino who wrote in
English took 20 years of studying the new language. Later, writers in English began to rise in number but
were paid very poorly. Nevertheless, it boosted when writers were offered prizes by the Commonwealth
Literary Contest.
Filipino Literature has been and until now a mixture of traditional folk-tales, real life experiences and
socio-political histories often promoting Filipino cultural values and struggles of locals.

2. Lifestyle, Fashion & Food

• Lifestyle
 A person's lifestyle or way of life is heavily influenced by the history, culture and the values embedded
in the place he or she is in. Filipinos, as people of one country are expected to share commonalities in terms
of dealing with existence.
With the harsh conditions of the country being prone to typhoons; also with the number of colonization
that transpired, Filipinos were able to develop resiliency and a stronger faith, above all. With those said,
these factors truly affect the way Filipinos have led and are continuing to lead their lives until now.
• Daily Life and Social Customs
Living a Filipino life means giving high regard to the family and by that, it includes extended family
members like grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and relatives.
Catholic families, they also include godparents assigned as the people responsible of a child should the
parents die or be disabled. The people abovementioned are the same people you will see in major life
gatherings and events like baptism and confirmations for Catholics, circumcision for Muslims, marriages,
and other special, religious and national holidays.
Filipino families are also tight-knit. Children don't leave the household easily unlike in other cultures
where children are ought to leave by the age of 18. Usually, children leave their parents' house the moment
they decide to marry but there are also instances where children do not leave at all and stay with their
parents despite having a family of their own. Most of these who do not leave the house are also making
themselves responsible of taking care of their parents as they grow old.
Education as well is revered by Filipinos. Usually, the first wish among parents for their children is to
have them finish their studies. They even celebrate graduations with a feast of food, inviting family and
friends to come and join the celebration. Academic achievement other than work is something that one
would take pride over in the Philippines.
Filipinos have the thing they call bayanihan which means helping one another or extending help to those
in dire need especially in times of disaster and calamity. Filipinos value respect to the elders and you can
often hear them say po or opo as honorifics to those who are older.
Nowadays, with the impact of digital technology, the Internet of Things and globalization, Filipino
lifestyle also changed enormously. Things and machines have become more advanced which made work
easier. Even the means of transportation and home appliances advanced.
In socializing, social media has become a major platform in which people can share and post things.
Most of the youth dedicate a lot of their time surfing the net for entertainment like scrolling on their social
media accounts, watching foreign dramas and youtube videos.
• Foods
Fililipinos call it handaan or having a feast as their way of celebrating achievements and special
occasions. Other than lechon, you can expect lechon manok (roasted chicken), pancit (noodle dish), lumpia
(rolls), spaghetti, mango float, fruit salad and other sweets with the variety of viands.
When it comes to drinks in these occasions, there always are soft and hard drinks. More often than not,
the ones to drink the hard drinks are the male visitors or family members. Females in the Philippines are
often not expected to drink alcohol.
Filipinos also like street foods very much. Street foods include kwek-kwek (boiled egg dipped in orange
batter), fish balls, tempura (mixed sea food, meat and vegetables), siomai (steamed Chinese dumplings),
sweet corn, turon (banana rolled in thin layer of pastry), banana que (fried banana coated with sugar), isaw
(chicken intestines) and barbecue which can be paired with buko juice (coconut juice with milk), lemonade
and gulaman (drink with jelly). Filipinos especially students enjoy eating these a lot outside while chit-
chatting with friends and others.
When it comes to snacks and sweets, Filipinos also have a lot to offer. There are foods refered to as
kakanin or food made out of glutinous rice widely known as rice cakes. Kakanin includes puto (steamed rice
cake), biko (coconut milk and malagkit rice), sapinsapin (layered glutinous rice), suman (rolled rice cake),
kutsinta (ground rice and sugar), bibingka (baked rice cake) and palitaw (ground sticky rice mixed with
sugar powder and milk). All of these are very popular around the country and people search for these every
buwan ng wika; a whole-month celebration for t the Filipino language.

• Fashion
 Fashion speaks a lot about someone; it's become a way of expressing the self without having to say
something and clothing, being a universal culture would mean that wherever you go, there will always be
certain ways of dressing in places according to trend, culture and other influences. Such a fact would not
exclude the Philippines of which fashion changed over time.
The way Filipinos dress through time is incontestably influenced by the colonizations it has undergone,
reflecting in it the rich history of the country but before these extensive occupations, Filipinos dressed
according to social ststuses.
In Central Philippines, the Tagalog men wore baro, while women put on baro at saya made of silk in
corresponding colors. The textile for baro't saya showed social status.
Women in the upper class wore silk, while the lower class used white bark fibers. Colors of the clothes
also indicated social status and tattoos were worn signifying power and strength in warriors, beauty, power
and wealth for women.
Filipinos travelled and lived in Europe and the US, Western influences became more prominent. Women
started wearing loose dresses and knee-length skirt while men wore suit and coat. Floral dresses replaced
Traje de Mestiza in 1930s. While the elders still used it daily, the younger generation saw it only as a formal
dress for special events and occasions
During the Second World War, the Japanese occupied factories, which resulted in shortage of textiles.
Tailoring shops, boutiques and dressmakers closed. Trade and the economy got affected, people lived
through rations and clothes became simpler. Men abandoned coat and "Americana." Women didn't wear
terno resulting to its death as stores only sold one-colored dark dresses.
With the fame of British pop culture, Philippine fashion changed in 1960s. Mod became an instant hit.
Hemlines got shorter, while the clothes became looser. Mini skirt and mini dresses became popular for
women. With the invention of hairspray, hairstyle got bigger and bolder. In the late 1960s to 1970s, Filipinos
had the hippie culture.
Disco culture arose. Bell bottoms stayed a fashion basic paired with polos in bright colors. Women wore
short dresses. The sloppy vibe of the era led to the fame of casual look. Bakya, a footwear, became famous
and the denim-shirt ensemble. Wearing neo-colored clothes with miniskirts was a huge trend. Curls were in,
sporty look got popular.
The 1990s was all about loose fashion, an oversized shirts and pants with the rock music influence.
Dark, leather and overly sized clothes was the trend. Denim became famous including the long hair or
chachupoy, a straight hairstyle with middle parting at the center.
The 21st century was a combination of different styles from different eras, but the is characterized by
the rise of spaghetti strap clothes. Women wore innerwear as outerwear. Men's fashion remained the same,
with cargo pants and oversized shirts still famous.

3. Media
• Media
One of the most important tool for information. It helps to reached out with the people for different
purposes; entertainment, news, lifestyle and others. It is one of the reasons why many Filipinos were up-to-
date on the trends not just in the Philippine set up but also around the world.
In the field of films, the first films shown in the Philippines were short features called cinematrografo
(Fernandez, 1981). Jose Rizal's life was the first feature film produced in the country but Jose Nepomuceno's
"Dalagang Bukid" was the first fulllength feature film in 1919.
Musser produced Aswang" in 1932 which became the first talking picture in the country. Dolphy, Vilma
Santos and Nora Aunor were the superstars which are always talked because of their exemplary
performances.
While on radio, the longest-running shows were "Ilaw ng Tahanan" and "Gulong ng Palad," recently
translated to television, both built on the fool proof formula of cascades of tears and flocks of martyred
women (Fernandez 1981).

GEE 106: Philippine Popular Culture

Topic: Chapter 1:Philippine Culture: What Makes the Filipinos Different from the Rest of the World
• Filipino Culture
Prepared by: Rowelyn Francisco BSED 2- Social Studies
Date:

Philippine Culture: What Makes the Filipinos Different from the Rest of the World

The Philippines is a culture in which East meets West. The Filipino people have a distinct Asian
background, with a strong Western tradition. The modern Filipino culture developed through influence from
Chinese traders, Spanish conquistadors, and American rulers. Filipino people tend to be very hospitable,
especially to Western visitors. Because of their strong ties to Spanish culture, Filipinos are emotional and
passionate about life in a way that seems more Latin than Asian. This is easily seen in the works of
comporary artists such as Rody Herrera in his painting Unahan Sa Duluhan.
The family is the basic and most important aspect of Filipino culture. Divorce is prohibited and
annulments are rare. The family is the safety net for indivuduals, especially older people, during difficult
economic times. Children will often stay with their parents into adulthood, only leaving when they get
married. Political and business ties are often influenced by family relationships.
Two traits that many foreign visitors often have a difficult time understanding are Pakikisama and Utang
na Loob. Pakikisama roughly means "getting along" and requires individuals overlook slight improprieties
or indiscretions for the sake of preserving peace within the family, personal, or business relationship. Utang
na Loob refers to the custom of paying back one favor with another. These traits emphasize the importance
that Filipino people place on maintaining pleasant interpersonal relationships and puting the needs of the
group ahead of the individual.
More than 80% of the population of the Philippines is Roman Catholic. Fiestas in honor of the patron
saint of a town are quite common. Criticism of the Catholic church is not taken lightly - and should be
avoided.
In the Philippines, people greet each other with a handshake. A smile or raised eyebrows can mean
"Hello" or "Yes". Someone can be summoned with a downward wave of the hand.

Filipino Culture:
The Filipino culture has varied influences from previous colonizations, deriving mainly from the culture
of Spain and America. You can easily notice it from the architecture to the cultural beliefs in the Philippines.
Despite all of these foreign influences, the old Asian Filipino culture has been retained and are clearly seen
in their way of life, cultural beliefs in the Philippines, Filipino customs and traditions. Wherever you go, the
Filipino culture and values are very evident and have largely been appreciated and even applauded in many
parts of the world.
Filipino culture is rich and diverse, influenced by a blend of indigenous. Family plays a central role, and
hospitality is highly valued. Festivals, like Sinulog and Ati-Atihan, showcase vibrant celebrations. Filipino
cuisine, with dishes like adobo and sinigang, reflects a mix of flavors. “Bayanihan”, the spirit of communal
unity, is deeply ingrained. The Philippies also has a strong tradition of music, dance and art, contributing to
unique cultural identity.
Filipinos are very religious in all corners of a Filipino house, you can find brazen images of crosses and
other religious paraphernalia. It is a common Filipino custom to go church every Sunday, or sometimes even
twice or three times a week
Filipinos are very respectful from the moment they are born into this world, they are already taught how
to be respectful by using these simple catchphrases—po and opo, words that end sentences when addressing
elders. They have a culture of pagmamano, which is where they raise the backs of the hands of their elders
to their foreheads as a sign of respect. When it comes to what not to say in the Phillippines you should
definitely consider weather your words are respectful to the Filipino people, especially since they have a
deep language history.

GEE 106- Philippine Popular Culture

Topic/s: Filipino Values
Music, Arts, and Literature
Prepared by: Irene B. Escovidal BSED Social Studies 2
Date:
FILIPINO VALUES
The Filipino value system or Filipino values refers to the set of values that a majority of the Filipino
have historically held important in their lives. This Philippine values system includes their own unique
assemblage of consistent ideologies, moral codes, ethical practices, etiquette and cultural and personal
values that are promoted by their society.
Positive or Acceptable Cultural Values and Practices
1. “Balikatan” System. When an individual is confronted with a problem or difficulty, everybody
1.

shares the burden of helping the person who is in need of assistance.

2. “Bayanihan” System. A certain task is effectively and easily completed if everybody shares his
time, effort and money to expedite the completion of a task.

3. “Pakikisama” of Conformity. This is a positive way of yielding to the group‘s unanimous or

majority’s decision so as to complete a task. Without it, there would be disunity in the group.

4. “Pakikiramay”. This is a sympathetic attitude to another person and it is emphasized by the

statement ―”di ka nag-iisa”.
5. Close family ties. Pagpapahalaga sa pamilya is the value that considers the interest of the family
more important than personal interest. Filipinos are willing to sacrifice prestige and even happiness for the
sake of the family.
6. “Utang na Loob” or the sense of gratitude. One aspect of this is in gift-giving, that is, when a gift
is given, it is “utang na loob” of the recipient. Another aspect of “utang na loob” that cannot be repaid in
kind and remain outstanding throughout life.
7. Desire for Socio-Economic Improvement. Every Filipino family wants to succeed and for the
children to be successful in their aspirations. Parents feel that education can bring success to their children as
if it is the only legacy, they can give to them.
8. Hospitality value. This value is done by people welcoming visitors with warmth and enthusiasm at
home, or by inviting them to visit their homes or wherever circumstances warrant. Hospitality can promote
goodwill and cooperation.
9. Fiesta celebration. Celebration can serve very important purposes. It strengthens family loyalty and
unity; it serves to acquire new friends and allies; may heal individual‘s animosity and misunderstanding, etc.

Negative or Unacceptable Cultural Values and Practices

1. Indolence. Many Filipinos are lazy, lacking initiative and ambition. Many still subsist on asking
alms, or waiting or relief or “awa”. Their attitude is like the legendary “Juan Tamad”.
2. The “Ningas Cogon” attitude. This is an attitude with great interest and enthusiasm in the beginning
but eventually dies at the end.

3. “Mañana Habit”. This is the tomorrow-attitude or procrastination attitude. People set aside their
work for tomorrow what they can really do today.
4. “Bahala-na” attitude. This is a kind of fatalism in which the person leaves everything to fate. He
lets fate control his destiny and decides his success. This term comes from “Bathala na” which means that
God will take care of everything.
 5. Indulging in Gambling. This is one favorite pastime of Filipinos which has more negative effects
than positive ones. It brings evil to society because of the negative effects they bring especially to the young
adults.
6.“Hiya” Complex. This is an uncomfortable feeling of being found in an unacceptable position or
uncomfortable feeling of doing something not socially acceptable, accompanied by a feeling of shame or
embarrassment.
7. Amor Propio (Loving oneself). This is associated closely with “hiya”. It is a Spanish term meaning
self-love, or self-esteem, the fear of losing social acceptance.
8. “Palakasan” scheme. Obtaining a job, getting a promotion, transfer, and other special privileges and
favors are often done by “palakasan”.
9. Use of euphemistic expression. Euphemistic expression is stating an unpleasant opinion, truth or
request as pleasantly as possible to please another person as not to directly hurt his ego. It is sometimes
called “white lies”.
10. The “suerte”, “tadhana”, “malas” and “buenas” forms of fatalism. These are beliefs in fate,
predestination, in horoscope and hula (fortune telling).
11. The Gaya-Gaya practice. Generally, imitation is not bad because it is one form of learning
especially if there is a good model to imitate. On the other hand, “gaya-gaya” has negative value if it
indicates lack of creativity.
12. Karma. Many Filipinos believe in karma, the Indian word which means “the law of nature”. The
saying “for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction” is referred to karma.

MUSIC, ARTS, AND LITERATURE

Music
It is the art of combining and organizing sounds along with other elements in time to create a
composition. It incorporates elements of rhythm, melody, harmony, and color to create a unique piece.
Music includes other elements like the pitch, which controls the melody and harmony, and the dynamics that
affect its texture. It’s one of humanity’s cultural aspects, usually used by humans to express emotions,
statuses, events, and stories. Music is performed using various musical instruments that can be incorporated
with multiple vocal techniques.
Early Filipino music is popular for disco music. The groups who popularized this collective genre were
more known by the name Manila Sound during the mid to late 1970s. Songs like “Awitin Mo At Isasayaw
Ko,” and “Magsayawan” by VST & Company; “Sumayaw, Sumunod,” and “Dance With Me” by The
Boyfriends; and “Annie Batungbakal,” and “Bongga Ka Day” by The Hotdogs became the national anthem
on the dancefloor.
Manila sound eventually faded then, came in artists who introduced a new kind of sentiment by belting
out ballads. These would include Rey Valera, Freddie Aguilar, and Rico J. Puno to name a few. And may we
not forget jukebox divas Imelda Papin, Claire de la Fuente, and Eva Eugenio.
The 80s and 90s ushered in the golden era for the Philippines’ music industry. Trademark songs of this
era included “On The Wings of Love” by Regine Velasquez, “Ikaw” by Sharon Cuneta, “Be My Lady" by
Martin Nievera, and “Sa’yo Lamang” by Ogie Alcasid.
Aside from these solo artists, bands became popular during this period as well. Hits like “Panalangin”
by APO Hiking Society, “Nosi Ba Lasi” by folk rock band Sampaguita, “Katawan” by sing-and-dance boy
group Hagibis were some of the most requested songs on the radio that time.
Eraserheads and Rivermaya created their own cult following with signature hits like “Ang Huling El
Bimbo” and “Kisapmata,” respectively. Don’t forget Hale with “The Day You Said Goodnight” and Cueshe
with “Stay” that ushered in the new millennium.
Pinoy hip hop began thriving too. Andrew E’s iconic “Banyo Queen,” and “Humanap Ka Nang Pangit”
were playful songs that are now considered classics.
 Through time, original Pilipino music has already evolved and adapted to with the current times - from
the classic ballads, to band music, hip hop, and more.
We also gain new artists from singing competitions and reality shows. From these came Star in A
Million champion Erik Santos, Pinoy Dream Academy titleholder Yeng Constantino, and The Voice alum
Morissette Amon, to name a few.
If we had Hale and Cueshe before, fresh bands have captured the sentiments of Filipinos today. Number
one on the list is indie folk band Ben&Ben with their top songs “Kathang Isip," “Maybe The Night," and
“Pagtingin.” We also have indie rock group December Avenue who popularized sentimental songs like “Sa
Ngalan Ng Pag-Ibig," and “Huling Sandali, "and “Kung Di Rin Lang Ikaw," the last being a collaboration
with Moira Dela Torre.
IV Of Spades, of course, isn’t exempted. Because of their retro vibe and with their hit songs “Hey,
Barbara” and “Mundo”, they rose to the charts in a snap. Who could forget Munimuni with their hit “Sa
Hindi Pag-Alala,” and “Tahanan," and Up Dharma Down with “Oo,” and “Tadhana.”
New OPM also have a variety of artists with their signature singing style. There’s Moira dela Torre in
her angelic “Malaya” lullaby for the movie “Camp Sawi.” There’s I Belong To The Zoo with their tearjerker
“Sana.” Quest has his ever-famous “Walang Hanggan” that talks about a recent break-up.
The local rap scene is also alive. Gloc9’s songs are social commentaries of the current Filipino situation.
These include “Upuan," “Sirena," “Hari Ng Tondo," and “Walang Natira.” On the other hand, Shantidope
with “Nadarang," “Shanti Dope," “Materyal," and “Mau” are romantic songs dressed in rap and hiphop
beats.
With this timeline, we can confirm that OPM is truly versatile. It has evolved through time and has
proven itself adaptable to the ever-changing sentiments of the Filipinos. Listen to these Filipino originals
and see for yourself which song speaks to you the most.
Arts
Art is a visual object or experience consciously created through an expression of skill or imagination.
The term art encompasses diverse media such as painting, sculpture, printmaking, drawing, decorative
arts, photography, and installation.
The Philippines is a melting pot of cultures, each with their own unique art forms such as intricate
weavings to pottery, tattoos, and bamboo crafts, to music, dance, textile art, painting and wood carving.
Weaving,is an indigenous art form that has been a part of Filipino culture for centuries. Ilocos region,
known for its abel weaving. The abel fabric is so strong and durable, it can last for
generations. Yakan weavers of Basilan create vibrant, geometric textiles that are a feast for the
eyes. T'boli people of South Cotabato, who are famous for their t'nalak weaving. The t'nalak fabric is
made from abaca fibers and dyed with natural colors.
Pottery is one of the indigenous art forms in the Philippines that has been around for a long time. Vigan
is famous for making the burnay jars.These large, earthenware jars are created using a foot-powered wheel
and a unique process of firing in underground pits. The town of San Juan is famous for its red clay pottery,
known locally as damili. Damili pottery ranges from cooking pots and water containers to toys and
figurines, showing the versatility of this art form.
The indigenous tattoo art in the Philippines is one applied on skin. One tribe well-known for its
tattooing traditions is the Butbut tribe of Kalinga, in the northern part of the Philippines. Here, they practice
a technique known as batok. Batok tattoos are applied using a thorn and a bamboo stick. The last living
traditional tattoo artist from the Butbut tribe is Apo Whang Od. At over 100 years old, she's a living legend
and has devoted her life to preserving this indigenous art form in the Philippines.
Some of the most captivating dances in the Philippines are steeped in indigenous tradition. Take the
'Tinikling', for example. It's a dance that mimics the movements of the 'tikling' bird as it hops between grass
stems and bamboo traps. Another is the 'Bangka' dance which is a communal dance that tells the story of
daily life in a fishing village. The dancers move in unison, their bodies swaying to the rhythm of the waves.
“Spolarium” by Juan Luna, Fernando Amorsolo’s “Planting Rice”, Vicente Manansala’s “Madonna of
the Slums”, “First Mass at Limasawa” by Carlos Modesto “Botong” Villaluz Francisco’s are notable
examples in the field of painting.
In sculpture, Guillermo Tolentino’s “UP Oblation” and “Rizal Monument”, Napoleon Abueve, the
Father of Philippine scupture, behind the “Sandugo Monument” in Tagbilaran, Bohol and memorial cross
reliefs at Dambana ng Kagitingan in Mt. Samat, Bataan
Literature
Literature, a body of written works. The name has traditionally been applied to those imaginative
works of poetry and prose distinguished by the intentions of their authors and the
perceived aesthetic excellence of their execution.
Contemporary Philippine literature reflects a diverse group of works which are mostly grounded on
traditional folktales, socio-political histories, and real-life experiences. Such books have since promoted
Filipino cultural values, told daily struggles of locals, and have instilled a remarkable lesson.
Noli Me Tángere and El Filibusterismo by Dr. José Rizal, Mga Ibong Mandaragit by Amado V.
Hernandez, Po-on A Novel by F. Sionil Jose, Dekada ’70 by Lualhati Bautista, ABNKKBSNPLAko?! by
Bob Ong, Florante and Laura by Francisco Balagtas and Ibong Adarna written by Jose Dela Cruz or Huseng
Sisiw are the most famous books in the Philippines.
As an archipelago, the Philippines is home to several ethnic tales and legends passed on from generation
to generation. These stories and legends have since then become a part of our tradition and culture because it
is believed to be the origin of various things. 1. Ang Alamat ni Daragang Magayon, The Legend of the
Piña, (The Legend of Spider), The Legend of Banana, and The Legend of Sampaguita.

GEE 106- Philippine Popular Culture

Topic/s: Philippine Folk Arts
Clothing
Prepared by: Eunice Francisco BSED Social Studies 2
Date:
PHILIPPINE FOLK ARTS
Do you know what folk art means?
The term “folk art” refers to art made by people who have no art instruction, and often little formal
education. Art is generally considered to be “folk art” when it is the work of untrained artists working in
rural areas. It is the skilled but simple expression of people who care more about plain truths
than fashionable trends and historic styles.

What are folk arts?

It could be paintings, carvings, furniture, textiles, metal works, masks, artifacts, and all decorative arts
made by people using traditional techniques handed down to them through the generations. Every country
and community have its own folk art. In the Philippines, we have produced several folk arts done by great
forefathers of ethnic groups. Their artwork are preserved and reproduced by the present generation in
different localities. Philippine Folk Arts Philippines has more than 80 small ethnic tribes who live in
different parts of the country. Each has its own folk art that is now part of our cultural heritage. Each
regional so produces different unique products and crafts. Some beautiful crafts or products made by our
forefathers and ethnic groups are preserved and reproduced. The bronze earring if Isneg, bronze pendant of
Manobo, leglet of Tiruray, and shield of Bagobo ares ome unique creations and works of art of people from
different ethnic groups. Our very own folk arts as part of our cultural heritage help us to have our own
national identity and national unity as well. We already had our own art even before the coming of the
Spaniards like weaving, pottery, and carving. These were handed down from one generation to the next by
our folk artist. Philippine folk arts include paintings, carving, furniture, textiles, and decorative arts. These
are mostly done by ethnic groups in different parts of the country.
To create a work of art, folk artists use different materials. These materials are called medium. Some of
the media that artists use in art creation are crayon, colored marker, clay, and other indigenous materials. In
sculpting, the artist may use different media such as wood, soap, marbles, clay, and many more. Folk
artist consider the elements of design such as: Line, color, texture, value, space, shape, and form in planning
their act creation.
They also combine visual elements by using principle of designs. It is a guide for
planning artworks that expresses ideas or feelings. Principles of design include; Balance, rhythm,
proportion, emphasis, unity, harmony, and variety.
The traditional folk arts in the Philippines according to the different categories of art.
A. FOLK ARCHITECTURE
These are simple structures built of local materials and available tools to provide shelter for its
inhabitants.
1. Bahay Kubo/Nipa Hut
2. Bale or Ifugao House
3. Ivatan House in Batanes
4. Torogabs or Marano’s House
5. Badjao stilt Houses and Houseboats
B. MARITIME TRANSPORTS
These are marine vessels made for the transport of goods and people living by sea and other waterways
in the surrounding regions.
1. Wooden Banca
2. Vinta
C. WEAVING, TEXTILE MAKING, AND FABRIC ART
Early Filipinos weaved using fibers from abaca, cotton, pineapple and, bark. Before the final garment or
fabric is produced, the fibers were first knotted, boiled, dyed, and dried and weaved using hands and a
wooden platform.
1. Pina fabric
2. T’nalak woven cloth
3. Tingkep baskets
4. Hinabol
5. Yakan weaved cloth
6. The Tapis of the Kalinga Tribe
D. CARVING
Paete in Laguna, the woodcarving capital of the Philippines. Wood is the common material that is
widely used in the country.
E. PERFORMING ART
These may be folk dances and a music which are developed by an individual or groups of people that
reflect their traditions and culture.
F. LITERATURE
It refers to the traditional oral literature of various ethnic groups of the country. It includes the story of
“Malakas at Maganda” and epics such as “Hushud ni Aliguyon”, “Darangan”, and the likes.
G. GRAPHIC AND PLASTIC ARTS
Graphic arts are mainly two=dimensional (2D), like sketching, painting, photography, and, calligraphy.
Plastic arts include sculpture or ceramics which have three dimensions (3D).
H. POTTERY
Native Filipinos created pottery since 3500 years ago. These potteries serve as a secondary burial jars to
hold the deceased. Some of these were decorated with anthropomorphic designs.
1. Manunggul Jar
2. Maitum Anthropomorphic Potteries
OTHER FOLK ARTS
Taka of Paete
These takas are sold side by side with woodcarvings in shops in this town known for its fine
woodcarvers and visual artists.
HISTORY OF TAKA MAKING
The exact history of taka-making in Paete is difficult to trace. Old folks claim that Mexican friars
introduced taka-making to the pueblo of Paete some centuries ago as a cottage industry for the female
population while the males worked on woodcarving. This perhaps explains why the taka of Paete is linked
with the Mexican piñata. While the piñata is decorated with tear up colored paper, the taka of Paete is
individually hand-painted with the happiest and vibrant colors and embellished with floral and fancy
designs. The art of taka-making begins with the process by hand carving hardwood sculptures that becomes
the takaans or the actual mold where layers upon layers of paper are glued, sundried before the papier-mâché
figures are hand-painted.
Anting-anting in quaipo
SARI-SARING ANTING-ANTING.
The Evangelista Street side of Quiapo Church is teeming with vendors of amulets and talismans that
allegedly have magical and supernatural powers. However, vendors are vague about their powers, saying
only that they are harbingers of success and provide protection to the bearer against bodily harm, illness, evil
spirits, and witchcraft.
ANTING-ANTING. Locally referred to as anting-anting, they come in various forms. Professor Nenita
Pambid explains that the anting-anting is an amulet, inscribed or engraved on a certain object. It could be an
oracion or prayer written on a piece of paper, folded and kept in the wallet, or sewn in a small cloth pouch,
or worn pinned on clothing.
MEDALLIONS. The Tagalog-English Dictionary by Jose Garcia Panganiban suggests that the word
anting-anting was derived from the Malaysian anting, which means dangling, and in Javanese, anting-anting
means ear pendants.
Filipino Handicrafts under the Bridge in Quiapo
ILALIM NG TULAY. Honey-combed under this steel and concrete bridge are stores filled from floor to
ceiling with local crafts made from indigenous materials. These handicrafts were sourced from various tribal
and cultural communities throughout the country.
TRADITIONAL HANDICRAFTS. Our country has a long tradition of producing handicrafts made
from natural materials. Blessed with rich natural resources, people from the different cultural communities
discovered how to fashion useful and beautiful things out of wood, bamboo, rattan, abaca, coconut shells,
capiz, shells, and object abundant in nature.
Skills in basket weaving, wood carving, shells craft, and the technology in using different hand tools to
create local crafts were developed and passed on to different generations.
Quiapo Golden Mosque
ISLAMIC ARCHITECTURE. One of the outstanding influences of Islam was in architecture. The
Alhambra in Spain, Hagia Sofia in Turkey, and the Taj Mahal in India, are some of the few finest
architectural wonders of the world. In the Philippines, mosque are built following the classic Muslim lines;
externally, a onion-shaped dome topped by a crescent and the minaret, internally, the prayer-niche that
marks the direction of Mecca towards which all Muslims turn in prayer.
MOSQUE DEL GLOBO DEL ORO. In the Muslim Town of Quiapo, the Mosque del Globo del Oro
with its dome, painted in gold and vibrant geometric designs is the largest mosque in Manila. This
architectural landmark was built in 1976, under the direction of then first lady Imelda Marcos. It is said that
the mosque was built to impress visiting Libyan President Muammar Khadafya. However, for some reason,
Khadafy’s state visit to Manila was cancelled.
The mosque’s spacious floor area are divided by low columns supporting the pointed arches. The wide
arched-windows allow air to circulate freely around the mosques. The natural light that fills the soft yellow
walls and gleaming marble floors provides a mellow atmosphere suitable for prayer.

Folk clothing in the Philippines.

The culture of the Philippines is rich and diverse. Today, we’ll talk about the traditional clothing of the
Philippines and, in particular, about each garment separately. Let’s find out what did the Filipinos wear in
the past and which folk garments they prefer today. Also, we’ll touch upon such topics as the traditional
attire of Filipino Muslims, local tribal outfits, and other interesting folk clothes.
Main Filipino folk garments
Baro’t Saya - This is the traditional clothing of the Filipino, one of the unique feminine and simply
beautiful national costumes in Asia. This dress can be seen only in the Philippines. The baro’t saya is
considered to be a “filipiniana” – product of Filipino culture.
Barong Tagalog - The barong tagalog (or simply barong, from the word “baro”) is an embroidered formal
garment of the Philippines. It is a male shirt, basically.
Kimona - A translucent, often embroidered, women’s blouse with extended sleeves. It is usually worn over
an inner garment.
Maria Clara dress - Maria Clara’s dress was named after a mestiza heroine, a woman from one of the
novels of popular Filipino author Dr. Jose Rizal. Its origin was the national costume of Filipino women,
which is baro’t (shirt) saya (skirt).
Mestiza dress - It was made popular by the former First lady of the Philippines Imelda Marcos. Some
people even called it “Imelda dress” or “terno”. The Mestiza dress is known for its elegance and butterfly
sleeves. It is usually worn for formal occasions.
Terno - The Filipino terno alludes to the matching of blouse and skirt, joined at the waist to form a one-
piece creation, with both bodice and skirt made of the same material.
Patadyong dress - Like the malong, the patadyong has a variety of uses. Primarily, women used it as a
tucked-in skirt, topped by a kimona (thin cotton blouse). Women in the countryside or rural areas wear the
patadyong as a sort of kerchief, shawl, or even to shade or cover themselves from prying eyes.
 Tribal folk garments in the Philippines
T’boli clothing
They are, basically, a hill tribe, preferring the mountainous area of Allah Valley. Their culture is rich in
literature, art, and music. Their brass works and tinalak/t’nalak (cloth woven from dyed abacca fiber, with
geometric patterns said to be from the dreams of the weavers) are a constant source of pride for people of
Mindanao.
Igorot clothing
One of the native Filipino tribes (from the northern Philippines) wear this costume for their daily
activities. More accessories are used for special occasions.
Dress of women of Ifugao
The females of this tribe wear a wrap-around skirt called the “ampuyou” or “tolge”. The ordinary tapis
consists of a blue cloth with narrow white horizontal stripes and two broken lines of red triangles and is
worn just above the knee. This skirt is for working in the rice paddies but is not in fashion at present.

Other Filipino folk garments

Muslim attire
This attire is worn by the Muslims who live in the southern part of the Philippines. As you can see from
the costume, it shows the mix of Arab, Malaysian, and Chinese. The batik design is common and silk cloth
is also used with golden threads. Elaborate umbrella makes a nice fashion statement, usually used by a
Muslim princess.
Malong of Muslim
The Sablay (official academic costume of the University of the Philippines Diliman) is inspired by the
malong of Muslim Mindanao. It has the colors of the University: maroon and green, as well as yellow-gold
which stands for the high standards of values and excellence.

GEE 106- Philippine Popular Culture

Topic/s: Culture and Traditions of Philippines: Celebrations
Media, Popular Culture, and their Relationship
Prepared by: Ronnlyn Joy Articulo BSED Social Studies 2
Date:

Culture and Traditions of Philippines: Celebrations

The Philippines is s country known for its vibrant culture and rich traditions. One of the best ways to
experience the essence of Filipino culture is by participating in the numerous festival events held throughout
the year. These festivals showcase the country’s diverse heritage, colorful traditions, and strong sense of
community. From religious processions to street parades, the festival events in the Philippines offer a unique
and immersive experience for both local and tourists.
Spanish colonization of the Philippines has left its mark in the form of many of its customs and
traditions. A large number of festivities are religious, such as Christmas or Holy week, which are celebrated
intensely. On the different islands their own patrons and saints are preserved and honored. This is the case of
Santo Niňo, one of the famous and protagonist of some of the Philippines most popular parties. If the
Filipino celebrations are characterized by anything,, it is their colorful atmosphere, happiness, good
atmosphere and elaborate body painting and mask wearing.
Why are celebrations important for the Filipinos?
Each holiday serves to strengthen pride of their own histories and cultures. As people continue these
celebrations, they are reminded of who they are, where they came from, and their society’s beliefs and
values. Along with this, cultural awareness is also promoted.
What are the famous celebration events in the Philippines?
1. Sinulog Festival: Honoring the Santo Niňo
The Sinulog Festival, held annually on the third Sunday of January in Cebu City, is one of the most
celebrated religious and cultural events in the Philippines. The festival pays homage to the Santo Niňo, the
child of Jesus, and the commemorates the Filipino people’s conversion to Christianity. The highlight of the
festival is the grand street parade, where participants in vibrant costumes dance to the rhythm of drums and
trumpets. The Sinulog Festival is a visual sectacle that showcases the devotion and unity of the Filipino
people.
2. Panagbenga Festival: Blooming of Flowers
Dubbed as the “Flower Festival”, the Panagbenga Festival is held at Baguio City, the summer capital of the
Philippines. Taking place in February, the festival celebrates the blooming of flowers and the abundance of
nature. Colorful floats adorned with flowers parade through the streets, accompanied by street dancers in
traditional attire. The Panagbenga Festival is a feast for the senses and a testament to the beauty of nature.
3. Kadayawan Festival: Abundance and Thanksgiving
The KAdayawan Festival is an annual event held in Davao City, known as the “ Fruit Basket of the
Philippines”. celebrated every August, the festival is a grand showcase of the region’s rich agricultural
harvest and cultural heritage. The streets come alive with street dancing competitions, floral floats, and
trade fairs. The Kadayawan Festival is a celebration of abundance and thanksgiving, highlighting the
bountiful blessings bestowed upon the land.
4. Pahiyas Festival: A Colorful Harvest Celebration
In the province of Quezon, the Pahiyas Festival is held every May to celebrate the bountiful harvest season.
The festival is characterized by vibrant decorations made from rice, fruits, vegetables, and other agricultural
products. Houses are adorned with colorful rice grains, kiping (rice wafers),and various agricultural produce,
creating a pictureque scene. The Pahiyas Festival is a visual feast and a way for the locals to express
gratitude for the blessing of the nature.
5. Ati- Atihan Festival: Mother of All Philippine Festivals
The Ati- Atihan Festival, dubbed as the “Mother of All Festivals”, is held at Kalibo, Aklan, during third
week of January. The festival is a fusion of religious devotion and cultural merriment. Participants paint
their faces with black soot and wear traditional Visayan attire, imittaing the native Aeta people. The streets
transform into a vibrant sea of revelers, dancing and chanting to the beat of drums. The Ati-Atihan Festival
is a trie testament to the Filipino spirit of camaraderie and festivity.
6. Moriones Festival
this extravagant festival takes place on the island of Marinduque during Easter Holy Week, usually April.
Participants dress in Roman costumes and reenact the story of the conversion of the Centurion Longuinus,
who pierced the side of Jesus with his spear before being beheaded.
7. Christmas
The predominantly Catholic Philippines has the longest Christmas season in the world, which runs from
mid-December through to the first week of January. Festivals start with a series of Midnight Masses known
as Simbang Gabi, leading up to a Christmas Eve Feast at midnight followed by Christmas Day. All big
family celebrations, it is a time for eating, drinking, and gift giving. There are numerous pageants, caroling
and decorations made of traditional star shaped bamboo lanterns, symbolizing the Star of Bethlehem.
8. Commemoration of Ninoy Aquino
Ninoy Aquino was a Filipino journalist and politician killed during Ferdinand Marcos’ dictatorship when he
was at Manila Airport, returning home after three years of exile in the United States. Every August 21 his
death is commemorated along, with the fall of the dictatorship, with parades in the capital.
9. Santacruzan and Flores de Mayo
On this occasion, which marks the arrival of spring, the Philippines is full of flowers. The women share
them in the streets as a symbol of virtue, the sidewalks are filled with petals and a festival queen is chosen.
In this month the religious festivals of Santacruzan in Manila takes place which is a recreation of the arrival
of Santa Helena to the Holy Land.

Media, Popular Culture, and their Relationship

 Media and Popular Culture is an an international, peer-reviewed, open-access journal that focuses on
the various aspects of popular culture and how it is intertwined with media. Media and popular culture aims
to study this distance between the henemony of the elite class and the struggle of the lower class, how media
has been playing an effective role in bridging this gap. Interdisciplinary in nature, the journal pays attention
to the interconnection of popular culture with ethnicity, gender, identity, and social class.
The relationship between mass media and popular culture is one of influence. Because of the efficacy of
mass media campaigns, mass media influences trends in pop culture.

How does culture spread through media?

The most important role played by mass media is in diffusion of culture. The work and beliefs of
religious groups and a hundred others pertaining to the way human beings behave are constantly reported
and discussed in the press, in books and on television and radio programs.
Popular culture and media are deeply interconnected, with media playing a significant role in spreading
and shaping popular culture. Media, including television, film, music, social media, and the internet, acts as
a platform for the dissemination of popular culture trends, ideas, and values.
For example, the rise of social media platform like Instagram and TikTok has enabled the rapid spread
of popular culture trends, from fashion and beauty standards to dance challenges and viral memes. These
platforms provide a space for individuals to share and consume popular culture content, thereby influencing
and shaping broader societal trends.
Television and film also play a crucial role in disseminating popular culture. For instance, the global
popularity of American TV shows and movies has contributed to the spread of American popular culture
around the world, impacting fashion, language, and societal norms in various countries.
Music in another significant aspect of popular culture that is spread through media. The rise of
streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music has made it easier for artists for reach global audiences,
thereby influencing popular culture on a global scale.
In summary, media acts as a powerful vehicle for spreading popular culture, influencing societal norms,
and shaping global trends through various platforms and channels.

GEE 106- Philippine Popular Culture

Topic/s: How Media Affects Culture and How Culture Affects Media
Culture Affects Media
Prepared by: Christian Paul Mayuga BSED Social Studies 2
Date:

Definition of Media and Culture

Media (from Latin word medi means “middle.”), the plural of medium, broadly describes all channels of
communication, including everything from printed paper to digital data. Media comprises news, art,
educational content, and any form of information that can reach or influence people, including television,
radio, books, magazines, and the internet.
The concept of media means vehicle where concept, information, education, etc. that takes place through the
transfer to individuals or communities. It is defined as the whole of visual and audio tools that have basic
responsibilities.
On the other hand, culture (from the Latin cultura stemming from colere, meaning "to cultivate")can be
defined as the societal norms people encounter within their community. A cultural norm can be defined as
something acceptable within society. For example, it is acceptable by many Muslim people for women
within that culture to be seen with a Hijab, or head covering.

How Media Influences Culture and How Culture Influences Media

Media influences culture and society by allowing for a very rapid exchange of ideas. Cultures share
concepts with one another far more readily than in the premodern period; it is difficult to overstate the
importance of this rapid cultural sharing on cultural development.
Through the media, ideas concerning medicine, politics, religions, and any number of other important
subjects can spread and take root across the globe with profound consequences for cultures and societies.
Media affects culture
The media affects people in varied ways, some are positive and others are negative.

Positive Aspects:
• The media shows us constructive information. It can boost self-esteem, heighten interest levels in a
particular subject, or encourage them.
• It is a getaway to places unknown, foreign, and magical with knowledge of what goes on around us
without being physically present in that place.
• Video games today are increasingly active- oriented, making kids get off their behind and engage in games
that require physical movement.
• Media also help us engage with other people around the world, and be more open and understanding
towards other cultures.

Negative Aspects:
• Kids are influenced easily by what they see on television or the Internet, mimicking such acts (if not as
extreme, though on the lines of violence) on elders, or kids their age.
• Obesity is on the rise for kids who plant themselves in front of the television, not budging for hours on end.
• The media can influence one to do things that aren't moral, like getting into substance abuse.

Culture affects media

• "culture [is] the set of learned behaviors, beliefs, attitudes, values and ideals that are characteristic of a
particular society or population.
• Media is influenced by culture as much as the programming or stories that they are enveloped within.
• Media cannot escape the cultural influence. Culture provides media with sources for content.
• All contents are derived from culture including entertainment, news and advertisement.