Types of dances by ethnic group

The following are various indigenous dances of the major ethnic groupings of the Philippines
Igorot
There are six Igorot ethno linguistic tribes living in Luzon's mountain terrains: the Bondoc,
Ifugao, Benguet, Apayo, and the Kalinga tribes, which retained much of their religions. Their
lives have been centered on appeasing their gods and maintaining a harmonious relationship
between spirits and man. Dances are usually linked to rituals for a good harvest, health,
prayers for peace, and safety in war.
Moro
The Moro people are the various usually unrelated Muslim Filipino ethnic groups. Most of
their dances are marked by intricate hand and arm movements, accompanied by instruments
such as the agong and kulintang.
Lumad
The non-Islamized natives of Mindanao are collectively known as the Lumad people. Like
the Igorot, they still retain much of their animistic anito religions.
Christianized Filipinos
The majority of Filipinos are the Christianized lowlanders of the islands. Their dances are
heavily influenced by the Spanish, though still retaining native aspects. The dances range
from courtship dances, to fiesta (festival) dances, to performance dances. The traditional
attire in these dances include the balintawak and patadyong skirts for the women, and camisa
de chino and colored trousers for the men.
Ritualistic dances
Filipino rituals are based on the belief that there exists a delicate balance between man and
nature, and the spirit world; and that it is through rituals that we can restore, enhance or
maintain this balance. It clarifies our place in the universe; each gesture and move in the
dance are symbolically articulating the role of man and human in the world. The dances
contain narratives which illustrate the contractual obligations governing relationships
between mankind, nature and the spirits. Because there are innumerable reasons for why and
how humans can cause shifts in the balance or forget their place in the grander scheme, there
are also innumerable rituals that can correct or address the concerns. Thus, it is in looking at
their intentions that it can be better understood, interpreted and classified. Some of the rituals
attempt to define the future, appease spirits, ask for good harvests, invoke protection, heal the
sick, asking for good luck, guidance and counsel. Almost every facet of Filipino life is linked
to a ritual practice and is an indication of the value and pervasiveness of rituals in folk
culture.
Filipino rituals are often shown in dance, because for Filipinos, dance is the highest symbolic
form. It transcends language and is able to convey emotions, collective memory, and
articulate their purpose. Dance in this case, is the fundamental expression of their complex
message and intention. Aside from ritualistic dance as a way to convey their request to the
gods or spirits, it also reaffirms social roles in village hierarchies. The leaders of the dances
are the masters of the village's collective memory and knowledge and subsequently,
commands the highest respect and status.