PHILIPPINE FOLK DANCE

In the Philippines, Francisca Reyes-Aquino, known as the “Mother of

Philippine Folk Dancing”, spearheaded the development of Philippine
Folk dances.
According to Francisca Reyes- Aquino, folk dances may be classified
by geographical extent of origin, nature, speed of movement,
formation, and distinguishing feature. Lately, folkloric specialists
merged regional and functional classifications to sort out the different
dance materials. (Lopez, 2006)
Nature of Philippine Folk Dances
The Philippines is comprised of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
Each region has different ways of narrating their history, religion,
language, arts, crafts, and traditional dances .

History of Folk Dance in the Philippines

What is FOLK DANCE?
- Filipino folk dances combine influences from conquerors
and immigrants while also retaining their uniquely
Filipino roots. Filipino folk dancing is a true
representation of day-to-day living from earlier eras while
also enthralling audiences now.
- In the Philippines, it is unclear exactly when dancing
started to become a regular aspect of life. In modern
times, the dances are still performed at weddings and
birth celebrations in addition to festivals and
commemorations of former military victories.
Philippine Folk Dances from Luzon

Luzon, the nothernmost region of the Philippines is rich in traditions

and heritage. In traces its cultural influences from Hindu, Buddhist,
Spanish, and many other ethnic religious tribes. The cultural folk dances
from this region represent all the different factions or tribal groups in
one way or another.

The Cordillerans or Igorot is the term or the collective name of

several ethnic groups in the Phlippines. These tribes – The Ifugao,
Kalinga, Bontoc, Apayao, Ibaloi, kalangaya, and
the Kankanaey in benguet mostly inhabit the mountains of Luzon.
 Luzon is the northern part of the country. It includes the different
Cordillera tribes as Ifugao, Benguet, Bontoc, Apayao, and Kalinga
which contributed much to the dance tribe of the Philippines.

IDAW – depicts the hunting ritual performed before a tribal war.

Tribesmen would search and watch the scares idaw bird which is
believed to lead the tribe to victory.

BANGA DANCE OR POT DANCE

– shows the Cordillera women on their way to the river to fetch water
for water for their families. This dance projects the skill, strength,
grace, and agility of the women as they carry five or six clay pots full
of water on their heads.
- The Banga or pot dance is a contemporary performance of
Kalinga of the Mountain Province in the Philippines. This
dance illustrates the languid grace of a tribe otherwise known
as fierce warriors.
o - The rice terraces of the Cordillera Region served as
inspiration for this dance. Women balance clay pots
(banga) on their heads, as they move gracefully across
the stage. The dance signifies the hard work and
perseverance of women in their daily lives.
IDUDU – The family is the basic structure of family life among the
Itneg/ Tinggian people. The caring for the children is shared by both
the mother and father. While the men are clearing the fields, breaking
the soil with bamboo and their feet, the women watch the children.
Soon as the men are done, they take care of the children while the
women do back breaking work.

RAGRAGSAKAN- The Kalingga borrowed the beautiful

word “ragragsakan” from the Ilocano, which
means “merriment”. The two biggest occasions for a
ragragsakan in a kalinga village are for the homecoming of
successful head takers and the culmination of peace pact
between warring tribes.

- The word means “Merriment”. This dance would be

performed after a successful headhunt and also for a
 peace pact between waring tribles. The colorful hand
woven blankets “blankets of life” aare worn around the
neck while baskets to carry produce or rice are worn
upon the head. Some versions of this dance use the
“Banga” instead of the basket.

Maglalatik- Maglalatik was originally performed in Biñan, Laguna as a

mock-war dance that demonstrates a fight between the Moros and the
Christians over the prized latik or coconut meat during the Spanish
rule, this dance is also shown to pay tribute to the town’s patron saint,
San Isidro Labrador.
- is performed during religious procession in the fiesta of Biñan
as an offering to San Isidro de Labrador, the patron saint of farmers. It
is a mock war dance that depicts a fight over coconut meat, a highly-
prized food. Male dancers are using coconut shells as part of their
costume. The dance has 4 parts: two devoted to the battle and two
devoted to reconciling.

Pandanggo sa Ilaw- The word pandanggo comes from the Spanish

dance “fandango”characterized with lively steps and clapping while
following a varying ¾ beat. Pandanggo requires excellent balancing
skill to maintain the stability of three tinggoy, or oil lamps, placed on
head and at the back of each hand. This famous dance of grace and
balance originated from Lubang Island, Mindoro.
- This dance which originated in Lubang Island is similar to a
Spanish Fandango, but the Pandanggo is performed while balancing
three oil lamps – one on the head, and one in each hand.
Binasuan- Binasuan is a folk dance that
originated in Bayambang,
Pangasinan, Philippines. The word
“Binasuan” means “with the use
of drinking glasses.”
The dancers balance glasses on
their heads and in their hands as
they move. The glasses are filled
with rice wine, which make any
misstep a messy mistake. People
dance binasuan at weddings and
festivals. A group of dancers
generally performs binasuan,
moving in unison, but occasionally
breaking into smaller groups and
performing different
choreography. For example, they
can begin in a circle, then form
two columns, which then bend
into semicircles, and one follows
the other to reform the circle.
Binasuan is a folk dance that
originated in Bayambang,
Pangasinan, Philippines. The word
“Binasuan” means “with the use
of drinking glasses.”
The dancers balance glasses on
their heads and in their hands as
they move. The glasses are filled
with rice wine, which make any
misstep a messy mistake. People
dance binasuan at weddings and
festivals. A group of dancers
generally performs binasuan,
moving in unison, but occasionally
breaking into smaller groups and
performing different
choreography. For example, they
can begin in a circle, then form
two columns, which then bend
into semicircles, and one follows
the other to reform the circle.
Binasuan- is a skill dance performed by women, which originated in
Bayambang, Pangasinan. It may be performed in solo or in group.
The word “binasuan” literally means “with the use of drinking
glasses.”

The dancer performs binasuan by balancing three drinking glasses

half-filled with rice wine or water, one on top of the head and the two
others on the palm of the left and right hand. Binasuan is a skill dance
and the measure of expertise lies in the ability not to spill the wine or
drop the glass as the dancer performs the various combinations of
stances, postures, gestures, footwork, and swirls.
- Binasuan, which originated in Bayambang in the Pangasinan
province, is usually performed at festive social occasions like
weddings and birthdays. The steps concentrate on careful balance of
three half-filled glasses of rice wine on their heads and hands as they
gracefully spin and roll on the ground.
 - Binasuan is a dance that originated from Pangasinan and is
performed using glasses filled with rice wine. The dancers balance the
glasses on their heads while gracefully moving around and keeping
the wine from spilling.

Carinosa- is a South East Asian dance style from the Philippines.

Carinosa in english literally means ‘Loving or affectionate one’. This
‘romantic’ Philippines dance originated in the Panay island in the
colonial-era from the Maria Clara suite of Philippine folk dances and is
supposed to be heavily influenced by Hispanic culture. A fan or a
handkerchief plays an important role in this dance form. Furthermore,
this form of dancing is said to comprise elements belonging to styles
such as Bolero and Jarabe Tapatio.
- This folk dance is the courtship between two sweethearts.
Dancers make a number of flirtatious movements as they hide behind
fans or handkerchiefs and peek out at one another.
Subli- The term “subli” is from two tagalog words “subsub” meaning
falling on head and “bali”, which means broken. Hence, the dancers
appear to be lame and crooked throughout the dance. This version is
originally a ritual dance of the natives of Bauan, Batangas, which is
shown during fiestas as a ceremonial worship dance to the town’s
icon, the holy cross referred to in the vernacular as Mahal Na Poong
Santa Cruz.
-The term “subli” is from two tagalog
words “subsub” meaning “falling on one’s head” and “bali”, which
means “Broken”. This version is originally a ritual dance of the natives
of Bauan, Batangas, which is performed during fiestas as a ceremonial
worship dance to the town’s icoon, the Holy Cross.
Balse- Balse was a popular dance in Marikina, Rizal during the
Spanish times. Balse (valse in Spanish) means waltz. This dance was
performed after the lutrina ( a religious procession) and the music that
accompanied the dancers was played by the musikong bungbong
(musicians using instruments made of bamboo).
Jotabal- It is derived from the words Jota and valse. Jota is a popular
dance introduced in the Philippines by the Spaniards. Valse means
waltz, a step or a dance in 3/4 time. This lively festival dance
originated in Camohaguin, Gumaca, Quezon (formerly Tayabas).
Makonggo- It is a comic dance from Santa Maria, Bulacan.
Makonggo is derived from the Tagalog word chonggo or unggo which
means monkey. In this dance, the dancer imitates a monkey - its
characteristic movements, gestures, grimaces, etc. when it is in a
happy, playful or angry mood, while it is playing, eating, or resting.
Only one man performs this dance. Most of his movements are his
own improvisations.
Sayaw sa Bangko- This dance is performed on top of a narrow bench
or “bangko”. Good balance is the needed skill for this dance. History
stated that Sayaw sa Bangko originated in areas of Pangapisan,
Lingayen and Pangasinan.
- Sayaw sa Bangko is a traditional dance from Pangasinan, a
province in the northern part of Luzon. It involves dancers performing
intricate steps and lifts on top of a narrow bench or bamboo pole.
-Sayaw sa bangko or Sayaw ed Tapew na Bangko is a dance
which originates from pangasinan as researched by Jovita Sison. It is
performed by a couple on a narrow bench. They do not compete, but
rather complement each other, so that no one falls. Sayaw sa Bangko is
usually performed during town fiestas.
Magkasuyo – came from the Quezon province. It is a variation of
the balse – the one-two-three graceful triple meter that Filipino
traditional dance borrowed from the Spanish waltz. The folk dance is
also a series of close-step-close movements with a couple facing each
other in a courtship configuration.
Mangyan – This dance originated from the Mangyan tribe in Mindoro.
It depicts the typical Filipino courtship and how men go to great
lengths to win the love of their partners. The dancers elaborate
movements show the different means of courtship, such as hunting,
fishing, and farming.

Salakot – The dances portray the use of the head gear in a graceful,
almost flirtatious move. It involves tossing the hat onto the floor,
dancing around it.

Philippine Folk Dances from Visayas

The central islands of the Philippines, are grouped into three
sections: Central, Eastern, and Western. The peope in the region
consist of Autronesians, Negritos, and the Animist Tribal Group. Visayas
became a melting pot for many different tribes and cultural
backgrounds. You will see that the dances of the Visayas are more upbeat
and exciting, not so much in drama and tribal meanings as other regions.
 The Visayas is a group of islands in the central Philippines. It is
considered the melting pot of diverse cultures and traditions. Most
Visayan dances have western, arabian, and Spanish influences. The
upbeat rhythm of the dances reflects the happy character and outlook
of the people. Their dances frequently draw from the inspiration from
animal movements.
The Folk Dances of Visayas The central islands of the Philippines, are
grouped into three sections: Central, Eastern, and Western. The
people in the region consist of Austronesians, Negritos, and the Animist
Tribal Group. Visayas became a melting pot for many different tribes
and cultural backgrounds. You will see that the dances of the Visayas
are more upbeat and exciting, not so much in drama and tribal
meanings as other regions
Dances from Visayas
Alkamfor
Alkamfor is a couples dance from Leyte, a province of the
Philippines located in the Visayas group of islands. In this dance, the
girl holds a handkerchief laced with camphor, a substance that is
locally thought to induce romance. She flirts with the man by waving
her scented handkerchief in front of his face.
Tinikling – originated from the province of Leyte and is considered the
national dance. It mimics the movements of the tikling bird hopping
over shrubs, grasses, or bamboo traps set by farmers. Dancers
displays remarkable grace while jumping and hopping between two
bamboos poles.
Kuratsa- from Bohol province, is performed using a moderate waltz
style. It tells the story of a young, free-spirited couple who attempt to
get each other’s attention.
Kuradang, known as Curacha, is a lively wedding dance popular in
Bohol, where it is performed to the accompaniment of a rondalla, an
ensemble of string instruments known as Curacha, is a lively wedding
dance popular in Bohol, where it is performed to the accompaniment
of a rondalla, an ensembles of string instruments.
- The Kuratsa is highly favored by the Waray people of the
Eastern Visayan region in the Philippines. Strictly speaking, The
Kuratsa must be done the amenudo; that is, only one couple dances it
at a time. the Kuratsa is however, very different in the manner of
execution to the Mexican counterpart.
 - This is also dance of courtship and is often performed at
weddings and other social occasions. Its three parts are divided for:
first, the couple performs a waltz; in the second part, the music sets a
faster pace as the man pursues the woman around the dance floor in
a chase; for the third part, the music becomes even faster as the man
wins over the woman with his mating dance.
Inalimango- from Panay and Capiz, depicts the mud crab’s
movements.
Mananagat – (Cebuano for “fisherman”) depicts fisherman at sea.
Dancers in long-line formations mimic women scooping water from the
banca (canoe) with bamboo shells and men wielding wooden paddles.
Mananguete – (coconut wine tapper) reenacts the stages of making
tuba (coconut wine). The dance starts with movements that mimic the
sharpening of the sanggot (scythe) and then proceeds to the cleaning
of the kawit (bamboo container),

La Berde – (literally, green) is a courtship dance from a mountain

settlement in Talamban, Cebu. In a series of quick steps and quick
changes, the dance celebrates what is lush and full of life. The dance
is performed by an interesting cast of two girls and a boy, instead of
the usual pair of dancers.
Pantomina - is Spanish for pantomime, movements imitating the
courtship movements of the rooster and the hen.
a dance widely popular in every town of Catanduanes. Pantomina is
Spanish for pantomime, movements imitating the courtship
movements of the rooster and the hen.
- Courtship dance Pantomina is a Bicolano folk dance that came
from the Spanish word for “pantomime”, because of its
courting/wooing movements. Its old name is “Salampati”, Bicol term
for doves, so the dance is sometimes referred to as the “dance of the
doves”.
Bulaklakan- Bulaklakan is a traditional Philippine folk dance that is
typically performed during the "Maytime" festival celebrated in the
month of May. The dance is said to represent the flowers that bloom
during the springtime.
- The bulaklakan is a traditional Filipino folk dance that is often
performed at weddings and other celebrations. The dance is said to
represent the movement of the flowers in the field, and is often
performed by a group of women dressed in brightly colored
costumes. The dance is typically accompanied by live music, and the
movements are often very fast and lively.
Paseo de Iloilo- Andaluz (also called Paseo de Iloilo) is a
sophisticated courtship and flirtation dance that originated in Iloilo at
the time of Spanish colonization. In this dance, men compete with
each other in trying to attract a young lady by showing off their
chivalry, grace, and confidence.
-From Leyte come this couples dance in which the girl holds a
handkerchief laced with camphor oil, a substance which supposedly
induces romance. Also known as Paseo de Iloilo, for its province of
origin, this is one of the most sophisticated courtship and flirtation
dances of the Spanish era.
Jota Cagayana- During the Spanish regime, the Jota dances were
among the most popular dances in the Philippines. It is a gay, lively
dance. Undoubtedly, all the Jota dances of the Philippines are
adaptations from Spanish Jotas as performed by the early Spanish
settlers in the Philippines.
The dance is from the town of Enrile, Cagayan.
Mazurka Boholana - Mazurka Boholana is a Spanish-inspired
ballroom dance from the Bohol province of the Philippines. Although
the mazurka is the Polish national dance, it was wildly popular
throughout Europe in the 19th century and even in colonized lands
overseas.

Escotis- It is popularly known in Capiz and is performed in any social

gathering of the people inhabiting the mountains of Capiz in the
barrios of Tinpas and Panitan and also in the town of Panay.
Kinaranza Kinaranza is folk dance originated from Kalibo, Aklan.
During the dance, the man holds the woman's waist while she holds
her skirt. Kinaransa from karansa is better described as the reaction of
someone who moves with a body jerk when surprised or tickled or
poked on the side.
Lawiswis Kawayan Lawiswis Kawayan is dance in the Visayas
Region by the Waray people.
Through the years, Lawiswis Kawayan dance is not only dance by the
Waray but also by the Filipinos in different region of the Philippines and
come up with four versions of the Lawiswis Kawayan dance. One
version of Lawisiwis Kawayan folk dance usually dances during house
blessing.

Philippine Folk Dances from Mindanao

Mindanao is the southernmost region of The Philippines. It is the second
largest island group and its cultural groupings consist of mostly Muslim
or “Moro” people, and other ethnic groups such as the Maranao, Tausug,
Banguingui, and indigenous tribes known as Lumad.
Mindanao lies in the Southern part of the country. Its dances
often reflect the religion and culture of Muslim Filipinos.
Dances from Mindanao
Singkil - represents the epic legend “Darangan” of the Maranao
people. It tells the fateful story of Princess Gandingan who was caught
in the middle of a forest during an earthquake caused by fairies. The
crisscross rhythmic clapping of bamboo poles signifies falling trees
which the princess gracefully avoids. Her loyal slave accompanies her
throughout the ordeal and finally a prince save her. The dancers wear
serious and regal faces signified posture from a slow pace
progressing to a fast tempo while skillfully maneuvering the fans which
symbolize the wind.
- a dance that tells the story of a princess who escapes from
danger with the help of a mystical forest creature. It originated from
the Maranao people of Mindanao but has become popular in Luzon as
well.
- The Maranao dance called Singkil is in the repertory of all
Filipino dance troupes. In 1958 the Bayanihan Dance troupe started
with a simple version and has since developed it into a theatrical and
stylized spectacle to the point of its becoming the troupe's signature
piece.
- Traditionally, single women perform this dance to attract the
attention of potential suitors. It is a series of graceful movements as
they step in and out from between bamboo poles which are
rhythmically clapped together. Props such as fans and scarves are
often used to enhance the movements.

- Singkil (or Sayao sa Kasingkil) is a famous Philippine dance of

the Maguindanao people, but was popularized by the nearby Maranao
peoples of Lake Lanao and later the Bayanihan Philippine National
Folk Dance Company.
Also known as the Princess Dance or the Royal Maranao Fan Dance,
the dance is based on the Maranao interpretation of the ancient Indian
epic, the Ramayana: the Darangen. The Singkil narrates a scene in
which Sita (Putri Gandingan) escapes her abductor, the demon king
Ravana and is lost in the forests of Alangka, thereupon being found by
her husband, Prince Rama. Interesting to note is that in the original
Ramayana epic, Rama selects Hanuman, the Hindu monkey-god, to
find Sita on his behalf; the fact that in the Singkil it is Rama (Rajah
Bantugan) who finds her suggests a modification of the original Hindu
narration in order to agree with monotheistic Islamic ideology.

Kasingkil refers to the art of moving one’s feet in and out of two
clicking bamboo poles in imitation of Putri Gandingan who gracefully
avoided the falling trees brought about by an earthquake.

Performers would therefore gracefully step in and out of bamboo

poles, arranged in crisscross fashion while manipulating either fans or
simply their bare hands. Played at celebrations and festivals,
traditionally the dance was performed by a girl of royal blood intend on
advertising herself to would-be-suitors for her future marriage.

The dance is said to have been named after either the leg bracelets or
anklets of silver, nickel or brass with chiming bells of the same name
or the act of voluntarily or accidentally entangling on one’s feet in
either vines or tall grass.

Kini-Kini – or the royal walk depicts the social elite upbringing of

Maranao women. The dancers display grace in their movements with
scarves.
-Kini means the Royal Walk. Maranao women perform this dance
with scarves. The beauty of the scarves and the talent and grace in which
it is displayed shows their elite social upbringing.
Pangalay – is a Badjao dance. The Badjao are known as the “Sea
Gypsies.” Their dance demonstrates the agility of the upper body, the
rhythmic bounce of the shoulders, and the simultaneous alternate
waving of the arms. It is commonly performed at weddings and other
social gatherings.
-The pangalay is native to the badjao, who are also known as “Sea
Gypsies”. It is a dance that emphasizes the agility of the upper body.
The pangalay is commonly performed at weddings and other social
gatherings. One will also see some parts of the Singkil in this dance. This
dance is sometimes called the Muslim Dance of Four Bamboos.
 - “Fingernail dance” is the sobriquet given to a South East Asian dance known as
Pangalay. This “traditional” dance is said to have originated from Sulu islands located in the
Philippines, and is said to have been created by the Tausug people. Apparently, this dance is
said to be extremely similar to the classical Balinese and Thai dances. Furthermore, this dance
also comprises of another version referred to as “Pakiring”. This dance style is supposedly
based on pre-Islamic and Buddhist concepts related to male and female celestial agents.

According to the Sanskrit language Pangalay, means “Temple of dance”. This dance is
also said to have been created by people belonging to the Tausug community. In terms
of technique this dance is also similar to the Javanese and Thai form of dancing, and is
also said to possess elements belonging to a form of Southeast Asian martial art known
as “Kuntaw Silat”. In addition, this dance is performed mainly during weddings and other
festive occasions. There are two alternate versions of this dance and they include:

1. Pangasik: Performed mainly by males.

2. Pangiluk: Performed by both males and females.

Asik – is danced solo by a maiden ornamented with fine beads,

makeup, and a long head scarf. She gives her whole heart and soul
throughout the dance to soften and win the favor of her Sultan master
or to make up for a wrongdoing.
- A solo slave dance performed by the umbrella-bearing
attendant to win the favor of her sultan master. Asik usually precedes
a performance of Singkil.
TRIBE: Maguindanao
Origin: Lanao del Sur
- A solo slave dance performed by the umbrella-bearing
attendant to win the favor of her sultan master. The girl wears
long metal fingernails and dances and poses in doll-like
motions.

Itik-Itik- The Itik-Itik is a dance from Surigao del Norte, in which the
movements of a duck are imitated. An itik is a species of duck.
- Itik-itik is a mimetic folk dance in the Philippines. It originated in
Surigao in Philippines.

- Itik-Itik Dance It is one of the popular folk dances in the

Philippines especially among the Visayan. The Itik Itik Dance steps
are very similar to the gestures of ducks. The dancers act or mimic the
movements of the native duck. The dance is believed to have
originated from the dance Sibay danced to the Dejado music.
- This dance is best described as a mimic the way a duck walks,
as well as the way it splashes water on its back to attract a mate.
According to the tradition, a lady named Kanang did the choreography
of Itik-itik in a baptismal party. Then, other guests copied her
movements.
- The dance originated from Surigao del Norte, Mindanao,
Philippines.
According to the story, a young woman named Kanang (short for
Cayetana) was the best dancer in that province. At one baptismal
celebration, she introduced new steps which were improvisations of
the dance Sibay. She imitated the movements of the ducks or itik.
Because of its unusual steps and fascinating interpretation, the
audience began imitating her.

Kandingan- Performed at Tausug weddings in Julu, the Kandingan

consists of figures and steps based on classical and traditional Indian
dance forms. Dancers perform with slightly bent knees turned
outward, fingers held stiffly together with the thumb outward and
apart.

SAGAYAN- is a Philippine war dance performed by both the

Maguindanao and Maranao depicting in dramatic fashion the steps
their hero, Prince Bantugan, took upon wearing his armaments, the
war he fought in and his subsequent victory afterwards. Performers,
depicting fierce warriors would carry shield with shell noisemakers in
one hand and double-bladed sword in the other attempting rolling
movements to defend their master.
-(TRIBE: MAGUINDANAO) [Origin: Cotabato]
- Performed by very fierce warriors carrying a shield elaborately
painted with curlicues, rounds, twirls and mirrors which are attached
with shell noisemakers. This dance is performed before any
celebration or gathering to drive away evil spirits (tunong) and to
welcome good fortunes or omen.

Kapa Malong Malong (MARANAO) – This dance shows the many

ways of wearing a malong, a simple tubular yet highly functional piece
of cloth.

Sakuting- Sakuting is a Philippine folk dance that interprets a fight

between Ilocano Christians and non-Christians. This mock fight
between rival folks is traditionally performed during Christmas at the
town plaza or performed house-to-house as a form of traditional
carolling show. Dancers perform the Sakuting to receive presents or
the local money called Aguinaldo.
 - Sakuting came from the Abra province in the northern part of
the island of Luzon. The Ilocos Region officially includes Ilocos Norte,
Ilocos Sur, La Union and Pangasinan. Abra, Mountain Province and
Benguet were also parts of the region before separating as the
Cordillera Administrative Region. All these provinces are home to the
Ilocanos who are natives of the lowlands and the Tingguian tribes who
are natives of the mountain areas.

Pangalay- Pangalay (also known as Daling-Daling or Mengalai in

Sabah is the traditional "fingernail" dance of the Tausug people of the
Sulu Archipelago and Sabah.
The dance is the most distinctively Asian of all the southern Philippine
dances because dancers must have dexterity and flexibility of the
shoulders, elbows, and wrists – movements that strongly resemble
those of "kontaw silat,” a martial art common in Maritime South East
Asia. The Pangalay is predominantly performed during weddings or
other festive events. The male equivalent of the Pangalay is
the Pangasik and features more martial movements, while a pangalay
that features both a male and female dancer is called Pangiluk.

The original concept of the Pangalay is based on the pre-Islamic

Buddhist concept of male and female celestial angels common as
characters in other Southeast Asian dances.
Neighboring samal and Bajau peoples call this type of
dance, Umaral or Igal, and they sometimes use bamboo castanets as
substitutes for long fingernails.
- This dance is classified under Muslim/Moro dance. It is a
popular festival dance in Sulu, during wedding celebrations among the
affluent families. They may last for several days or even weeks
depending on the financial status and agreement of both families.
Dancers perform this dance to the music of the kulintangan, gabbang,
and agongs during the wedding feast.
- (TRIBE: BADJAO) [Origin: Zamboanga del Sur
- a popular festival dance in Sulu. This is a traditional fingernail
dance that is performed at wedding celebrations held by affluent
families.
Pangalay ha Pattong (TRIBE: BADJAO) – a dance performed by a
royal couple balancing on top of bamboo poles and imitating the
movements of a southern boat with colorful sails or the so-called
vinta.
Pangalay sa Agong [ORIGIN: TAUSUG- SULU] – a traditional
dance of the Tausug wherein two warriors compete against each
other for the attention of a young woman. They use gongs to
show their prowess and skill.
Pigapir (TRIBE: MARANAO) [Origin: LANAO del SUR]
- Ladies of the royal court perform this stately dance in
preparation for an important event. Thee ladies gracefully
manipulate the Aper (apir) or fan, while emphasizing their
small steps, or “kini-kini”, which is a sign of good
upbringing.
Kalapati- Kalapati means dove.The kalapati is a dance
patterned after the characteristic movements of the doves as
they court – bowing, billing, and cooing. Originating from
Cabugao, Ilocos Sur, this lovely courtship dance depicts the
typical traits of the Ilocanos – simplicity, naturalness, and
shyness.

Dugso

The dance must have originated from Bukidnon, northeastern

Mindanao since they are performed as an entertainment for the deities
in fiestas organized for them. It was originally thought that this dance
was performed only during harvest time or upon the birth of a male
heir. Women would wear colorful feathered head dresses, plaid
costumes and anklets. They would step rhythmically around a bamboo
arch decorated with newly-gathered palay (rice stalks) and corn, and
their movements are emphasized by the tinkling sounds from the
anklets.

KARASAGUYON- The dance is classified under Tribal dance. it

originated from Lake Sebu, South Cotabato. “Karasaguyon” of the
T’boli portrays a polygamous male in the process of picking his next
wife from among four sisters vying for his attention. The jingling of
beads and brass bells around their waists and ankles provide musical
accompaniment.
UDOL- This dance is classified under Tribal dances. It originated from
the Tagakaulo tribe of southern Davao.This is a ceremonial dance
which portrays death and revenge. It opens with three women walking
in with votive candles, mourning the loss of a relative. They are
followed by men playing the udol, a long wooden musical instrument.
The woman make eloquent gestures of tenderness and despair such
as wielding a spear and pounding the udol in anger, countering the
steady rhythms of the musicians. A male priest then dances, begging
the spirits to guide the soul of the deceased. Finally, two warriors
enter, spears in hand, performing a frenzied dance in a circle, then
disappearing off stage “to the woods,” apparently to secure the heads
of their enemies.

MAGLANGKA- This dance which originated from Jolo, Sulu is

classified under Muslim Dance. Literally meaning “to dance,” the
maglangka is used to mold the adolescent girls into ladies of good
breeding and accomplished dancing skills. The girls are strictly taught
to gracefully execute movements imitating birds in flight, fish
swimming in the sea, or branches swaying in the air while remaining in
the confines of a square cloth. these movements require intense
concentration and innate style as the ladies express emotions and
entertain guests.

Tahing Baila (TRIBE: YAKAN) – Yakan dance for a bountiful fish

catch where they imitate their movements.

Pangsak (TRIBE: YAKAN) [Origin: Basilan]- In this dance, a man

unties a wrap from his wife-to-be’s waist to wrap around her
body and dance with. Both of their faces are dotted with white
paint, to hide their identity from evil spirits.
 I. GENERAL CLASSIFICATIONS OF PHILIPPINE DANCES

A. Geographical Extent of Origin

1. National Dance – found throughout the islands with little or no
modification.
Examples: Rigodon de Honor
Carinosa
Jota
Balitaw
Pandanggo
2. Local Dance – found in certain localities.
Examples: Tinikling – Leyte
Maglalatik- Binan
Esperansa – Nabua
Subli- Batangas
Biniganbigat - Abra

GENERAL CLASSIFICATIONS OF PHILIPPINE DANCES

B. According to Nature
1. Occupational dances – depicting action of certain occupation,
industry, or human labor.
Examples: Pasiguin, Regatones, Pandango sa Bulig,
Mananguete, Pabirik, Kin-naras
2. Religious or ceremonial dances – performed in connection with
religious vows and ceremonies.
Examples: Dugsu
Sua-Sua
Subli
Sayaw sa Obando
Sala Te Mais
3. Comic dances – depicting funny movements for dance
entertainment.
Examples: Kimbo-kimbo
Makonggo
Kinoton
4. Game dances – with play elements (dance mixers)
Examples: Lubi-lubi
Pabo
5. Wedding dances – performed during wedding feast.
Examples: Pantomina
Habanera Botolena
6. Courtship dances – depicting love- making
Examples: La Jota Moncadena
Carinosa
Kuratsa
Tadek
Hele-hele Bago Quire
Daling-daling
Maramion
7. Festival dances – suitable for special occasion or any social
gatherings.
Examples: Pandango
Jota
Habanera
Surtido
Karatong
8. War dances – showing imaginary combat or duel
Examples: Sagayan
Palo-palo
Maglalatik
Taming
Sagayan
Tagbanua war dance

9. Imitative dances – dances mimicking the movements of any

animals
Examples: Lapay Bantigue
Arigay
Kalapati

C. According to Movements
 1. Active - with fast energetic movements
Examples: Tinikling, Maglalatik,
Sakuting, Polkabal
2. Moderate
Examples: Carinosa, Tagala,
Habanera, Paupuri
3. Slow
Examples: Pasakot, Amorosa, Tiliday,
Kundiman
4. Slow and Fast
Examples: Putritos, Ba-Ingles,
Habanera Botolena, Alcamfor

D. According to Formations
1. Square or quadrille
Examples: Rigodon, Los Bailes de
Ayer, Birginia
2. Long Formation (two or more parallel lines)
Examples: Lulay, Sakuting
3. Set Consisting of two or more
pair as a unit, partners facing each other or standing side by
side.
Examples: Binadyong, Kakawati,
Hapik

According to Types of Philippine Dances

1. Cordillera Dance – originated from the highland provinces of
Cordilleras. The Male basically wears a G-String and the Female
wears a tapis. They perform in time with the beat of Gangsa, an
indigenous metal instruments, tong-a-tong, this is a set of
bamboo instrument with a close node in one and an open node
in the other.
2. Muslim Dance – Muslim dances are primarily found in Mindanao.
The dancers wear colorful costumes and perform with the
accompaniment of agong and kulintang and give emphasis on
the hand and arm movements.
3. Maria Clara Dance – the dancers used bamboo castanets or
fans as their implements and the male dancers wear barong
tagalog while the female wears Maria Clara dress.
 4. Rural Dance (Country Dance) -dances during fiestas and
demonstrates love of life.

II. Special Classification

- Group dances having special distinctive features
A. Dances with songs
Examples: Abaruray, Manang Biday,
Tinikling, Rogelia, Lawiswis Kawayan
B. Old Ballroom dances Polka, Mazurka, Chotis,
Balse
C. Dances with Implements
Examples: Maglalatik, Sakuting, Jota
Mocadena, Tinikling, Salakot, Binasuan
D. Dance with Combined Rhythm
Examples: Surtido, Pantomina, Los
Balles de Ayer

La Jota Moncadeña
This one example of Philippine Folk Dances is from an old Spanish
dance which is a combination of Spanish and Ilocano dance steps set
to Spanish music and castanets. Its more solemn version is performed
to accompany funeral processions.

Polkabal

Polkabal has European influence in its steps which is composed of

nine different steps which include various movements such as
fluttering, stepping heel-to-toe, a reenactment of a bull fight, and even
a leisurely walk.

Surtido
Surtido means “assortment,”. It is a square dance which combines
influences of French, Spanish and Mexican dance. According to the
tradition, this dance is performed by a head couple accompanied by
two other couples who lead all the dancers through various formations
that resemble an old-fashioned quadrille.
Cariñosa is a Philippine folk dance of Hispanic origin. It is closely
associated with the island of Panay and the Visayas region in general.
The word cariñosa is from the Spanishcariñosameaning the
affectionate one. Most Filipina women can be described
askarinyosa.This is a courtship dance that portrays acts of flirtation
between a man and a woman. The dancers perform steps resembling
hide-and-seek movements. The woman holds a handkerchief or
sometimes a fan.

Rigodon — Katipunan of Maryland. The Rigodon—also called

Rigodon de Honor—is a traditional formal dance from the Philippines
that evolved from dances brought to the Pacific islands by Spanish
settlers in the sixteenth century (the Rigodon dance was also said to
be popular in French and Spanish courts).

CLASSIFICATION OF FOLK
DANCE ACCORDING TO
NATURE
OCCUPATIONAL DANCES are those that depict the actions of a
particular occupation.

BINATBATAN DANCE-The Binatbatan dance is an

occupational dance from Paoay, Ilocos Norte. It depicts the
beating of cotton pods to separate the seeds drom the fibers.
Weavers in Paoay often engage themselves in abel-making
contests. Dancers maneuver in and out of parallel batbat
sticks, each about 18 inches long. Th rhythm and speed of the
beating of the sticks make for a lively and colorful display.

MAG-ASIK-This is a Tiruray dance for Girls, performed in

Nuro, Cotabato. According to the natives the word “mag-
asik” means “to sow seeds”. The dancers go around the cloth
with small, heavy steps but with graceful hand and arm
movements. The dance consists of two parts, which the natives
call “komaligue” and “mag-asik”.

RELIGIOUS/CEREMONIAL DANCES are those associated with

religion, vows and ceremonies.

DUGSO-Dugso is a dance which originated from Bukidnon in

Northeast Mindanao. Dancers perform this as an entertainment for the
dieties, to make them feel more comfortable during the fiesta that wwas
organized for them. It was originally thought that this dance was
performed only during harvest time or upon the birth of a male heir.
Women would wear colorful feathered head dresses, plaid costumes, and
anklets.

COMIC DANCES are those that depict funny movements for

entertainment

KINOTON-Is a comic dance from Ilocos Sur. It depicts the

movement of a person bitten by ants.

MAKONGGO
(there’s no picture for makonggo)

A comic dance which originated in Sta. Maria, Bulacan. A solo performer

imitates the movements characteristic of a monkey, its gestures and
grimaces.

GAME DANCES are those that are done with play elements.

LUBI-LUBI-Lubi-Lubi is a bicolano dance which is a

combination of a simple folk and social steps. Literally, lubi
means coconut. According to the BIkolanos this dance
originated in Leyte and Samar where it is still danced like the
Balitaw. It is also popular in Albay and Sorsogon.

WEDDING DANCES are those dances that are performed during

wedding feasts.
PAGKAWIN-The wedding ceremony is called Pagkawin. The
festivity opens with the Pahanda or presentation of dowry.
Relatives of the groom present to the relatives of the bride
traditional dowries that usually include that Salap-pa, A bras
box containing money, jewelry, other valuables, and all
important betel nut.

COURTSHIP DANCES depict the art of courtship.

SUA-SUA-This is a dance from Jolo, Sulu. Literally, “Sua-

sua” means “small orange plant”. According to the Moros of the
older generation, the movements in this dance have been modified and
modernized. Dancers sing as they perform the dance. The natives often
repeat the dance as many times as they like or until they are made to
stop.

FESTIVAL DANCES are those which are suitable for special occasions.

PANDANGGO-Pandangggo sa Ilaw or “Fandango” is a very popular

folk dance in the Philippines. It is said to have originated from Mindoro,
This dance of lights simulates fireflies at dusk and at night. The phrase
“sa ilaw” is Tagalog for “in light” and it refers to the three oil lamps that
are dances has to balance. The oil lamp is called tinghoy.

WAR DANCES

SAGAYAN-A philippine war dance performed by both the

Maguindanao and Maranao depicting in dramatic fashion the steps their
hero, Prince Bantugan, took upon wearing his armaments, the war he
fought in, and his subsequent victory afterwards.