The Philippines has a truly rich culture. From our songs down to our food, we are a nation of immense diversity. We had our own traditions long before the Spaniards came along, and when they did, they influenced us even more. The American and Japanese occupations also contributed to our already growing pot. Nowadays, many other cultures continue to do so.
To feed our curiosity, we are introduced to the various aspects of our culture through different mediums. There is film, art, music, theater, et cetera. We had the chance to be able to delve into our history by way of a show imparted to us just recently. Tali-galaw presented the background of the Philippines in a rich story in a unique manner, puppetry, which is rarely utilized nowadays. It was both entertaining and educational. They showed us events such as the war with the Spaniards, Americans and Japanese, and the different “fiestas” celebrated.
They also portrayed part of the arts, like the Ifugao dance and many more. We were reminded as well that we had people who gave up their lives for this country, who should continue to be honored and respected. They are an inspiration to us and we could do well to learn lessons in patriotism from them.
Our culture is one which we could be proud of and we should continue to sustain it. There are some forms that have done so and allow us to explore our cultural inheritance more. However, we have been so swayed by other cultures that we have seem to forgotten our own. Zarzuelas, kundimans, dances like the Pandango sa Ilaw, and other wonderful parts of our traditions have been slowly dwindling, if not completely obliterated. Thinking about this made me sad and led me to thinking what we could do to uphold this integral aspect of our country. One way is to support presentations like that of Tali-galaw and other groups like them. Another and also important way is to maintain traditions and values. Hospitality, respect for elders, and the fear of the Lord have been instilled in us and we should never lose these traits. They are vital to our identity and integrity as a people.
We should never lose sight of the character that our culture grants us, for it is what makes us truly Filipino.
