ETHNIC.The Philippine islands are inhabited by number of different ethnic groups.

The majority of the population is composed of ethnolinguistic groups whose languages are Austronesian (Malayo-Polynesian) in origin. Many of these groups converted to Christianity, and adopted many foreign elements of culture. These ethnic groups include the Cebuano, Ilocano, Pangasinense, Kapampangan, Tagalog, Bicolano, and Waray. In Mindanao, there are people who practice Islam. The Spanish called them Moros after the Moors. In some highland areas of Mindanao, there are mountain-dwelling ethnic groups collectively known as lumad. These people do not practice Islam, and maintain their animistic beliefs and traditions. The Negrito are a pre-Mongoloid people who migrated from mainland Asia and were the first human beings to settle the Philippines, around 30,000 years ago.[citation needed] The Negrito population are estimated to number around 30,000. Their tribal groups include the Ati, and the Aeta. Their ways of life remain mostly free from Western and Islamic influences. Scholars study them to try to understand pre-Hispanic culture. Most Filipinos are part of the Austronesian group, a group of Malayo-Polynesian speaking people often known as Malay race other ethnic groups form a minority in the Philippine population. These include those of Spanish, American, Chinese, Europeans, and other ethnic groups from other countries. Mixed-race individuals are known as Filipino mestizo Many Filipinos use English in the public sphere, and also speak Filipino and other Philippine languages. Spanish was the official language in the Philippines during the Spanish colonial period from the 16th century to the late 19th century. The government continued to use it as one of the official languages until 1987. Ethnic identity.In the Philippines there are individuals of different languages, ethnic cultures, and ancestries. The majority of Present day Filipinos come from a group of Taiwanese aborigines who envolved into Malay people who populated a large part of Southeast Asia. Indigenous ethnic groups Bicolano.Main article: Bicolano people The Bicolanos originated in Bicol, Luzon. There are several Bicolano languages, of which there is a total of about 3.5 million speakers.[3] Their language is referred to as Bikol or Bicolano. Ibanag.Main article: Ibanag people

The Ibanags are an ethnic group numbering around half a million people, who inhabit the provinces of Cagayan, Isabela, and Nueva Vizcaya. Ilocano.Main article: Ilocano people The Ibanag, Ivatan, the Ilocano people are the inhabitants of the lowlands, and coastal areas of northern Luzon.Ilocano are also found in central Luzon, Metro Manila, and some towns in the Visayas, and Mindanao.There are about 8 million speakers of Ilocano, and most of these individuals are Christians. Ivatan.Main article: Ivatan people The Ivatan are predominant in the Batanes Islands of the Philippines. They have close cultural links with Taiwanese Aborigines. Kapampangan.Main article: Kapampangan people The Kapampangan or Capampagan (English: Pampangan; Spanish: Pampangueo or Pampango) people originate from the central plains of Luzon, starting from Bataan up to Nueva Ecija. The Kapampangan language is spoken by more than two million people. In the Spanish colonial era, Pampanga was known to be a source of valiant soldiers. There was a Kapampangan contingent in the colonial army who helped defend Manila against the Chinese Pirate Limahon. They also helped in battles against the Dutch, the English and Muslim raiders.[7]:3 Kapampangans, along with the Tagalogs, played a major role in the Philippine Revolution. Moro.Main articles: Moro people, Maguindanao, Maranao, Tausug people, Bajau, Yakan, Sangir, Illanun, and Banguingui The Moros comprise of various ethnolinguistic groups in southern, and western Mindanao who are the same as other Filipinos, but whose religion is Islam. The largest of these are the Tausug, the Maguindanao, the Maranao, the Samal, the Yakan, and the Banguingui. These ethnolinguistic groups are different in terms of culture, religion, and have been politically independent.[9] Muslim Filipinos have an independent justice, and education system based in Cotabato City. They form about 5% of the Philippine population,[10] making them the sixth largest ethnic group in the country. Pangasinense.Main article: Pangasinan people Pangasinense are the ninth largest Filipino ethnic group. They originated from the northwestern seaboard of Luzon.[11] Sambal.Main article: Sambal people

The Sambal are the inhabitants of the province of Zambales, and the city of Olongapo in the Philippines. Sambals currently make up a large proportion of the population in the municipalities of Zambales province north of Iba. Tagalog.Main article: Tagalog people The Tagalogs, the first settlers of Manila and its surrounding areas, are one of the most widespread groups of people in the Philippines.[12][12][12][13] The Tagalog language was chosen as an official language of the Philippines in the 1930s. Today, Filipino, a de facto version of Tagalog, is taught throughout the islands.[14] As of the 2000 census, there were about 21.5 million speakers of Tagalog in the Philippines, 23.8 million worldwide.[12][15] Visayan.Main articles: Visayans, Cebuano people, Hiligaynon people, and Waray people The term Visayans refer to several ethnolinguistic groups living in the Visayas region. Some of these individuals are also found in some parts of Mindanao. There are various Visayan languages spoken in the Central Philippine region. They include Cebuano, Ilonggo, and Waray-Waray.There are some ethnolinguistic groups that have languages which are classified as Visayan, but do not identify themselves as Visayan, such as the Tausug, which speak a Visayan language yet are predominantly Muslim. Some of these only use the Visayan identity to refer to those who are Christian.Ethnic groups include the Hiligaynon, Cebuano, Waray, Romblomanon, Masbateo, Karay-a, Aklanon, Cuyonon, etc. Chavacanos.Main articles: Zamboangueo, Cavite Chavacano People, Ermite Chavacano People, Ternate People, Cotabate Chavacano People, and Castellano Abakay People The Chavacanos are an ethnic group numbering around a million people, who inhabit the provinces and cities of Cavite(the Cacviteo Chabacano), Zamboanga City(Zamboangueo or Chavacano), Zamboanga Provinces(Zamboangueo), Ternate(Ternateo Chabacano), Ermita(Ermiteo Chabacano), Cotabato(Cotabate Chavacano), Davao(Castellano Abakay) and Malaysia(Zamboangueo). Tribal group.Main article: Tribal groups of the Philippines There are more than 100 highland, lowland, and coastland tribal groups in the Philippines. These include: Badjao.The Badjao are found in the Sulu Archipelago. Igorot

The Igorot (Bontoc, Ibaloi, Ifugao, Isneg, Kalinga, Kankana-ey,Kalanguya), live in the highlands of Luzon. They are primarily located in the Cordillera Administrative Region. Ilongots The Ilongot are a headhunting ethnic group found in the Caraballo Mountains. Lumad-The Lumad of Mindanao includes several tribes such as the Manobo, the Tasaday, the Mamanwa, the Mandaya, and the Kalagan. They primarily inhabit the eastern parts of Mindanao such as the Caraga, and Davao Regions. Mangyan-The Mangyan are found in Mindoro. Negrito groups-The Negrito, Aeta, Batak, and Mamanwa live in remote areas throughout the islands. Palawan Tribes-The tribes of Palawan are a diverse group of tribes primarily located in the island of Palawan and its outlying islands. These tribal groups are widely distributed to the long strip of mainland island literally traversing Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.Palawan is home to many indigenous peoples whose origins date back thousands of centuries. Pre-historic discoveries reveal how abundant cultural life in Palawan survived before foreign occupiers and colonizers reached the Philippine archipelago.Today, Palawan is making its best to preserve and conserve the richness of its cultural groups. The provincial government strives to support the groups of indigenous peoples of Palawan. Batak-The Batak is a group of indigenous Filipino people that resides in the northeast portion of Palawan. Palawan-The Palawans are tribal people found in Southern Palawan particularly Quezon, Palawan. Kagayanen-The Kagayanen are from the municipality of Cagayancillo in Palawan province. There are about 36,000 Kagayanen in the Philippines. Molbog-The Molbog (referred to in the literature as Molebugan or Molebuganon) are concentrated in Balabak island and are also found in other islands of the coast of Palawan as far north as Panakan. The word Malubog means "murky or turbid water". The Molbog are probably a migrant people from nearby North Borneo. Judging from their dialect and some socio-cultural practices, they seem to be related to the Orang Tidung or Tirum (Camucone in Spanish), an Islamized indigenous group native to the northeast coast of Sabah. However, some Sama words (of the Jama Mapun variant) and Tausug words are found in the Molbog dialect. This plus a few characteristics of their socio-cultural life style distinguish them from the Orang Tidung. Molbog livelihood includes subsistence farming,

fishing and occasional barter trading with the Sulu Bangsa Moro and nearby Sabah market centers. In the past, both the Molbog and the Palawanon Muslims were ruled by Sulu datus, thus forming the outer political periphery of the Sulu Sultanate. Intermarriage between Tausug and the Molbog hastened the Islamization of the Molbog. The offsprings of these intermarriages are known as kolibugan or "half-breed". Tagbanwa The Tagbanwas are found in the western and eastern coastal areas of central Palawan. Their name means "people of the world". They are concentrated in the municipalities of Aborlan, Quezon and the City of Puerto Princesa. Two other ethnic groups called "Tagbanwa" (i.e. the Central Tagbanwa and the Calamian Tagbanwa) are from a different family of languages and should not be confused the Tagnbanwas discussed here. These are found Coron Island, Northern Palawan, Busuanga Island and the Baras coast. The Central Tagbanwa language is dying out as the younger generations are learning Cuyonon and Tagalog.The Tagbanwas speak the Tagbanwa language and has several sub-dialects. They are able to comprehend Tagalog, and, depending on their proximity to neighboring groups, Batak, Cuyonen and Calamian languages. They usually dress like the non-tribal lowlanders. However, elder men prefer to wear G-string while tilling or fishing. Houses are built from available forest materials. Bamboo and wood are used for the house's frame anahaw leaves are used to create walls and the roof and bamboo slats are used as flooring. Their basic social unit is the nuclear family which is composed of a married couple and their children. Taaw't Bato The Taaw't Batos' name means "people of the rock". They are not actually a separate language or ethinic group, but rather a small community of traditional S.W. Palawanos who happen to reside in the crater of an extinct volcano during certain seasons of the year, in houses built on raised floors inside caves though others have set their homes on the open slopes. They are found in the Singnapan Basin, a valley bounded by Mount Mantalingajan on the east and the coast on the west. North of them is the municipality of Quezon and to the South are the still unexplored regions of Palawan. As of 1987, their population was about 198.Note that the common-seen spelling "Tau't Bato" or "Tau't Batu" is a misspelling based on the Tagalog word for "human" (tao). The Palawano word is "taaw."The men of the tribe wear G-strings while the women cover their lower bodies with bark or cloth that is made into a skirt. The upper half is left exposed although some now wear blouses that are bought from the market.The people practice agriculture with cassava as the major source of carbohydrates. They also plant sweet potatoes, sugarcane, malunggay (Moringa oleifera), garlic, pepper, string beans, squash, tomatoes and pineapples. Others practice fishing, hunting and industrial arts.Their social organizations are based on family (kin ties), band (type of substinence activity) and settlement (geographic location).

Tumandok The Tumandok people are an indigenous group who live between Capiz and Lambunao on Panay island. They are the only Visayan group to have fully retained their preHispanic way of life and customs into the modern day, mostly due to their isolation in the mountainous interior of Panay. Non-indigenous ethnic groups

The Philippine Statistics Department does not account for the racial background or ancestry of an individual. The official number of all types of Filipino mestizos who reside inside and outside of the Philippines remains unknown.

Hispanic.See also: Filipinos of Spanish descent and Mexican settlement in the Philippines Filipinos of Hispanic ancestry form a minority in the Philippine population. Their official population is unknown. Most of these are descendants of the Spanish and Mexican settlers who settled in the islands during the Spanish colonial period. Most were of either pure Spanish ancestry or Amerindian-Spanish ancestry (The term 'Mestizo' originated in Latin America). The first groups of Hispanics sailed in 1565 with Miguel Lpez de Legazpi from New Spain, in what is now Jalisco state, Mexico to conquer the Philippines islands. Chinese.Main article: Chinese Filipino Filipinos of Chinese ancestry form a minority in the Philippine population. Most migrations of Chinese to the Philippines started even before the Spanish colonial period, when foreign trade with other countries were opened to the Philippines. The ethnically Chinese Filipinos comprise 1.3% (1.1 million) of the population. American.Main article: Filipinos of American descent Filipinos of American ancestry form a minority in the Philippine population. Some of these multiracial individuals are descended from Americans who settled in the Philippines during the United States colonial period, and others from tourists who have settled in the Philippines in the contemporary period. As of April 2009, the U.S, State Department estimated that there are an estimated four million Americans of Philippine ancestry in the United States, and more than 250,000 American citizens in the Philippines. Arab.Main article: Filipinos of Arab descent Arabs form a minority in the Philippine population. Their official population is unknown.[citation needed]

Indian.Main article: Filipinos of Indian descent Indians form a minority in the Philippine population with an estimated population of 38,000 people, the majority settling in Manila. Most of them belong to either Sindhi or Punjabi ethnic groups, and are largely businessmen and traders. A smaller population of Indians belonging to the Marathi ethnic group form part of the clergy of Roman Catholic dioceses in the country.[27][28] Japanese.Main article: Filipinos of Japanese descent People of Japanese descent form a minority in the Philippine population. According to the Ministry of Foreign affairs of Japan, there are 12,913 Japanese nationals residing in the Philippines as of October 2005.However, some estimates put the number of Japanese residing in the Philippines at around 120,000. Jewish.Main article: Jews in the Philippines Jews form a minority in the Philippine population. Their official population is unknown. Korean.Main article: Koreans in the Philippines As of 2007, approximately 72,000 Koreans are living in the Philippines. Most of them are transient students and expatriates. Most are tourists or students studying in the Philippines. Other Other ethnic groups include various European ethnicities, Brazilian, Australian, New Zealander, Indonesian, Malaysian, Thai, Vietnamese, and other ethnic groups from other countries. Wedding customs in the philippines Traditional marriage customs in the Philippines and Filipino wedding practices pertain to the characteristics of marriage and wedding traditions established and adhered to by Filipino men and women in the Philippines after a period of courtship and engagement. These traditions extend to other countries around the world where Filipino communities exist. Kasalan is the Filipino word for "wedding"[1], while its root word kasal means "marriage".[2] The present-day character of marriages and weddings in the Philippines were primarily influenced by the permutation of native, Christian, Catholic, Protestant, Spanish[1], and Americanmodels. Historical overview A typical ancient traditional Filipino wedding, during precolonial times, is held for three days and was officiated by

a babaylan, a tribal priest or priestess. The house of the babaylan was the ceremonial center for the nuptial. On the first day, the couple was brought to the priest's home, where the babaylan blesses them, while their hands are joined over a container of uncooked rice. On the third day, the priest would prick their chests to draw a small amount of blood, which will be placed on a container to be mixed with water. After announcing their love for each other for three times, they were fed by the priest with cooked rice coming from a single container. Afterwards, they were to drink the water that was mixed with their blood. The priest proclaimed that they are officially wed after their necks and hands were bound by a cord or ,sometimes, once their long hairs had been entwined together. In lieu of the babaylan, the datu or a wise elder may also officiate a pre-colonial Filipino wedding.[4] After the pre-colonial wedding ceremony, while at the justmarried couple's residence, a series of giving-of-gifts ritual was also done to counter the negative responses of the bride if asked to enter her new home, if she refuses to go up the stairs of the dwelling, if she denies to participate in the marriage banquet, or even to go into her new bedroom, a room she would be sharing with her spouse. Spanish colonialism brought changes to these marriage rituals because of the teachings and conversion efforts of Spanish missionaries, which occurred as early as the 18th century. As a result, the majority of current-day Filipino weddings became predominantly Christian or Catholic[4] in character, which is also because of the mostly Catholic population, although indigenous traditions still exist today in other regions of the Philippines.[4] Parts of Filipino wedding ceremonies have become faithcentered and God-centered, which also highlights the concept that the joining of two individuals is a "life long commitment" of loving and caring.In general, the marriage itself does not only signify the union of two persons, but also the fusion of two families, and the unification two clans. Requirements The following are the legal requirements that must be met in order to marry in the Philippines. To be specific, the exact wordings as stated in Philippine marriage law are presented below:

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Legal capacity of the contracting parties who must be a male and a female, 18 years old and above without any impediment to get married.[6][7] Consent freely given in the presence of the solemnizing officer. Authority of the solemnizing officer (only incumbent member of the judiciary; priest, rabbi, imam, or minister of any church or religious sect duly authorized by his church or religious sect and registered with the civil registrar general; ship captain or airplane

chief, military commander of a unit to which a chaplain is assigned, in the absence of the latter, during a military operation only in marriages at the point of death; and consulgeneral, consul or vice-consul only between Filipino citizens abroad are authorized by law to solemnize marriage). Marriage law in the Philippines also requires couples to attend a seminar on family planning before the wedding day in order to become responsible family life and parenthood. The seminar is normally conducted at a city hall or a municipal council. Some officiating ministers or churches require the couple to present a certificate of no marriage record (CENOMAR), on top of or together with the marriage license and the authority of the solemnizing officer. The CENOMAR can be secured from the National Statistics Office or its designated offices and branches. Marriage proposal The traditional marriage proposal in the Philippines takes the form of the pamanhikan[3] or pamamanhikan or the "parental marriage proposal", a formal way of asking the parents of the Filipino woman for her hand. In this custom, the would-be groom and his father and mother go to the would-bride's home. Gifts of food or other items are brought by the proposing family. Once the proposal has been accepted, other matters discussed during this meeting include the wedding plan, the date of the wedding, the budget for the wedding, and the list of guests. The expenses for the wedding are generally shouldered by the family of the groom. Wedding announcement After the pamamanhikan, the couple performs the paalam or "wedding announcement visitations". In this custom, the couple goes to the homes of relatives to inform the latter of their status as a couple and the schedule of their nuptial. It is also during this visits when the couple personally delivers their wedding invitations. Wedding date and invitation The typical Filipino wedding invitation contains the date and venue for the wedding ceremony and for the wedding reception, as well as the names and roles of the principal sponsors of the bride. Weddings in the Philippines are commonly held during the month of June. Ceremonial protocol Wedding attire

A Filipino groom wearing a collarless version of theBarong Tagalog. Bride's garment The Filipino bride's attire is typically made of a custommade white wedding gown. This is from the American influence of dressing the woman on her wedding day. Groom's apparel The Filipino groom's clothing is the Barong Tagalog, a formal and traditional transparent, embroidered and buttonup shirt made from jusi (also spelled as husi) fabric made from pineapple fibers.This formal Filipino male's apparel is worn untucked with a white T-shirt beneath, and over a black pair of pants. Wedding ceremony Generally, the wedding ceremony proper in the Philippines includes the celebration of a one-hour long mass. The Filipino groom arrives one hour earlier than the Filipina bride for the purpose of receiving wedding guests at the church. The bride will arrive later onboard a wedding car, then gets off the vehicle to meet her waiting groom. The groom could be waiting with his parents. Afterwards, the groom and the bride performs the bridal procession or the wedding march. During the nuptial, the bride holds an heirloom rosary along with her traditional bridal bouquet. Ceremonial sponsors, witnesses, and participants The principal wedding sponsors also known as special sponsors, primary sponsors, counselors, or witnesses[6] of the marriage ceremony chosen by the would-be spouses normally includes a multiple set of pairs of godparents (typically a total of 12 individual godparents composed of 6 godmothers or ninang, and 6 godfathers or ninong[5]). Chosen secondary sponsors are made up of the bridesmaids, groomsmen, and 3 more pairs of wedding attendants. The wedding attendants are responsible for the special parts of lighting the wedding candles, placing the veil and the cords on the couple being wed. Other official ceremonial participants are children, usually males, with the role of being the coin bearer and the ring bearer. [edit]Ceremonial paraphernalia Ceremonial paraphernalia in Filipino weddings include the wedding rings, the wedding arrhae, the wedding candles, the wedding veils, and the wedding cord.[1][2] The ring bearer acts as the holder and keeper of the rings until the exchanging of rings is performed, while the coin bearer acts as the holder and keeper of the arrhae until it is offered and given by the groom to his bride.[2] Among the secondary sponsors or wedding attendants, three pairs each pair consists of a male and female secondary sponsors are chosen to function as

lighters of the wedding candles, handlers of the wedding veils, and placers of the wedding cord. Wedding rings and the arrhae After the exchange of wedding rings by the couple, the groom gives the wedding arrhae to his bride. The arrhae is a symbol of his "monetary gift" to the bride because it is composed of 13 pieces of gold, or silver, coins, a "pledge" that the groom is devoted to the welfare and well-being of his wife and future offspring. Both rings and arrhae are blessed first by the priest during the wedding. Wedding candles The lighters of the wedding candles, known as the candle sponsors, light the pair of candles, one on each side of the couple. For Christians, this embodies the presence of God in the marital union.Many weddings add the ritual of the "unity candle" which signifies the joining of their two families. The couple takes the two lighted candles and together lights a single candle. For Christians, lighting this single candle symbolizes the invocation of Jesus Christ into their life as a married couple.The use of the unity candle is rooted in Protestant and American culture. Wedding veils After the ritual of lighting candles, a pair of secondary sponsors known as the veil sponsors will pin the veil(s) on the couple. Two forms of this tradition exist, with either one long, white-coloured veil draped over the shoulder of the groom and above the bride's head, or pinning two separate veils, one on the groom's shoulder and the other on the bride. The veiling ritual signifies the clothing of two individuals who have become one due to the ceremony of marriage. Wedding cord After the veiling ritual, the pair of secondary sponsors, known as the cord sponsors, will then drape a cord over the shoulders of the groom and the bride. This decorative cord is called the yugal and is customarily shaped or looped to form the figure 8 (or alternately, the infinity sign), to symbolise "everlasting fidelity".[1][2] Each loop of the cord is placed around the invidual neck-and-shoulder area of the bride and the groom. Apart from silk, other popular materials are used to make the wedding cord such as a string of flowers, links of coins, or a cord designed like a long rosary. Wedding reception During the wedding reception, it is typical to release a pair of white male and female doves, symbolising marital harmony and peace.[1] These are placed in a cage or

receptacle, which can be opened by pulling ribbons or cords or manually opened and released by the couple themselves. After their release from their cage[1], the person who catches them may take them home to rear as pets. Tossing the bouquet is for the most part uncommon for the bride to do though it is increasingly being observed by younger couples. Instead, the bride traditionally offers it at a side altar or image of either the Virgin Mary, a patron saint, or leaves it at the grave of a significant deceased relative. Filipino Muslim wedding. A wedding dance performed by a Yakan couple from Mindanao. Filipino Muslims in the Mindanao region of the Philippines commonly practice pre-arranged marriages and betrothal. These marital discussions involve the agreement on the dowry.[11] The Tausog people's wedding include the pangalay, a celebration or announcement performed by means of the playing of percussion instruments like as thegabbang, the kulintang, and the agong. Included in the wedding ceremony that is officiated by an Imam are readings taken from the Qur'an and the placement of the groom's fingerprint on the forehead of the bride. Same sex marriage.Main article: Same-sex marriage in the Philippines Marriage between couples of the same sex is currently not possible under the laws of the Philippines because, according to the Filipino Family Code, both family and marriage are considered as heterosexual units. The legal concept of a family in the Philippines does not incorporate homosexual relationships. Furthermore, finding that a party to the marital union is either homosexual or lesbian is a ground for annulment of the marriage and legal separation in the Philippines, which leads to the severance of the homosexual individual's spousal inheritance, claims to any conjugal property, and the custody of offspring. Wedding superstitions Filipinos have also developed superstitions that are related to marriage and weddings. Pre-colonial Filipino superstitions include the groom or the bride should avoid traveling before the nuptial to prevent accidents from happening, the bride must not wear pearls as these are similar to tears[3], performing a procession composed of men holding bolo knives and musicians playing agongs to drive away evil spirits. This march was also carried out after the wedding ceremony until the newly-wed couple reaches their abode. The purpose of this procession is similar to the current practice of breaking

plates during the wedding reception, in order to shoo away bad luck. During Spanish colonization, the Spaniards introduced new superstitions, such as the avoidance of activities that may cause broken marriages or sadness and regret. These include not wearing wedding gowns in advance, not wearing garments that are colored black,not offering sharp objects as gifts. Other Filipino beliefs include that typhoons occurring on wedding days may bring bad fortune; that after the wedding ceremony the bride should walk ahead of her husband or step on his foot to prevent being dominated by the male spouse; that an extinguished candle during the ceremony served as an omen that the groom or the bride will die soon (depending on which candle was smothered by the wind, the one at the groom's side or the bride's side)[3]; and that an accidentally dropped wedding ring, wedding veil, or wedding arrhae will cause marital misery. Superstitious beliefs that provide good fortune include showering the married couple with uncooked rice because this wishes them a prosperous life together; the groom's arrival prior to his bride's coming at the wedding venue also diminishes dire fate. In addition, a single woman who will follow the footsteps of a newly-married couple may enhance her opportunity to become a bride herself. Attire Baro-ng Tagalog Brides in the Philippines usually wear a white dress, similar to those seen in the West. Nila took one from the Philippines for her wedding and also wore a white orchid in her hair. Grooms and other male guests usually wear a traditional white Baro ng Tagalog with black trousers. The baro is a thin silky embroidered shirt which is worn over a white tee-shirt. James wore a white jussi Barong Tagalog embroidered with black thread, plus a special black tie with a pearl pin, and a black & white beaded necklace, black trousers and black shoes. Music James and Nila chose the following music and songs for their wedding:

All wonderful songs of course, but Western. Since James and Nila are a marriage of East and West, they included several Eastern elements. Filipino weddings have some beautiful traditions that James and Nila incorporated into their wedding, including coins, rope and candles. (Props for a conjuring trick? Read on...) Bible Reading Having decided on a poetic version of a Bible passage, all was now set for the start of the Ceremony. The Ceremony The Couple enter the chapel with the Sponsors and the Pastor announces the start of the wedding. Blessing of the Arrhae (Arras) The coins are blessed and exchanged. Prayers for Couple's Veil Veil Sponsors place a white veil over the bride's head and the groom's shoulders. The pastor explains the importance of the veil and offers a prayer. Prayers for Couple's Cord Cord Sponsors drape a yugal in a figure-eight shape over the couple's shoulders, rather like a lasso but with the reverence given to a rosary. The figure-eight is like the infinity symbol, meaning everlasting love. Wedding Vows and Wedding Ring Ceremony It is difficult to imagine a more important part of the wedding than this. Prayers for Candles Candles are more than just lovely ornaments; they add a bright and warm ambience to any situation. Whether scented with incense or packed with dust to emit sparks when lit, candles are alive. Benediction The final blessing of the couple and the congregation. Marriage Pronouncement, Wedding Kiss, and Recession A contractual kiss. What better way is there to end the ceremony!

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Elsa's Wedding Procession to the Chapel from 'Lohengrin' by Richard Wagner Ebb Tide Original version sung by Bobby Hatfield of the Righteous Brothers Unchained Melody Original version sung by Bobby Hatfield of the Righteous Brothers Lady Written by Lionel Ritchie, sung by Kenny Rodgers

The Philippines has fabulous customs, especially when it comes to weddings, using a mix of earlier Filipino traditions and later Latin customs introduced by their colonial masters. The weddings reflect the strong traditions of family - and extended family. Therefore Filipino wedding ceremonies typically involve many people and the wedding rituals 'speak' to the couple personally. Types of Weddings There are basically four major types of wedding ceremonies, the most popular would be the religious and civil ceremonies. In this section, we will give you some ideas on each of the wedding types to help you decide on which type of wedding you want for your own. Religious Weddings

For the non-traditional wedding ceremonies, as the name implies, it is non-traditional, non-conventional. It pretty much gives you the freedom and be creative. It can be officiated by a priest, an officiant, or any person who is qualified to marry you. Types Of Wedding Ceremonies

There are so many types or kinds of wedding ceremonies. It differs from religious views, traditional inheritance and the community we live in. people from all religions, countries, and cultures have different marriage ceremonies and traditions.Below, you will read and know different types and styles of wedding ceremony. Double Wedding

Religious is the most common type of wedding. Traditionally, the church is the most popular venue. The ceremony is presided over by a priest, a rabbi, or a minister. Choosing the venue can be a bit of a problem if the bride and the groom came from different faiths. In some cases, however, the churches work together now to help couples of different faith to marry. There are churches that will even allo you to have two officiates marry you at the same time. Civil Weddings

A double wedding is when two wedding parties get married in the same ceremony. Usually this happens when two siblings are both getting married and decide to share the ceremony with each other. This is often done to share expenses or because a large family may have trouble getting together for two separate occasions that may be close together. Military Wedding A military wedding is a wedding that is conducted by a military chaplain. A military wedding usually takes place on a military base, in a theater of war, or under wartime circumstances. Although they sometimes are, both the groom and bride do not have to be members of the military to have a military wedding ceremony. Civil Wedding Ceremony A civil ceremony is a wedding performed by an elected or appointed government official (like a mayor, justice of the peace, judge, or other leader). Most civil ceremonies take place in public places like town halls or possibly even inside judges chambers. Online Wedding Online weddings can refer to two different things. Online weddings are where the bride and groom cannot physically be in the same place so the legal documents are taken care of ahead of time and the ceremony is carried out via video over the internet. Standard weddings that are broadcast online are also sometimes referred to as an online wedding. Mixed Wedding

The civil wedding ceremony is the type of ceremony officiated by the Justice of the Peace, a judge, the mayor or governor, or a Marriage Commissionaire. The ceremony Is done outside of the church. Officiants are people appointed by the government and were given authority to officiate marriages. The only difference that a civil wedding and a religious wedding have is the venue. Civil weddings cannot be heldinside the church but can be as romantic and extravagant as a religious wedding ceremony. Military Weddings This wedding ceremony normally takes place in the military chapel yet; doing the ceremony elsewhere is also possible. You can have a full military wedding ceremony if your partner is in the military or is a retired officer of the military. In most cases, the officers form an arch of sabers or arch of swords as the couple walk through on their exit after the ceremony. The military person also dressed in proper military uniform. You can also arrange to have two archs of sabers, one inside the church and one outside. Guests in a military wedding normally dress in traditional attire, usually formal. Non-traditional

A mixed wedding usually refers to two people who have two different religions getting married. A mixed wedding is

most often presided over by two different people with a clergy person from each of the couples faiths leads different portions of the ceremony. At some times in history or in some cultures the term mixed wedding has also meant people of different races becoming legally married. Church Wedding A church wedding refers to any marriage ceremony that takes place in a church. Most church weddings are religious by nature and come with certain things you can and cannot do during the ceremony. These ceremonies are presided over by a religious leader, usually from the church the ceremony is in, and adhere to a certain religions beliefs. Destination Wedding Most weddings happen in the hometown of either the bride or groom, or both. If the engaged couple and/or a majority of the guests attend a ceremony out of the area, whether it is at an extravagant site or not, it is considered a destination wedding. Wedding Expenses: Who Pays for What?

The Ceremony includes the venue of the wedding whether in a church, synagogue or garden, the organist, and everything related to the wedding ceremony are paid by the bride and her family. The groom pays for the marriage license and the officiants fee. Clothes The Bridal Gown, veil, accessories, trousseau and lingerie is paid by the bride and her family. The Groom and his family pay for the grooms outfit. For the entourage, the clothes of the female members of the entourage are sometimes paid by the couple. All other attendants pay for their own clothes. Flowers The Bride and her family pay for the flower arrangements for the church, the reception, and the bouquets and corsages for the bridesmaids and flower girls. The bridal bouquet, going-away corsage, boutonnieres for men, and corsages for mothers and grandmothers are paid by the groom and family. Wedding Calendar

One of the first steps in planning your wedding is determining your budget. The Wedding Budget is, most of the time, on top of the list of wedding worries since it basically determines the type of wedding you will have. In general, simple and informal weddings are a lot cheaper. If you want a really extravagant wedding, you have to be prepared to pay more. Setting up a Wedding Budget will help you in controlling the amount of money you spend on your wedding. Not documenting your budget may lead you to spending more than you planned or worse, more than what you can afford. One of the major factors that determine your wedding cost is the number of guests you invite. It will be ideal to just invite and share the special day with those who are close to your heart. In general, around 40% of the Wedding Budget is spent on the caterer (food, drinks, and cake), 14% on clothing, 10% on entertainment, 8% on flowers, 7% on video and photography, 4% on the reception, 4% on gifts, 3% on invitation and other printed materials, 2% on transportation, and 8% on miscellaneous items. When estimating your budget, be sure to consider all costs. The following is a list of the traditional wedding costs to guide you in determining your budget to help you figure out what you want and what you can afford. The Ceremony

Preparing for your wedding can be time consuming and tedious. It only happens once in a lifetime so you would want to cover all details. Some of us even have the vision of their dream wedding since they were still young. So, for you to achieve your dream wedding, you better plan ahead. Based on the experience of most of the people I know, one year is the ideal preparation time for a dream wedding. Some are able to achieve it in six months or less but that requires a lot of focus and assistance from friends and relatives. Here, we try to make an action plan to help you prepare for the wedding of your dreams. Six or More Months Before:

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Think about the type and date of your wedding. If you want to have beach or garden wedding, it is ideal to hold it in December or during the summer so that you are most likely sure that the weather will be favorable. Then decide on the wedding date and theme. Set the budget and your priorities. Make a table of expenses, separating the musts and the wants. Announce the engagement to family and friends. Arrange for a gathering for the bride and the grooms family. Make your guest list. The number of guests will have an impact on your choice of venue and your budget so better keep that in mind while making your list. Research on possible suppliers. A wedding planner may help you in this one. The web is also

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a good source of information. Choose your top choices and pay them a visit before you make a decision. Reserve your wedding ceremony and reception venue. Some venues may require you to reserve at least a year before your wedding date. Select a designer for your dress, book a caterer, photographer, band or ensemble, and stylist. Some really popular suppliers may have already been booked months before the wedding date so either make sure you have other alternatives or you book ahead of time. Plan and book your honeymoon. Most airlines offer cheaper rates when you book ahead so better take that advantage and save on cost. Select your officiant. Plan your new home. Where will you stay after the wedding? Do you already have a house? This is something important that you have to consider when setting up your wedding budget.

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Then:Most couples offered the brides bouquet to favorite Saints, the Virgin Mary or the some departed love ones grave. Now:The Western bouquet toss prevails, although a number of brides deviate from this practice to follow the above-mentioned tradition.

The wedding rings, bible and the arrhae

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A wedding is the ceremony in which two people are united in marriage or a similar institution. Wedding traditions and customs vary greatly between cultures,ethnic groups, religions, countries, and social classes. Most wedding ceremonies involve an exchange of wedding vows by the couple, presentation of a gift (offering, ring(s), symbolic item, flowers, money), and a public proclamation of marriage by an authority figure or leader. Special wedding garments are often worn, and the ceremony is sometimes followed by a wedding reception. Music, poetry, prayers or readings from Scripture or literature are also optionally incorporated into the ceremony. Then and Now: Contemporary Filipino Weddings The following are some common practices and traditions still practiced by couples in the Philippines: The groom showing respect to the father of the bride

Then:When it comes to Catholic wedding ceremonies, expect the usual full mass to run about an hour or two. (For more information read The Guide To Catholic Wedding Programs) Now:Expect the mass still. Then:You had the ring bearer carry the rings, and the coin bearer carry the arrhae. The arrhae consisted of 13 pieces of either gold or silver coins that symbolized the grooms promise to take care of his wife and children. Now:The practice is optional, but most couples still follow this tradition. Then:Filipino brides would go to their favorite seamstress or designer for custom-made wedding dresses. Now:Some brides save money by simply purchasing wedding dresses from Divisoria and ready-made gowns from bridal boutiques.

Filipino Wedding Attire The barong tagalog remains a staple in Filipino weddings. The barong is an embroidered sheer formal shirt worn by both men and women in the Philippines. An undershirt is usually worn with the untucked barong Boys wearing the traditional barong tagalog The filipino bride and groom after the wedding A traditional filipina dress called maria clara The traditional womens attire, called the barot saya, rarely accompanies the barong during wedding ceremonies, since most brides today prefer Western wedding dresses over traditional garb. For brides who prefer to follow tradition, there are some contemporary Filipino designers who create beautiful barot saya inspired wedding gowns. SOUTHERN PHILIPPINES A Filipino Muslim Royal Wedding in Southern Philippines Photos by HADER GLANG Article by JOHN L. SHINN III L.A. Zamboanga Times

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Then:The groom and the grooms family shoulder all the wedding expenses. Now:Although there are some couples who still follow the above-mentioned tradition, a number of modern couples now believe in footing the bill themselves using their hard-earned savings. Then:The one who pays most of the wedding bills has the final say on the guest list. Now:Grooms, brides and their parents tend to figure out the guest list together. Then:Catholic brides carried an heirloom rosary with their bridal bouquets. Now:This old practice is being revived by a new wave of modern brides intent on paying homage to their Catholic beliefs and upbringing.

Long before the arrival of the Spaniards, Chinese and other Westerners to the 1,107-island archipelago known as the Philippines, there existed the "Islamic Empire of Sulu" under the rule of the Sultan (and his Royal Family) of the Sultanate of Sulu in what was then called the Sulu Archipelago. The Islamic Empire of Sulu --- or the "Sulu Empire" for short --- was located in what is now known as the Sulu group of islands in Southern Philippines --- not far from the island of North Borneo --- where for centuries a Filipino Muslim tribe known as the Taosugs fiercely defended their people, religion, culture. tradition and heritage by rejecting any influences from the outside, Western world. Even the discovery of the Philippine Islands in March 16, 1521 by Spanish explorer Ferdinand Magellan --- and the influx of foreign influences that followed it --- did not really affect nor influenced the Taosug culture that much. Today, the Taosug people are proud of their heritage, culture and especially their religious beliefs as Filipino Muslims. In these modern times, many of the tribe's old ways and traditions are still being practiced and stricly observed. And it makes them even prouder that they were able to preserve much of it despite the brutal wars waged against them in the early days by the Spaniards during the Galleon Trade, the Americans at the turn of the century, the Japanese during World War II --- and now even by their own government in Manila. But amid all the chaos brought about by three decades of civil unrest in Sulu, the Taosug people of Southern Philippines still live by --- and stricly observe --- the Taosug tribe's centuries old ways, beliefs and traditions. While Westerners succeeded in wiping out entire nations by killing its people and destroying their culture and substituting it with their own by force--the Taosug tribe in Southern Philippines are proud --- as Filipino Muslims --- that they valiantly protected and defended their culture and history from any outside influences for centuries now. The Muamar Salamaddin Tulawie Nurwiza Indanan Sahidulla wedding in Jolo last year --which was done in the same tradition as their forebearers

did centuries ago --- is a living testament to the Taosug tribe's rich culture and history. The 28-year-old groom Muamar Salamaddin Tulawie, and the 23-yearold brideNurwiza Indanan Sahidulla, in a modernized Tausug wedding ensemble. The bride is wearing a 24-karat golden veil. The bride performs the Pangalay, a traditional Tausug wedding dance. The groom kisses the hand of his father-in-law during the wedding. The couple sharing the grooms traditional food of eggs, crabs, fried chicken, Tausugcake and rice given to the bride. A traditional union: It is one of a celebration of love and life. Prior to the wedding, the bride performs a traditional Tausug bath.The bride. Folklore 1.Diwata are the protectors of trees, mountains, and the natural world in Filipino folklore. Known well before the Spanish colonization, many diwata have their origing in Indian, Malay, or Javanese folklore, brought to the Philippines via Hinduism or Islam, and many diwata have their counterparts in these other regions. Diwata are often thought of as fairies, or elfs, but in reality, they are Gods and Goddesses of the natural world. Often living in the trees or mountains that they protect, they are normally believed to be beautiful, and ageless or timeless. Powerful creatures, diwata are often generous and kind when their charges, the specific tree or mountain, are respected, however they can quickly become vindictive and dangerous should one, for example, cut down a tree, or disobey them. Most early Filipino folktales revolve around a specific diwata, such as the numerous Maria Makiling tales, and they always contain a lesson or moral for those who hear the tale. Diwata were an integral part of the daily life of early Filipinos. Trees, such as the balete, are even to this day, regarded with caution, since they are protected, and nearly every mountain in the country has its own diwata protector. A curse brought on by disrespecting a diwata can last for many generations or centuries, and many of the curses cannot be countered by any form of kulam or magic.

2.The Tikbalang is a creature that inhabits the forests and jungles of Luzon. Similar in nature to the Kapre, it is much more malevolent in nature, luring travellers astray and tricking them into becoming lost. With the head and torso of a horse, and the body of a human, the Tikbalangs legs are often longer than its arms, with its knees reaching above its chest as it crouches awaiting its unwary victims. They are said to be the spirits of aborted fetuses that were possessed by demons. Tikbalangs can often tranform into human appearance, or can sometimes become invisible, further confusing their victims. Travelers are turned around in circles until they become hopelessly lost: Not a good situation in the thick forests and jungles. Defense against Tikbalangs: The most common and effective defense against a Tikbalang is to wear ones clothes inside-out. Ths can confuse the creature and it will leave you alone. Also said to be effective is simply asking the creature to let you pass unmolested, as they may simply want to be acknowledged as the ruler of the forest. Its mane is comprised of sharp spines. If a person is brave enough to jump on the Tikbalangs back and remove one of these spines, the creature becomes docile and is from then on that persons servant. 3.The Kapre is a creature, not necessarily dangerous, but mischievous, that travellers in the Philippines may encounter. It is a giant, approaching three meters tall, and very hairy, with dark brown skin. It lives in large trees, and smokes cigars. The smoke from the cigars can enchant those who venture near. More of a prankster than anything evil, the Kapre will spring upon those enchanted by his cigar, thus frightening them. Kapres can also play other tricks, such as making excessive wind blow through the trees, making their voices hear from far away, or disorienting travellers so that they quickly become lost. Though not normally associated with evil intent, some people believe that a Kapre, if angered, will skin a person alive. There are others who belive that Kapres have ben known to carry off women with whom they have become smitten. Many people have befriended Kapres, and the Kapre will offer protection to one whom he befriends. A Kapre has a strong, unpleasant smell, and there have been reports of enormous, humal-like, footprints found all over the Philippines. Closely related to the Sasquatch, or Bigfoot, the Kapres were named by the Spanish, who, upon encountering them, thought that they were Moors. 4.The Chinese in the Philippines believe that the positioning of objects surrounding them has an impact on their lives. This belief is embodied by the laws of Feng Shui, or Wind water: The balance between heaven and earth. Any object that is not aligned according to the rules of Feng Shui will impact ones livelihood, health and well

being. As albularyo healing and hilot practices are concerned with Qi, and balance, Feng Shui has become an integral part of Filipino folklore and tradition, often modified from its Chinese roots to serve peoples needs in the Philippines. Filipinos also have their own beliefs when it comes to building houses, etc. The Chinese presence in the islands existed long before the Spanish conquest, and many beliefs of Chinese origin persist to the present day. For example, many elderly people believe that building an annex or new addition to their house on the Eastern side will bring bad fortune to their family. Therefore, any additions to a house would be built on the North, South, or West facing sides. Prior to construction, however, they would consult with someone who is familiar with the Lunario, or Loupan in Chinese: a calendar book that lists auspicious times and dates for building. When building stairs, the number of steps must be an odd, rather than even, number (3, 5, or 7, depending on height). Doors should never be placed facing each other, or aligned together, especially the front and back entrances to the home. Toilets or bidets should not be installed in a position facing a main road. Furnishings in the house should also be positioned appropriately. Beds should never be positioned under a supporting beam, or blocking a doorway: Ignoring this rule will give the person sleeping in the bed nightmares. Sleeping with your head facing a post or pillar will also create nightmares, so beds should be positioned properly within the house. Trees and shrubbery around the house also impact Feng Shui. Planting a tree that bears fruit with black seeds beside a house, especially in front of a window, according to the tawas is an invitation for evil spirits to enter a dwelling. Though the practice of Feng Shui is highly complex, these are just a few examples to illustrate the concept, as modified by Filipino beliefs. 5.In Cebu, near the town of Argao, is Mount Lantoy. Mount Lantoys diwata, goddess protector, is a fairy named Maria Cacao. Maria Cacao was a generous spirit, offering to share her goods with the people of Argao. She also helped the townspeople in transporting their cacao crops to market. The area around Argao was noted for the large, bountiful cacao plantations on Mount Lantoy. She obtained these possessions by sailing to America in her golden ship, transporting the crops and returning with valuable possessions. Unfortunately, since her ship was so large, when leaving Argao, it often snagged on the bridge spanning the river. After the bridge was repeatedly damaged, the town sent the American engineer up on the mountain in order to ask

Maria Cacao to stop her voyages for a while, in order to build a new, taller bridge made of concrete. This would let her ship pass through without collapsing the bridge. She agreed, but when the new bridge was finished, she never appeared to the people of Argao again. The legend goes that she moved on to other towns, and, to this day, when a bridge in the Philippines collapses suddenly, without warning, it is from her ship passing through. 6.This happened a very long time ago in Mindoro. Some cloth vendors crossed over to Mindoro attempting to sell their wares. They planned to visit most of the barangays on the island. Upon landing, they visited the ecomendero and advised him of their plans. He didnt want them venturing into the jungles alone, so he sent with them a guide, armed with a rifle. The vendors were very grateful for the assistance. So, the small travelling party spent several days visiting various villages. Finally, starting to be weary and quite a distance from the next stop, they came across several Nipa houses in a small clearing. The family that lived there welcomed the travellers into their home and offered them a meal of rice and sinigang. The vendors accepted readily, as they were quite hungry. When their guide received his bowl of soup, he reached into his pocket for a calamansi, cutting it in half and squeezing the juice onto the fish in his bowl. The fish suddenly transformed into severed human fingers. The guide called to the vendors, Dont touch the soup! This is a family of aswangs! He then pointed the rifle at the family, who were marched back to town in order to be brought before the constabulary. Aswangs can transform into many shapes, deceiving those who may encounter them. They often appear to be ordinary townsfolk or can take the form of a beautiful woman. As they are afraid of garlic, the magical properties of calamansi can also reveal their presence. 7.The duwende is a folkloric creature that is often thought of as similar to a dwarf, goblin, troll, or elf. Small and mischievous, they often live in trees, under houses, or underground. They are a different creature than a Nuno sa Punso, and are often mistaken as such. The nuno is more mischievous and quite vindictive, whereas a duwende is often playful and harmless. Occasionally, they will take objects from their owners and may only return them if asked. They are active around the noon hour and at night. Duwende can protect a home from intruders if the human occupants treat them well, for instance, by leaving them offerings of food. They can, however, still cause trouble like their Nuno cousins. Duwendes are often disturbed by humans trampling about near their homes and can be vindictive if puposefully disturbed.

Defense against Duwende: Quite simply, avoid disturbing them. Many people will utter the saying, tabi-tabi po (Excuse me), when walking in an area where duwendes are thought to live. Duwendes are said to be attracted to obese women. An obese woman standing on a trail or road at night will reveal any nearby duwendes that come for a look. 8.The Tiyanak is a creature that has its origins in Mindanao, from the Malay migration. Indeed, the Indonesian city of Pontianak is named after the creature. The Tiyanak is a shape shifter, taking the form of a human baby. The Tiyanak lures its victim into the jungle by mimicry, imitating a babys cries. The victim hears these cries and is magically enchanted. When the victim goes to investigate, they either see a small child that suddenly sprouts fangs and sharp claws, immobilizing and killing the victim, or a dwarf in the shape of a tiny old bearded man that kills them. Some people report that before seeing the Tiyanak, they are captivated by a sweet, pleasant odor. After the Tiyanak is revealed, that odor turns to a foulsmelling death stench. Legend has it that the Tiyanak is the spirit of an unborn baby, out to get revenge. It is also rumored to be the spirit of an aborted fetus, or of a childs spirit in limbo, who died before baptism. There are certain people who believe that the Tiyanak is the child resulting from the union of a woman and her demon lover. Defense against the Tiyanak: Since a possible origin of the Tiyanak involves baptism, a rosary can prevent a victim from becoming enchanted. Garlic is also an effective protection, as it is with many other evil creatures. However, the best defense against the Tiyanak is to turn your clothes inside-out. The Tiyanak is surprised by this action, and the enchantment is broken, allowing enough time for the potential victim to escape. 9.The Nuno sa Punso is related to the duwende, yet it is far more vindictive and dangerous. Tiny, and appearing more like an elf with a long beard, the nuno may easily be trampled, however unaware, and, needless to say, it does not like being trodden upon. Living underground in an anthill or small mound, the nuno is known to curse those who disturb it. The nuno can also cause various physical maladies to appear, causing the victim great pain and suffering. Like their duwende cousins, they are most active around noon and at night. Nuno sa Punso is known to cause the following ailments, normally by spitting upon the victim: 1. 2. 3. Nasty skin rashes. Swelling of the feet or limbs Vomiting blood

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Painful urination Excessive hair growth (Remember it has a long beard!) where hair normally doesnt grow.

Children are the most common victims of nuno attacks, since they often play outside in fields, woods, and other areas where the nuno live, but may not be totally aware of their surroundings. Other victims commonly include those who have had too much to drink, stumbling over the nunos home or even urinating upon it (How would YOU feel if someone urinated on your house?). Because nuno sa punso are so easily annoyed or irritated, and can be so vindictive, it is often believed that in the case of mystery illnesses or difficult illnesses, a nunos curse is the real culprit. Defense against the nuno: Those cursed by a nuno nearly always require an albularyos services. The albularyo melts candle wax into a spoon or cup and the shape of the droplets will tell the albularyo the curse-afflicted area. Sometimes the nuno will be satisfied by an offering of food or a simple apology, and will remove the curse. Other times, more powerful magic from the albularyo will be required. The albularyo may also suggest catching and crushing the nuno, however this last method is for desperation, as the nunos family may come after the one who crushed their kin. The same saying used for duwendes, tabi-tabi po, will work with a nuno, should you be traversing an area where nunos live. If you inadvertantly disturb a nuno, an immediate offering or apology could help prevent a curse. PHILIPPINE TRADITIONAL COSTUMES Barong Tagalog The Barong Tagalog exhibits the loose, long lines of its Chinese sources, the airy tropical appearance of IndoMalay costume, the elongated effect of Hindu dressing, and the ornamental restraint of European men's clothing. The barong appears to have retained its essential look since it was first worn. Through the years, almost imperceptibly, the barong's round neck, straight long sleeves and mid-thigh hemline were ingeniously modified with collar, cuffs and side slits. Baro't Saya Like their menfolk, the female indigenes of the archipelago, gradually cover their upper torso with short, sleeved collarless blouses called baro, through the 400 years of colonization. And what was, since ancient times, an all-purpose brief wrap-around skirt--metamorphosed into the long skirts called saya. Interestingly the saya was generally fashioned out of opaque plaid or striped cotton and sinamay varieties, while the baro was rather stubbornly made quite persistently of sheer fabrics. Terno It has been called a masterpiece, a classic, a national treasure. Terno: from the Spanish word meaning "to

match." It was the handiwork of not just one couturier but a coming together of the innovations of many. 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. TAPIS It is strikingly akin to most basic female garments in the Southeast Asian world, and seems somewhere related to the Indian sari. The Filipino wrap-around skirt called tapis or patadyong may have emerged from environmental conditions and technical repertoires similar to those that produced the sarong and the sari. As the female counterpart to the loincloth, the tapis covered the genital area. Again, fertility may have been associated value - but in what precise ways? One can only guess. CAMISA DE CHINO At certain, likely fluid moments in the last four hundreds years, the naked torso of the indigenous man was gradually sheathed in a full skirt, exchanging half nudity for a collarless garment with long, cuffless sleeve. Many colonized indios discovered the clothing possibility in what was to be called, in Spanish, the Camisa. Maria Clara The Maria Clara gown is a traditional gown worn by women in the Philippines. This Filipino dress takes its name from Mara Clara, the mestiza protagonist of the national epic Noli Me Tangere, penned in 1890 by Filipino national hero Jos Rizal. It has been connected to the Maria Clara character because of her traits: delicate, feminine, self-assured, and with a sense of identity. The Maria Clara outfit is the only Philippine national attire that is named after a literary figure. Balintawak "A shortened skirt, the butterfly sleeves, the plaid textile, the low cut bodice, came together in the 1930s in the costume called Balintawak. It was worn during picnics and other jaunts into the countryside. Balintawak as "look" was deeply associated with Antipolo, a favorite summer destination for Manila dwellers. Mantones de Manila Among the galleons' precious cargoes were mantones de Manila, an elaboratelyfringed type of shawl of Chinese silk. Mantones de Manila were the rage in Spanish capitals. It was an indispensable mantle covering the shoulders, or a dona and senorita. Made in China, it was shipped to Manila for export to Spain. Many samples that found their way into Filipino wardrobes. And whether used as piano cover, table runner or antimacassar, the manton de Manila evoked a Castilian sense of luxury. Traje de Mestiza This century's two world wars book-ended, so to speak, a

frenzied phase in Philippine history. The nation emerged from a colony, became a part of a commonwealth and then moved on to become a republic - all within a span of forty years. It was the peak moment of Americana in the Philippines: movies, musicals, magazines! And the Manila Carnival was the centerstage for that stunning Filipino costume creation of the new century, the traje de mestiza. Pintados The pintados (painted ones), inhabitants of the Visayan islands as described by the first Spaniards to set eyes upon them, would use sharp metal instruments previously heated over fire. The Kankanay from Benguet used a small piece of wood called gisi, to which three iron points were attached WEDDING ATTIRE Bride The Filipino bride's attire is typically made of a custommade white wedding gown. This is from the American influence of dressing the woman on her wedding day Groom The Filipino groom's clothing is the Barong Tagalog, a formal and traditional transparent, embroidered and button-up shirt made from jusi (also spelled as husi) fabric made from pineapple fibers. This formal Filipino male's apparel is worn untucked with a white T-shirt beneath, and over a black pair of pants.