Christmas carols, a popular tradition in most Western countries, can be heard on the streets from All Saints Day (November 1st) or even earlier in the Philippines! Christmas songs and decorations, however, can be seen even earlier, many families starting to decorate even as early as September 1st.

From December 16th to 24th, Filipinos are known to participate in a 9-day event called Midnight Mass, where one party is held each night, and people have made it a tradition to attend as many as possible. Outside churches, too, the festive mood is especially strong, as vendors have taken it upon themselves to sell traditional Christmas treats called Puto Bumbong and Bibingka. As previously mentioned, religion is a huge part of Filipino culture, and them having the world's longest Christmas season just shows the extent to which the country values it.

4-Month Christmas Season (Video File)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p6pA_JNVT54

Though Lechon is similar to many other dishes of various Spanish speaking countries, there are some quite notable differences. Every country has their own special methods of cooking and seasoning that makes the final dish unique to them and them only.

The main reason, however, for tis being such a well known and loved is because of what it means to the people. To them, the dish symbolizes the closeness between communities and and the joy of spending time with friends and family. It gives them a sense of unity, and has easily found its place as a key part of Filipino traditions and culture.

Lechon (Video File)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d1HgbDeYGn0

Visita Iglesias is usually only practiced by devoted Catholics, as it is quite a bit of work. The tradition is to visit 7 different churches in a single day, most commonly on Maundy Friday or Good Friday. Especially devoted people are known to walk barefoot between these churches, and some even end up visiting anywhere from ten to fifteen churches, or more!

Though the majority of people prefer to drive around to save time and energy, they are no less respectful. Visiting Catholics from other countries are also encouraged to participate in Visita Iglesias, and even non-Catholics are welcome to watch or participate, under the condition that they are respectful.

Visita Iglesias during Holy Week (Video File)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vXkiW93nNy4

Though asking about money and living standards is absolutely unacceptable, it is quite common for people to discuss topics such as age, work, or education level. To them, these are the more personal topics that they are typically okay discussing. However, them being comfortable with such topics doesn't mean that there are no boundaries. As a whole, Filipinos are quite reluctant to talk about anything personal, so, understanding this, they are wary of venturing too deep. However, for people who my not know this, such as tourists or international friends and family, they may want to pay a bit more attention to their company's body language.

All Three Explained in One Video (Video File)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fTNeMiQebT8

Other things, such as public displays of anger, aggressive confrontational behavior, or yelling on front of your elders or superiors, are also considered extremely shameful. Raising your voice, too, can be thought to be disrespectful to those around you and a cause for shame.

Often, when shame or embarrassment is brought upon you, it is not just your own reputation that will be tarnished. You family, too, and potentially even your extended family, could be affected by this one mistake that you make. As previously mentioned, "Hiya" is considered a bad thing in Filipino culture, but when you look deeper, you'll soon realize that the negative emotions are only part of it. At the end of the day, it is a person's own determination and willingness to stay positive and honorable that allows them to truly honor the value.

All Three Explained in One Video (Video File)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fTNeMiQebT8

When people attend family or friends' gatherings, and reunite with people they haven't seen in a while, it is common for the first thing said after greetings to be a comment on the other's weight or overall physique. Now, these comments are not intended to be insulting or disrespectful in any way, If anything, they're meant to be teasing and affectionate, but for people who are not all that familiar with Filipino customs, it may come off as a bit rude.

Talking about relationships is extremely easy for most people, considering the tightness of the bonds that close friends and family typically share. They feel comfortable in each others' presence, and are therefore much more open and willing to talk about things that they see as more personal.

All Three Explained in One Video (Video File)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fTNeMiQebT8

Indigenous Filipino music is mainly about various things that shape communities, like day-to-day activities and major events. For instance, birth, invitation ceremonies, graduation ceremonies, courtship, marriage, death, funeral rites, hunting, fishing, planting, harvest, healing, and armed conflicts are all popular topics within the genre. It is also closely related to other cultural traditions of Southeast Asia, and commonly referred to as a big part of the "Asiatic Oral Traditions" because of the way that it is transmitted orally throughout communities.

Usually, when performing Filipino indigenous music, participation rates are extremely high, and most all people make it a habit to have at least some form of dancing or physical movement. Traditionally, the audience is always greatly involved, the only exception to this being if it's a solo performance, in which case all the focus will be on the sole performer.

Example of Indigenous Filipino Music (Audio File)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HhWzj4FmcS0

When people speak of "Filipino Folk Music," this is usually what they're talking about, which just comes to show the amount of power that the people of the "Lowlands" hold. To this day, the Spanish have arguably had the biggest impact on Filipino music.

During their period of reign, guitars rose greatly in popularity, and this was also when they were introduced to the Harana, the Kundiman, and the Rondalla, all of which can be heard in the country even now. These three forms especially have molded and shaped much of the traditional music, especially much of the popular dance music, due to the trio's Spanish-Mexican roots.

Example of Spanish Influenced Filipino Music (Audio File)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i7wzgF1c4xQ

Today, a good deal of the Americans' influence can be seen in their Art music, Popular music, and Semi-classical music. The main reason for the spike in popularity of these specific genres was the amount of schools that they built. At the time, these types of music were especially popular with the younger generations, and when the kids from the two countries assimilated, the genres were introduced.

Also during the American colonial period, between the years 1906 and 1934, over 100, 000 Filipinos were sent to the US, mainly to Hawaii, to become fruit pickers or to work in fish canneries. During their times there, they were also inevitably introduced to other types and genres, which, when a lot of them returned, was in turn introduced to even more people and eventually popularized.

Example of American Influenced Filipino Music (Audio File)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PRUMa0Iyw_s

Built and carved in mud, rice terraces mad it easy for the people to develop a watering system from harvesting water from mountaintops. A really big advantage, though, was the natural maintenance that the design allowed for, which saved people a lot of time and effort. They had also built it with an annual system in mind, which fit almost seamlessly with lunar cycles, zoning, planning, soil conservation, pest control via herbs, and even their tribal culture and rituals.

Overall, rice terraces provided many advantages, and throughout the 2000 years that they are said to have existed, they helped tribes develop better, harmonious relationships with their environment. Though they are no longer used, their impact on the country can still be seen in a smaller scale in the Philippines' current farming culture.

Link to Art Gallery

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1dPLQa3L7UueEYrY072bpVfHjq5hg2YCOAYxLYFcRGk0/edit?usp=sharing

Though similar is many ways, there were many things Bahay na Bato had, that nipa huts didn't. For example, the two are similar in size and layout, but made with completely different materials. While Nipa huts are usually made with bamboo, Bahay na Bata are mainly built with stones or bricks. Since the design of these houses were first developed in Spain, a similarly hot and humid country, this style allowed Filipinos to enjoy a cooler and more heat resistant interior. They were also sturdier and much more durable.

The design became so popular that it was starting to be incorporated into bigger, more significant buildings, such as Spanish-era covents, schools, hotels, hospitals, and factories. Its popularity only increased as time passed, only starting to decline after the Americans took over during the post World War II period.

Link to Art Gallery

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1dPLQa3L7UueEYrY072bpVfHjq5hg2YCOAYxLYFcRGk0/edit?usp=sharing

The moment that architects Juan Nakpil, Andres Luna de San Pedro, Juan M. Arellano, and Pablo Antonio caught word of them, they made it their mission to support this style of buildings as much as possible. The four of them collectively built the majority of the aforementioned theatres, many of which can still be seen today. Eventually, Art Deco was also incorporated into house designs, which only further popularized the style.

Art Deco houses, of course, are the successors of Bahay na Bato that eventually eliminated them. Initially originating in France during World War I, the style was first introduced to America then introduced and popularized in the Philippines during and after the second World War. Being one of the more recent waves of architectural influence, many Art Deco buildings can still be seen, especially the theatres, which are what the previously mentioned architects are most famous for.

Link to Art Gallery

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1dPLQa3L7UueEYrY072bpVfHjq5hg2YCOAYxLYFcRGk0/edit?usp=sharing

Being a demon of the wilderness, other special skills the Tikbalang possesses are extreme strength, immortality, shape shifting, and stealth. The main reason why they choose to terrorize people at night is for a number of reasons. For one thing, their illusions work better at night. For another, people tend to feel more on edge at night, and therefore are more jumpy and more fun to scare.

Tikbalangs are said to commit a number of crimes, including fearmongering, murder, assault, and battery, but the worst by far is rape. A big part of why they do what they do is their need to reproduce, which they do by terrorizing and raping unknowing women at night. They see scaring, harassing, and attacking as a hobby, and attack even men and children just because they feel like it.

The Legend of the Tikbalang (Video File)

https://dcmp.org/media/17687-monstrum-tikbalang#:~:text=The%20Tikbalang%20is%20a%20creature,head%20when%20it%20squats%20down

There are many types of Duwendes, but a basic breakdown of their natures are that white Duwendes are always benevolent, while colorful Duwendes are benevolent by default, but can turn malevolent if angered or if their habitats are harmed. Black and red Duwendes, however, are always malevolent. They are the most evil of the lot, and will sometimes cast curses on people for fun.

"Do not do unto others what you do not want others to do unto you" is the main rule that Duwendes with for people to follow. They wish to be treated with respect, just like many other invisible creatures. Most only attack if they have a good reason to. it is also partially because of their fear of getting cursed that so many Filipinos are also polite while using the bathroom, or throwing out dirty water.

The Duwende of the Fields (Video File)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OtaHvso8FAg

Tiyanaks are malevolent creatures that are said to be the unborn children of Matiyanaks, another vengeful female creature that had failed during childbirth, and was out to get revenge by roaming around at night and ripping out male genitals. According to this theory, Tiyanaks and Matiyanaks would actually be creatures of Spanish mythology, brought to the country when the Spanish took over.

Another theory is that Tiyanaks are linked to the Aztec Chaneques, a creature highly resembling a small child that finds fun in making travelers lost their way, or hurting or harming them. Others state that the Tiyanak is neither, and that it is actually the spirit of all aborted children in the Philippines. It is unlikely that we will ever know for sure.

The Protean Tale of the Tiyanak (Text File)

https://www.victormanibo.com/blog/e1dx8xmxq52ea7yxqyaeg424iwr86t

In the Philippines, they were quite a commodity. However, when the Spanish took hold of the design, it was made quite a big deal, and in more Western countries, they were soon classified as strictly luxury goods. This traditional garment is so popular that, even now, it can still be seen very commonly around the Philippines, and is especially popular with older women, though the designs have lessened in decoration, and are plainer. Their chosen inner garment has also changed, the most popular one now becoming a Terno.

Link to Art Gallery

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1E24z9739G1t238EhaBn1ivhipetojuU9zML_yWrDxyU/edit?usp=sharing

Compared to traditional ones, modern versions of Kimonas are much more tapered and fitting, while still holding their slightly billowy form. If they are made with organza, Kimonas usually come with an undershirt of some sort, or a polyester lining.

It comes as no surprise that such an elegant garment was mostly only worn by the rich and famous, or to fancy events such as weddings or formal dances. Nowadays, a modern version has been designed that is more casual with a lot less detail that can be worn casually.

Link to Art Gallery

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1E24z9739G1t238EhaBn1ivhipetojuU9zML_yWrDxyU/edit?usp=sharing

Back in the day, skirts with striped or checkered patterns were thought to be a sign of wealth, as only the wealthiest of families could afford such decorative fabrics. The shirts, officially given the name "camisa," became more intricate in design as time progressed, appearing with embroidered patterns and bigger and bigger bell sleeves. When the Americans arrived, however, they began altering the designs to make them more efficient, making the sleeves and train smaller, also snatching the waist, and eventually combining everything into what we now know as a zip-up dress.

Link to Art Gallery

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1E24z9739G1t238EhaBn1ivhipetojuU9zML_yWrDxyU/edit?usp=sharing

Only 11 fluent speakers of the language remain, and most of them are over 50. Some 35-45 year olds can partially speak the language, but not properly communicate. The main problem now is that the language is not being passed on to the children, though there is no need to, since the communities are all multilingual.

Media: 404 (Not Found)

(No recordings could be found)

A couple efforts have been made to preserve the language, though none have worked, and the people of the older generations are not teaching it to the younger generations, so the language is predicted to become extinct very soon.

Media: 404 (Not Found)

(No recordings could be found)

Though children are usually taught to speak Agta, not many of them are marrying out of the community, decreasing their inter-generational transmission. With a current 40% intermarriage rate, and most children of the new generation now bothering to learn the language, things are not looking good for the future of the language.

The only one of the three that I could find (Dumagat)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pe0-6WuobL0

Some of Nicole's most notable achievements are as follows:

1. Forming One Direction, the biggest boy band in the world, that outsold her own band by over 11 times, and have amassed a total Net Worth of 340 Million , during her time on Season 7 of X Factor.

2. Being the lead singer of The Pussycat Dolls, one of the world's biggest girl bands, that has a combined Net Worth of 30.1 Million.

3. Building her own career through touring with other bands, then eventually forming a successful career in music through pure hard work.

4. Marrying former Scottish rugby player Thom Evans.

5. Building a successful career even after the disbanding.

6. Helping raise money for multiple charities.

7. Having her own line of press-on nails.

8. Becoming an ambassador for Herbal Essences and Proactiv+.

9. Becoming the face of Müller Corner and Perfectil.

10. Becoming the godmother of P&O Cruises and Arvia

11. Earning a total of 7 music awards

Nicole does not have any official biographies, but there have been many books written about her. These achievements are things that her (main) ethnic country is to be proud of, especially as they have a lot of pride to gain.

Interview Audio File (Compilation):

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=98XQGK-Fb9Y

Here are some of Imelda's biggest achievements:

1. She was one of the main people of her time that promoted the country's art and culture.

2. She funded he building of many of the country's most important buildings, such as hospitals, schools, and other facilities.

3. She made many connections for the country with other world leaders

4. She established many charities in her time that helped out many people

5. She had the biggest shoe collection of her time, an astounding 3000 pairs, and an equally lavish wardrobe that was equally legendary.

"How Imelda Became the Philippines' Most Enduring Marcos" (Biography)

https://time.com/6298212/here-lies-love-imelda-marcos-legacy/

Here are Gabriela's biggest achievements:

1. She became known as the leader of the Ilocano Revolt

2. She successfully united many groups across the country for the revolt.

3. She was the first Filipina woman to achieve something this big, which in turn inspired other women of her country.

4. She became an official symbol of resistance. Her legacy remains to this day.

5. She was given the title "Heroine of the Philippine Revolution."

"Gabriela Silang: Anti-Colonial Fighter in the Philippines (Biography)

https://www.liberationschool.org/07-04-27-gabriela-silang-anticolonial-f-html/

One day, Aponibolinayen asks to go with Ini-init to his job. Though he warns her against it, she is persistent, and says that she'll be okay as long as she brings blankets to hide under. Reluctantly, he lets her go. However, the blankets do not work, and Aponibolinayen is turned to oil.

To save her, Ini-init has no choice but to wrap her in the blankets and drop her back down to the world underneath. There, she is found by the people and soon has a baby. When her parents demand to meet the father. Though unwilling to attend, Ini-init eventually does show up, and once he has gained the approval of her parents, the two take their child to the upper world and live happily ever after.

Aponibolinayen and the Sun (Text File)

https://www.worldoftales.com/Asian_folktales/Filipino_folktale_1.html#gsc.tab=0

Eventually, he grew suspicious and finally caught what he was saying. And so he set off on the perilous journey to obtain this mythical fruit. Aponitolau encountered many obstacles, and was told to turn back many times, but he didn't relent, and managed to obtain two of the fruits. Alas, after getting them, he fell on a knife that was a branch, and impaled himself, killing himself and being cursed to stay in the realm for all of eternity.

Aponiboliyanen was devastated when she heard that her husband had died, but had enjoyed the delicious oranges, and soon after had a child of hers and Aponitolau's. The child, whom she named Kanag, grew fast and strong. One day, when he angered an old lady, she let slip the news of his father. He immediately rushed home to confront his mother, and upon hearing the news confirmed, he immediately rushed into the realm to bring back his father. He breezed through the obstacles, strong and fearless, and eventually succeeded in defeating Gawigawen. When he returned with his father, victorious, the riches of the town also became theirs, and their family lived happily ever after.

Gawigawen of Adasen (Text File)

https://www.worldoftales.com/Asian_folktales/Filipino_folktale_3.html#gsc.tab=0

Aponitolau tried and tried, but failed every time. Eventually they went home, Dumalawi feeling sad that his father wanted to kill him. The next day, Aponitolau tricked him into drinking some very old wine, and got his really drunk, before sending him off to a faraway place. That day, he returned home, ecstatic.

When Dumalawi awoke, he used his powers to build an entire civilization from betel nuts, and when he awoke for a second time, it was complete. While touring the community that he made, he found himself a wife. For their wedding, he sent betel nuts out with invitations to everyone in the world. When his mother received the invitation, she was glad to know that her son was alive. While crossing a river on the way there, Aponitolau was dragged out of the boat by a crocodiles and killed. Dumalawi was glad to see that his mother was unharmed, but refused to return with her. He and his wife, Dapilisan, then lived happily ever after.

The Story of Dumalawi (Text File)

https://www.worldoftales.com/Asian_folktales/Filipino_folktale_5.html#gsc.tab=0

Leche flan is made simply using song eggs, condensed milk, evaporated milk, and sugar. It is then steamed or baked until it achieves a solid form and a brownish color, upon which a deliccious caramel sauce will be added to the dessert, adding a pop of sweetness. While most prefer the traditional recipe, other variations of the dessert have been made, some adding additional things such as vanilla extract or citrus vest to add flavor, whereas others add daring ingredients such as cream cheese or pandan. Regardless, leche flan is a well loved dessert throughout the Philippines, and trying it is a must.

Link to Art Gallery

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1IOHZcMgafXzqgcEeGEBsv12FjRozoqH3E3XNjxO7jyw/edit?usp=sharing

The cake itself is rather different to other bibingkas (traditional baked cakes), as the usual ground glutinous rice is replaced with grated cassava, though it is reportedly delicious, so it must not really matter. Typically, when being baked, the mixture is poured into the bottom of a pan lined with banana leaves of greased, then cooked until a golden brown. Other variations of the dish may include additions of butter, margarine, vanilla, evaporated milk, or additional sugar.

Link to Art Gallery

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1IOHZcMgafXzqgcEeGEBsv12FjRozoqH3E3XNjxO7jyw/edit?usp=sharing

What makes it so special is the fact that a lot of the usually store bought materials are made by the people themselves, using the country's traditional alcohol fermentation methods to create their own vinegars in particular. Some of the most popular ones to make are coconut, cane, nipa palm, and kaong palm vinegar. One of the most common misconceptions about Filipino chicken adobo is that it is similar to its Spanish counterpart. While the two both have garlic and vinegar in their recipes, many things used in the Spanish adobo, such as chilis, paprika, oregano, and tomatoes, are not used in the Filipino adobo.

Link to Art Gallery

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1IOHZcMgafXzqgcEeGEBsv12FjRozoqH3E3XNjxO7jyw/edit?usp=sharing

One thing that Filipinos especially value is relationships. They typically have very close-knit families maintain very close personal connections. They love and respect each other very much, especially more elderly family members, and are always willing to help each other out. They also have a strong sense of unity, as many of their traditions and customs rely heavily on communication and teamwork.

Kind and generous by nature, Filipinos have many traditions that like to emphasize this characteristic of their culture. They always jump at a chance to share their culture with outsiders, and are hospitable and kind souls that enjoy spreading happiness and positivity through festivals and other special occasions. Oftentimes, during certain special occasions, they enjoy hosting parties and spending these special occasions with loved ones. They follow the concept "Utang na loob," Debt of Gratitude in English, that encourages them to treat people with kindness and to always be positive.

The Philippines is very well known for being majorly religious, and it is because of this that religion makes up a significant amount of Filipino culture. With the amount of Western influence it has, the country is largely Catholic. This reflects on a lot of their traditions, too, as the majority of citizens actively practice religion. In the Philippines, spirituality is thought to be a source of guidance, helping people through good and bad times and providing guidance.

Peace and Harmony is very strong concept in the Philippines, with the importance of getting along being specially emphasized. They encourage harmony within communities, and believe that it should be prioritized above all else. This causes for a significantly less amount of conflict. When it comes to family, both close and expended, politeness is also ever present. Not only do they typically possess really tight familial bonds, they also have a mutual respect for each other, especially for children towards their elders.

Hospitality and constant geniality is also something that is commonly linked to the country, as they are very well known for being generous and caring towards tourists. Even towards guests, they are only ever friendly and respectful. In the country, there is a common concept of "Hiya," which is a sense of embarrassment that comes as a result of disrespectful or inappropriate actions.

Much of Filipino music revolves around the themes of love, loss, nature, and everyday life. Folk songs are more commonly about things like heroism, romance, and other, more fairy-tale aspects of life. Through their various types of music, the people are able to pass older beliefs down to younger generations, so that, even as the people themselves change, their roots will not, and they can still stay true to themselves and their culture.

Music is also a vital part of celebratory and festive traditions. They have upbeat rhythms and melodies that create an atmosphere of joy and closeness during big events. They also convey a sense of unity, which really helps in bringing people together and strengthening heir personal and social connections. What's more, music is one of the best ways to bring generations together, and share culture so that it is not, and never will be, lost.

However, it is not just other countries that have affected architecture as a whole, but also the archipelago, the many other smaller islands that make up the Philippines. It's good to see that people have also turned to their own country's multiple smaller cultures for inspiration, not just other countries. A lot of designs from regions such as the Cordilleras, Mindanao, and the Visayas can still be seen in some more modern buildings.

The multiculturalism of the country can also be seen through the architecture of the Philippines; many countries' influences can be seen, and many of the country itself. Even today, many architectural treasures can still be seen that demonstrate to us just how much architecture means to Filipinos, and it is that preservation of those architectural treasures that helps the Philippines maintain a connection to its past and cultural heritage.

Through myths, legends, and folk tales, Filipinos can learn about their ancestors, their cultural heroes, and their country's mythical creatures, allowing them to gain insight into their past. Moreover, stories as such often teach or depict moral lessons that emphasize the country's root values, which, in this case, is the importance of politeness, manners, resilience, courage, and loyalty. Upon hearing these tales, people will aspire to be like the heroes, and take those values and aspirations with them into further life.

Furthermore, many cultural practices, celebrations and rituals in the Philippines are linked to folklore. Some good examples of this are the Ati-Atihan, Sinulog, and Pahiyas festivals. Other things like traditional music and dances are also inspired by folk tales and myths.

The most original traditional attire is iconic and irreplaceable; it showcases the country's root beliefs, values, and identity, and, by wearing the heavy traditional clothing, they are simultaneously being respectful and paying tribute to their ancestors, honoring their country. However, to wear the more modern clothing is acknowledging their country's growth and evolution, and is also a way of respecting your country, because ultimately, it is one of the best ways of capturing the changing society, values, and aspirations of the people.

Fashion also plays a big part in promoting Filipino craftsmanship, a lot of which can be seen in the increasingly popular designs of Filipino designers. It's interesting to know that much of this craftsmanship was partially derived from the fashion of the many earlier periods of the country's history, taking elements from each and combining and changing some things to make them fit the current fashion standards.

Others are spoken on average by anywhere from a couple thousand to maybe tens of thousands of people. However, the linguistic diversity of the country, though good in many ways, can also become a big disadvantage. As time goes on, more and more people from small communities learn more popular languages such as the two previously mentioned ones, or other major regional languages such as Bikolano, Kapampangan, and Waray-Waray, and choose to teach these to their children instead of the endangered languages of their own communities.

Though many of the smaller communities are multilingual, a lot of them still don't know any of the more major languages, and with the rapid decline of speakers for these endangered languages, this could pose a very big problem in the future when communication starts becoming bigger and bigger an issue.

It doesn't matter what time period they live in, all that matters is the positive impact that they have on the country. Things like this can be achieved in more than one way, as my selection of people have shown. First is liberal justice and honor. By staying true to their country and sticking to it always, they have helped it in more ways than one.

Second is the uniting of communities, because these people are truly amazing individuals, and the fact that the things that they do have brought so much of the country together really speaks volumes as to the amount that they have helped unite people. Finally is the reflection of their actions on the country. When these people do great things, their actions reflect on their country, and the country will be associated with great things. These people are more than just icons, they are individuals that give their countries something to be proud of, and, more importantly, something to be proud of.

Oftentimes, themes such as love and passion are also explored, many writers exploring the complexities of love, showing how it can bring out positive attributes in people, such as selflessness, sacrifice, and enduring devotion. Communication is yet another commonly expressed theme, used by writers to foster understanding between communities, and learn the importance of using healthy ways to overcome conflict and other tough situations.

However, by far, the most commonly expressed themes have got to be ones that people of the Philippines most admire in individuals--steadfast courage and determination. Characters in the most famous and successful works of literature all share these attributes, and they act as role models to Filipinos, encouraging them to be the best versions of themselves, and motivating them to never give up, even in the toughest of situations. They also serve as a reminder for readers to face challenges head-on, and to keep trying, no matter what.

Influence aside, many Filipino dishes are well known traditions that are passed down through generations of people, and are well respected by all. This can be seen through the amount of recipes that have survive the test of time. The Philippines has one of the most well preserved histories of cuisine, with the majority of ancient dishes still known by many.

Another reason behind their rich food culture, though, has got to be the country's collective love for food. Filipinos are a happy people, and love to honor their culture through many traditional events. They have one of the most festive cultures in Asia, and are proud to show it off. Unlike many other countries, they don't pay too much mind to staying fit, as they are very healthy overall from all the physical activities such as dancing and theatrical performances that they do at festivals and in their everyday lives.