Philippines

Architecture

Architecture in the Philippines, is influenced greatly by the Spanish. Older buildings reflect Spanish architecture, while newer buildings have a modern look.

Celebrations

Filipinos, have many celebrations that celebrate the Catholic religion, Christmas is very important to Filipinos, they also have a festival where they reenact the crucifixion of Jesus to honor him. Many flower and spring festivals are also celebrated.

Who leads the family

Family is considered to be the foundation of social life for most Filipinos. The "head" of the family, is typically the elders, as it is common to find three generations living together. Than the father and the mother.

Food

Filipino dishes, are often very simple to make. Foods are a fusion of asian and Spanish cultures. Garlic, soy sauce, fish sauce, salt, and vinegar are common ingredients. Desserts are also simple.

Main Religions

The Philippines is the only Christian country in Asia. The most widely practiced religion is catholicism, which is practiced by 82% of the population, 5% are protestants, 4 percent practice Islam, and The other religions practiced are the Iglesia ni Christo, and The Philippine Independent Church, Buddhism, and confucianism.

Culture

The culture of the Philippines comprises a blend of traditional Filipino and Spanish Catholic traditions, with influences from America and other parts of Asia. The Filipinos are family oriented and often religious with an appreciation for art, fashion, music and food.

The Elderly

The elderly in the Philippines are highly respected. Family's take care of their elderly family members, they live with them . In the Philippines, the elderly population has been steadily increasing in both size and proportion. The 2000 census enumerated about 4.6 million persons aged 60 years and over.

Arranged Marriages

The practice of pre arranged marriages is quite common in the Philippines.

Superstitions

Whistling at night is bad luck, and can attract ghosts/ bad spirits. When three people pose for a photo, the one in the middle, will be the first to die. Bringing home food served at a funeral will bring bad luck Do not go straight home after a funeral, take a detour, or go somewhere else for a while, or the dead will follow you home Oro, Plata, Mata "Gold, Silver, Death"

Household Responsibilities

Women are expected to care for the home and the children, cooking, cleaning, etc. Men are expected to make the money to support the family, and support the children.

Children

Women in the Philippines will have an average of three children fertility has decreased from the 80's where the average was 5 children. Children in the Philippines, are expected to grow up and help and care for their families. They are expected to study well, if possible and work to support the family. Grandparents usually help to raise the children.