Symbols of the Philippines, Philippine Symbols

The Philippine Flag

It was first unfurled during the proclamation of Philippine independence in Kawit, Cavite on June 12, 1898. The flag consists of blue and red horizontal stripes, representing the love for peace and bravery of the Filipinos. In times of peace, the flag is hoisted with blue stripe at the top, and when in war, the red stripe is on top. A white equilateral triangle on the left hoist side has a yellow sunburst with eight rays in its centre, representing the first eight provinces that took up arms against Spain – Batangas, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, Manila, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, and Tarlac. Three yellow stars near the angles of the triangle symbolize the three major island groupings – Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.

The National Anthem

The Philippine Flag is raised to the tune of the Philippine National Anthem, which was first played by the musical band of San Francisco de Malabon on June 12, 1898. Music teacher Julian Felipe is recognized as the composer of the national anthem while poet Jose Palma wrote its Spanish lyrics. From the original Spanish lyrics, Felipe de Leon translated the poem into an elegant Tagalog version – Lupang Hinirang - the one sung at the opening ceremony of formal occasions to this day.

Other National Symbols

National Costumes. Barong Tagalog or the national costume for men consists of elegantly embroidered fabric. This is worn in formal occasions and public offices. Baro't Saya is the national costume for women. This combination of blouse and long skirt is worn only during formal occasions.

Bahay Kubo (Nipa Hut) consists of nipa and bamboo components. It has for a long time symbolized the national architectural design of houses in the Philippines. To this day, however, only a few houses in the provinces are made from nipa and bamboo.

Jeepney – Although it is not officially recognized as a national symbol, it is the most common type of vehicle on Philippine streets. The word "jeep" evolved from the military designation, general-purpose or G.P., of a light vehicle first used by the Americans in World War II. After the war, these vehicles were left by the Americans and converted by the Filipinos into longer public utility vehicles, with artistic and indigenous designs.

Tinikling is the official national dance of the Philippines. This folk dance involves two long pieces of bamboos where dancers gracefully move their feet without being trapped.

Sipa is the national sport, although it is rarely played in the Philippines today. This sport involves a round ball made of local materials that has to be kept in the air by kicking for the longest time possible.

Sampaguita, a flower of Jasmine variety (Jasminium sambac), was declared as the National Flower of Philippines in 1934. Known for its strong fragrance, sampaguita is used as an ornament and deodorizer in public utility vehicles.

Lechon or roasted pig is regarded as a national dish of the Philippines, although it is common in many countries. Lechon is a must in lavish parties, including feasts and weddings.

Mango or Mangifera indica in scientific term is recognised as the national fruit of the Philippines, although the country’s major fruit exports are bananas and pineapples. In 1995, the Guinness Book of World records listed the Carabao Mango of the Philippines as the sweetest fruit in the world.

Bangus or Chanos chanos in scientific term is known around the world as milkfish. For many years, this fish has been abundant in the Philippines and is a common item in a typical meal of the Filipinos. However, bangus now has a strong competitor – tilapia, the most widely cultivated species in the country’s growing aquaculture industry.

Philippine Eagle, considered as the second largest in the world, is endemic to the Philippines. With scientific name Pithecophaga jefferyi, the Philippine eagle lives in the rainforests of Isabela, Samar, Leyte and Mindanao. It has similarities with Papua New Guinea's Harpy Eagle (Harpyopsis novaeguinea). Included in the endangered list, the Philippine Eagle was declared as the national bird to ensure its protection and continued existence in the future.

Carabao or Bubalus bubalis in scientific term is a domesticated type of water buffalo, which for a long time has played a crucial part in the livelihood of the Filipino farmers. It is recognized as the national animal.

Narra or Pterocarpus indicus in scientific term is the source of the toughest and most expensive lumbers in the world. It is the national tree of the Philippines.