Language & Culture

Language- A total of 182 native languages are spoken in the country and
four languages have been classified as extinct. There are 13 indigenous
languages with at least one million native speakers: Tagalog, Cebuano,
Ilokano, Hiligaynon, Waray-Waray, Kapampangan, Coastal Bikol,
Pangasinan, Maranao, Maguindanao, Kinaray-a, and Tausug. One or more
is spoken natively by more than 90% of the population.

T

he good news for visitors is that English is also very widely spoken. So
communication in the Philippines is normally very easy. Menus are in
English at restaurants and hotels and stores have English signage and
English-speaking staff. Thus, the Philippines is considered one of the most
visitor-friendly countries in Asia.

Culture- The Philippine culture is famous worldwide for its colorful
dances, songs and tasty cuisine. The culture of the Philippines has been
heavily influenced by both Asian and Western cultures. The Philippines
was first settled by Melanesians. Today, few in numbers, they preserve the
traditional way of life and culture. After them, Austronesians, or Malayo-
Polynesians, arrived on the islands. Today the Austronesian culture is very
evident in the ethnicity, language, food, dance and almost every aspect of
the culture. While dance, cinema,
music and indigenous art are strong,
travellers are most likely to
encounter the many Filipino food
dishes. Rice is a staple. Popular
dishes such as adobo (a meat stew
made from either pork or chicken),
lumpia (meat or vegetable rolls),
pancit (a noodle dish), and lechón
(roasted pig) are popularly served
and should be experienced. Also,
some spicy dishes, like the ceviche
called the “Bicol Express” are not to
be missed by seafood lovers. The
lively culture and cuisine of the
Philippines add to any holiday visit.

Spicy peppers