Spanish Influence in Philippine Culture

Screenshot from Google Maps

Our country, Philippines, is rich in culture due to the inheritance from our ancestors as well as the huge influence by our colonizers, which the longest is Spain. It started in 1521 when Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan, who's under Hispanic rule, has landed in Samar Island. The colonization expanded to about 333 years, long enough to engrave their culture to the Filipino people.

Screenshot from Google Maps

The name Philippines was named after Spanish King

Of course, the major impact Spain has in Philippines is the name of the country which was derived from Spanish ruler King Phillip II. Yes, the country's name is an indication of colonization from a dominant country. Thus, a Filipino politician recently proposed to change the name of the country, which led to backlash from Filipinos insinuating the confusion it will bring to the people. Tracing the history of the Philippines regarding the Hispanic colonization, we can't change that fact and the name of the country is part of it.

Influence with names

Spanish names has a major influence on Filipinos as well. Spanish names such as Pedro, Juan, Flavio, Maria, Marcos, and more were very common among Filipinos. Even our surnames has traces from Hispanic roots. In fact, our family has Spanish roots from my grandfather who's surname has the character/letter "ñ".

Religion

The dominant religion in the country, Catholicism, is among the biggest influence in Philippines. Religious festivities and celebrations greatly affects the Filipinos, by which such festivals were being celebrated in all parts of the country.

Structures

Filipino houses is a mark of Spanish influence in the country. However, many houses today were built in concretes. Perhaps due to the typhoons hitting the country every year which is responsible for the wreckage of old homes, such as those built with wood. Ancestral and old houses in Vigan City were protected and still intact particularly at the popular, Calle Crisologo.

Credits to Captaincid

Gambling

I never been into gambling but a number of gambling practiced in the country are highly influenced by Spain which included cara y cruz.

Currency

Former Spanish currency name peseta is similar to Philippines peso. In fact, former Spanish colony Mexico has peso as their currency as well. Spanish peseta was changed to Euro during the earlier 2000s.

Photo is mine

Foods

Foods such as paella, menudo, mechado, lechon, etc were very popular in the Philippines, but such dishes originated from Spain.

Photo is mine.

Visit the Philippines

Philippines is one of the must visit countries every summer because of beautiful beaches, and sceneries. Different festivities being celebrated during the summer season draws tourism to surge, and you will surely enjoy your stay in the country.

Conclusion:

Indeed, Philippines is rich in culture. Spanish play a major influence. There may have been conflicts to gain independence, but a huge part of the Philippines traces back to the history when our country was colonized by Spain. Philippines is now enjoying independence from any rule, and now a sovereign country for more than a century.

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