Filipino Folk Dance Steps

Filipino folk dance steps are diverse and varied, and already have a long cultural history since they stem from many generations ago. An explanation of the various styles of folk dance originating in the Philippines, as well as a quick reference for some common steps in each genre, are just two kinds of information that anyone interested in this genre of dancing are likely to find valuable.

Just like many other nations, the Philippines have been heavily influenced by other cultures over the years. Their history includes the coming of Roman Catholicism through the Spanish, and many of the early folk dances were influenced by these Spaniards. However, each dance type explained below retains its own unique culture and style in addition to any Spanish influences.

The name of this genre of folk dance comes from a fictional heroine cherished by Filipino women. She is symbolic of noble virtues, and continues to be taught about today. With the Maria Clara Suite, you will find castanets and fans as props and accompaniment, along with traditional dress for the Philippines including a long-sleeved shirt with embroidery.

The Alcamfor is one feature of the Maria Clara, where a couple dances while the female holds a handkerchief that has been scented with perfume designed to trigger romantic urges. Along this theme, the Andaluz is a movement of classy courtship and flirting during the Spanish era of the Philippines. The dance steps include a story of males competing with each other to win over the beautiful young lady who is the center of the dance.

Finally, the Balse is a waltz derivative that is part of the Maria Clara. This waltz-like step was often performed during the Spanish era after a religious procession known as a “lutrina”. Musicians using bamboo instruments often accompany the Balse.

While the majority of the Philippines' cultural dances are formed by adding the influences of foreign groups to their own traditional dances, there are corners of the Philippines where no foreign influence has yet changed the traditional dances of the region. These areas are in the hills and mountains of the country, and dance is used as a form of God worship, bringing a special and significant meaning that goes beyond basic folk dance.

The Anito Baylan is performed as a form of entertainment in a world that has few other options. The folk dance tells the story of a spiritual male and female participating in a healing ritual and a chicken is usually sacrificed during the execution of dance steps. The Dumadel is a series of dance steps performed by particular tribes to celebrate a bountiful harvest that year. And the Dugso is choreographed to please and entertain the various tribes’ gods and deities.

Of all the Filipino folk dance steps, the most common and popular ones are found within the Rural genre of Filipino movement. The dances often symbolize an attitude of celebration and a genuine love for life. From work to romance, this folk dance cherishes it all, and women often dance in colorful dresses and skirts while men opt for colored pants.

The Bagol is a simple rural folk dance where children have stringed coconut shell between their toes. Bayluhan is a traditional fertility dance still practiced today in some regions. Finally, the Binoyugan may be one of the most impressive folk dance types around – women balance clay pots on their heads, and they lay on their stomachs and roll with the pot still properly balanced. It is beautiful and stunning to watch, and is also celebrated in some Filipino cultural festivals around the world.

Unlike some other forms of dance, Filipino folk dances tell a story and set a mood and theme. It isn’t made up of simple counts and movements, instead flowing together as dances interwoven with tradition and history. To witness a Filipino folk dance is to truly learn about a nation and their heritage.

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