5 Old-Times Practice Things that Filipino Still DO!

There were lot of Filipino beliefs that people have abandon. Contrary to popular belief, not all the shocking practices our ancestors used to do have been relegated to the dustbin of history. In fact, these practices—far from being consigned to the schoolbooks—are actually very much in vogue today (some more than others). Here are some example of Filipino Beliefs that still being followed. 

1. Inserting “Bolitas” Into The Male Genitals.

Pilik-mata ng Kambing – one of the sexual accoutrements used by Filipinos. Photograph taken from Colors Magazine, January 1997 issue. You might probably have heard how the Filipinos in pre-colonial times used to insert all sorts of implants and adornments into their genitals in order to enhance their partner’s sexual experience; apparently, the practice continues to be observed among members of the sea-faring community.

2.  “Pukpok.”

Known as traditional circumcision, “pukpok” is seen as a coming-of-age ritual for boys and is mostly done in many rural areas across the Philippines.

3. “Kutkot.” 

Located in the island of Mindoro, the tribe still observes the practice of “kutkot” where they literally dig up the remains of a loved one a year after his/her death and dress it up in clothes. To make the remains more human, the family bundles it up in clothes to form a mannequin-like figure called a “sinakot.”

4.  Female Circumcision.

Hard to believe, but it’s not only males whose genitals go under the knife in this country. Certain Muslim communities in the south also have their women undergo ritual circumcision called “Pag-Islam” or “Pag-Sunnat.” As we can recall, female circumcision (or Female Genital Mutilation as the World Health Organization calls it) is a hugely controversial practice and has been condemned by many in the international community due to its harmful effects on women. Like its male counterpart, the tradition is said to have been introduced into the country by Muslim settlers, although another theory holds it was the pagan pre-Spanish Filipinos who started the ritual.

5. Whaling.

A little-known fact: our ancestors, especially those living in the coastal areas, used to hunt whales, dolphins, whale sharks, and other large fish and mammals for subsistence. The practice, which was documented as early as the 17^th century and became an industry during the different historical eras, was outlawed in 1997after it came under intense international scrutiny.

Unfortunately, no definitive conclusion can be reached as to whether the practice has really been eradicated. On the contrary, anti-whaling advocates concede that the ban may have merely forced the whalers to continue their operations in secret.

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