The Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), Philippines' only land-locked region, consists of the provinces of Abra, Benguet, Ifugao, Kalinga, Mountain Province and Apayao. Baguio City is the regional center. The Cordillera region encompasses most of the areas within the Cordillera Central mountain range of Luzon, the largest range in the country. This region is home to numerous indigenous tribes collectively called the Igorot.
Dances: Budong, Salip, Salidsid, Uyaoy
Uyaoy (Ifugao)
Lumad
Lumad is a Cebuano Visayan term meaning native or indigenous. For more than two decades it has been used to refer to the groups indigenous to Mindanao who are neither Muslim nor Christian. There are 18 Lumad ethnolinguistic groups: Ata, Bagobo, Banwaon, B'laan, Bukidnon, Dibabawon, Higaonon, Mamanwa, Mandaya, Manguwangan, Manobo, Mansaka, Subanon, Tagakaolo, Tasaday, T'boli, Teduray, and Ubo.
Dances: Helubong, Sloong Knebang, Tagabili, Madal Blelah, Karasaguyon, Madal Tajo, Karal Kafi, Makatod, Lawin-Lawin, Blit-Blaan
Helubong (T'boli)
Moro
The southern islands of the Philippines are wondrous and serene. Consisting of Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago, the south is populated by many Filipinos who have been converted to the Islamic faith long before the Spanish inquisition took place. The dances of these islands are graceful, flowing, and fluid; much like the ocean that surrounds them. The spectacle of colorful and intricate attire and the mesmerizing sounds of the kulintang ensemble easily make these dances the most exotic of all Philippine dances.
The Western European ways of life spread throughout the islands of the Philippines where Spain had much contact and influence.The suite showcases the influence of religion and arts of the Spaniards strongly in music, dance, and dress.These dances are named in the honor of the legendary, Maria Clara, the chief female character of Jose Rizal’s Noli Me Tangere. Symbolizing the grace and beauty of the Filipina woman.
Dances: Dandansoy, Jota Cagayana, Sinakiki, Paso Doble, Jota Manila, Jota Panderetas, Jota de Paragua
Pistahan
The Philippine countryside is a land bestowed with endless beauty. It is thought of by many as the true Philippines. Small wonder why the dances of the rural farmers that inhabit these areas are the most famous of all Filipino dances. After a hard day's work, the rural people gather in their barrios and would perform many impromptu and lively dances as a form of relaxation. These dances personify the many joys of work, of the surroundings, and of life among the simple country people.
Dances: Pandanggo Sa Ilaw/Oasioas, Subli, Lapay Bantigue, Binasuan, Gaway-Gaway, Tinikling
