1. Tinikling
Also known as the bamboo dance or stick dance, tinikling involves two people rapidly hitting bamboo poles on the ground and against each other to create a sound and rhythm. Dancers then step over and in-between the bamboo poles without getting hit, creating a lively and challenging performance.
2. Pandanggo sa Ilaw
Pandanggo sa Ilaw, which translates to "dance with light," features dancers holding lighted candles or other light sources in their hands while gracefully performing intricate footwork and movements. This dance showcases coordination and the ability to balance the lights without extinguishing them.
3. Carinosa
Carinosa is a courtship dance that originated in the Visayas region of the Philippines. It is characterized by the flirtatious movements of a pair of dancers, with the male dancer leading the female dancer through turns, twirls, and graceful steps.
4. Sayaw sa Bangko
Sayaw sa Bangko means "dance on the bench." As its name suggests, this dance involves participants standing on a bench or elevated platform while performing coordinated movements. It often features humorous interactions and playful gestures between dancers.
5. Maglalatik
Maglalatik is a dance that depicts a mock fight between two groups using coconut shells. The dancers engage in rhythmic movements, tapping the coconut shells together and clashing them to create percussive sounds.
6. Sua-ku-Sua
Sua-ku-Sua is a dance that originates from Sulu. It is a flirtatious dance performed by a pair of dancers. It is usually performed at weddings or other joyous events.
7. Pantomina
Pantomina is a dance that uses props that represent different characters or roles. For instance, a fan may represent elegance and grace or a hat that symbolizes authority or power.
8. Balitaw
Balitaw is a courtship dance that originated in Visayan regions of the Philippines. The dance is characterized by improvised poetic verses (balitao) with improvised dance steps.
9. Salidsid
Salidsid is a dance that comes from the province of Capiz. It features energetic movements and tapping and clapping of bamboo poles.
10. Jota Moncadeña
Jota Moncadeña, also known as Itik-Itik, is a dance that originates in the city of Moncada, Tarlac. It takes inspiration from the movements and mannerisms of ducks (itik), combining lively steps and humorous elements.