1. Luzon:
- Northern Luzon: Dances from this region showcase Spanish and Chinese influences, with intricate hand movements and quick, lively steps. Examples include:
- Pandanggo sa Ilaw (Ilocos)
- Patok (Pampanga)
- Central Luzon: These dances often involve bamboo poles, fans, and handkerchiefs as props, and feature elegant movements. Examples include:
- Sayaw sa Bangko (Pampanga)
- Cariñosa (Pangasinan)
- Southern Luzon: Dances from this region are characterized by their dramatic and flirtatious nature, with passionate gestures and footwork. Examples include:
- Balitao (Batangas)
- Habanera (Cavite)
2. Visayas:
- Western Visayas: Folk dances from this region display grace, elegance, and strong rhythmic patterns. They may involve props such as fans, bamboo poles, and scarves. Examples include:
- Dinagyang (Iloilo)
- Ati-atihan (Aklan)
- Central Visayas: Dances from this region are energetic, lively, and sometimes comical. They often incorporate fast footwork and synchronized movements. Examples include:
- Sinulog (Cebu)
- Subli (Bohol)
- Eastern Visayas: Dances from this region have indigenous influences and often involve intricate hand and body movements. They may feature props like coconut shells, bamboo stamps, and gongs. Examples include:
- Waray-Waray (Samar and Leyte)
- Pintados de Tacloban (Leyte)
3. Mindanao:
- Western Mindanao: Folk dances from this region exhibit strong Islamic and indigenous influences. They may incorporate props such as swords, shields, and colorful costumes. Examples include:
- Singkil (Maguindanao)
- Pangalay (Sulu)
- Central Mindanao: Dances from this region are usually performed during festivals and reflect the rich cultural heritage of indigenous tribes. They often involve storytelling elements and intricate dance movements. Examples include:
- Maguindanaoan Dancing (Maguindanao)
- Kalatong (B'laan)
- Eastern Mindanao: Dances from this region are known for their tribal roots and are often linked to rituals, celebrations, and special occasions. They may involve colorful costumes, props, and rhythmic movements. Examples include:
- Kadal Tahaw (T'boli)
- Igal (Manobo)
It's important to note that these classifications provide a broad categorization of Filipino folk dances based on their geographical origins, but there may be variations and specific dances that might be unique to certain provinces, towns, or cultural communities within each region.