Laro ng mga batang Pilipino
Indigenous games in the Philippines, or laro ng lahi, are games that have been played for many generations and typically make use of local resources or equipment. Due to the lack of toys available in the Philippines, kids frequently create their own games using only players. There are various types of Philippine traditional games that are appropriate for children, and these games also represent one of the country’s many cultures and/or traditional games. These games are not only enjoyable to play, but they are also beneficial to your health. This is so because various games call for various abilities. These games have a significant role in Filipino culture as well. The Samahang Makasining (often referred to as “Makasining”) created and popularized Laro ng Lahi with assistance from the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, Philippine Local Government Units, other groups, and other institutions. One of the main operations of the organization is teaching these Filipino games to young Filipinos. Time-based scoring was also developed by the Makasining for the games patintero, syatong, dama, lusalos, and holen butas.
Children primarily play traditional Philippine games such luksong baka, patintero, piko, and tumbang preso. Pedro Flores invented the yo-yo, a beloved toy in the Philippines whose name is derived from the Ilocano language. Younger kids in the Philippines typically play traditional games outside with their neighbors and friends. The games don’t have any set rules or rigid guidelines. The games are played in various ways that are agreed upon by the various groups and areas. The majority of games and matches use a two-team format, allowing participants to divide into groups of a somewhat predictable size. This is typically done by having two distinct team leaders play Jack ‘n’ Poy before choosing a teammate after each match. The “win-lose” method of forming two teams is another popular variation. In this method, each player chooses a partner with whom to play Jack ‘n’ Poy, and the winners and losers are then grouped. Traditional games in the Philippines hold a special place in the hearts of Filipinos, as they are not only a source of entertainment but also a reflection of the country’s rich cultural heritage. These games are often simple, yet they bring people together, promote camaraderie, and provide a glimpse into the traditional way of life.
Here are some traditional games commonly played in the Philippines:
Sipa: Sipa is a game where players use their feet to kick a small ball made of rattan or other materials. The goal is to keep the ball in the air using only the feet and other parts of the body without letting it touch the ground.
Patintero: Patintero is a popular tag game played outdoors. It involves two teams, with one team trying to cross lines drawn on the ground while the other team tries to tag them without being blocked.
Tumbang Preso: In this game, one player guards an empty can or “preso,” while the other players attempt to knock it down by throwing a soft object, such as a slipper, at the can. The guarding player must try to prevent the can from being hit.
Luksong Baka: Luksong Baka is a jumping game where players take turns jumping over a crouching player called the “baka” (cow). The goal is to jump over the crouching player without touching them.
Piko: Piko is a hopscotch game played on a grid drawn on the ground. Players take turns hopping through the squares while trying to avoid stepping on the lines or missing a square.
Holeng Batu: Holeng Batu is a game similar to marbles. Players take turns trying to hit small, colorful stones or marbles placed inside a circle using a larger stone or shooter.
Chinese Garter: This game involves a long elastic band (often called the “garter”) stretched between two players. Other players take turns performing increasingly difficult jumps and stunts over the garter without touching it.
Sungka: Sungka is a traditional Filipino board game played with a wooden board and small shells or stones as game pieces. The objective is to capture and collect the most pieces by moving them strategically around the board.
Arnis: Arnis is a martial art that involves the use of sticks for self-defense. It is also a traditional Filipino sport and is sometimes performed as a display of skill and agility.
Bahay-Bahayan: Children often engage in pretend play using traditional house or “bahay” props, acting out family roles and daily activities.
These traditional games not only provide entertainment but also serve as a reminder of Filipino culture and values, promoting physical activity, social interaction, and creativity among children and communities. They continue to be cherished and passed down from one generation to the next, preserving an important aspect of Philippine heritage.
