Top 10 Weird Filipino Traditions That Most Foreigners Will Not Understand 

The Philippines has diverse cultures and traditions, with over 100 million people living on over 7,000 islands. It is a fascinating place to explore, and the Filipino people are known for their hospitality and friendly welcome. As with any culture, some weird traditions have been passed down through generations. Here is a list of the top 10 weird traditions in the Philippines.

1. Eating Food From the Ground – The traditional Filipino practice of eating food from the ground is known as “Kamayan.” It is an ancient practice that was commonly done during festivals and other special occasions. It involves eating with your hands, using banana leaves as a substitute for plates and utensils.

2. Burial of the Dead – The practice of burying the dead has been a common practice in the Philippines for centuries. In many regions, the body is placed in a coffin and buried in a shallow grave. In other areas, the body is placed in a basket or a hammock and then buried in the ground.

3. Sumpa Ritual – The Sumpa ritual is a traditional Filipino practice that is used to ward off evil spirits. It involves an individual sprinkling a mixture of salt, garlic, and water around the house or area where the evil spirit is believed to be.

4. Eating with the Left Hand – Eating with the left hand is considered to be taboo in the Philippines. It is thought that the left hand is associated with the devil and should not be used to eat.

5. Wearing Black During Funerals – During funerals, it is customary to wear black in the Philippines. It is believed that wearing black will help the deceased to find peace in the afterlife.

6. Superstitions – Superstitions are common in the Philippines. Some of the most popular superstitions include avoiding walking under ladders or stepping on cracks in the sidewalk.

7. The “Mano” Ritual – The “Mano” ritual is a traditional Filipino gesture of respect. It involves touching the forehead of an elder with the back of the hand to show respect.

8. The “Bungi” Ritual – The “Bungi” ritual is a traditional Filipino practice that involves taking a bite out of a banana before eating it. This is believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits.

9. “Kasal” or Wedding Customs – The traditional Filipino wedding customs are known as “Kasal”. It involves a series of rituals and ceremonies that are meant to symbolize the union of two people.

10. Cross Dressing – Cross dressing is an accepted tradition in the Philippines. Men often dress up as women for special occasions and festivals.

These are just some of the considerable weird traditions that are still practiced in the Philippines today. From eating with your hands to cross-dressing, there are many unique customs that make the Filipino culture unique and interesting. These traditions are what make the Philippines a fascinating place to visit and explore.