As we look forward to the 122nd year of Philippine independence from Spain, we pay homage to the emblems of our society that have captured the spirit and soul of our rich culture.
We all studied this in grade school, but maybe you'd forgotten; the national symbols of our country hold much significance to both our culture and our history. As a melting pot of various international influences—Spanish, Chinese, American, to name just a few the Philippines has managed to create a way of life and a way of thinking that is different from many of our fellow Southeast Asians. Our rich although oftentimes turbulent history has shaped much of the way we see ourselves today. Knowing this, Tatler Philippines takes a look on all the official and unofficial symbols of not just our freedom, but our identity as well.
Official Symbols
Not many people are aware that only a handful of objects we think are national symbols are recognised by law. These include our national anthem, of course, but doesn't mention a national hero or national fruit. The following is a list of objects that is recognised by the Constitution as national symbols.