Philippines Holidays

With its aquamarine lagoons and limestone cliffs, you’re going to find Palawan just magical. As you float along the underground river near Puerto Princesca, look out for monitor lizards, turtles and all sorts of tropical fish.

You’ll be glad you made the journey from Manila to the mountains of Ifugao when you arrive in spectacular Banaue. Its dramatic rice terraces were created some 2,000 years ago and were named the 8th Wonder of the World.

From outdoor fireworks celebrations to traditional family-focused gatherings, New Year’s Eve is a big deal in the Philippines. All around the country, the turn of the year is celebrated. For guaranteed fun and excitement on New Year’s Eve, head to the beaches of Boracay or the capital city of Manila.

Chinese New Year, falling at the end of January, is a significant event for Filipino-Chinese communities. Chinese New Year is celebrated all around the Philippines, with exciting parades and dragon dances occurring in cities all over.

Filipinos uniquely celebrate Easter, devoting their time to ‘Holy Week’ the week before Easter where many people perform Christian holy rituals. During Easter, expect to see many locals re-enacting the crucifixion of Jesus. For example, you’ll spot individuals wearing crowns of thorns during the public celebration. 

Also known as Bataan Day or Corregidor Day, Araw ng Kagitingan is an event of national observance that remembers the fall of during the Battle of Bataan during the Second World War. Small parades are held in celebration in different localities of the country.

Filipino Independence Day takes place in June, and to celebrate you can witness nationwide parades. However, the main event is a police and military parade held in Manila, that is led by the Philippines’ president who gives a speech, followed by a 21 gun salute.

Many locals consider adobo the national dish of the Philippines, and the staple is popular with both locals and visitors all around the country. Adobo is a tangy, salty dish that features meat, seafood, or vegetables that are steeped in vinegar, soy sauce, black peppercorns and plenty of garlic. Then, the concoction is cooked in oil and simmered in its tasty marinade.

Torta is another popular local dish, and many Filipinos grow up eating it for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Created with simple ingredients, torta is a round omelette packed full of ground pork, onions and potatoes. Filling and delicious, it’s a go-to dish that can be eaten any time of the day.

Filipinos famously indulge in lechon, which is a whole-roasted pig. This is usually served on special occasions, such as at a fiesta or party. Cooked whole, a lechon offers flavoursome tender meat and delicious crispy skin. Sometimes the insides will be removed and stuffed with aromatic spices and vegetables, such as lemongrass, onions, leeks, garlic and salt, offering another dose of flavour.