Here Is The List Of The National Symbols Of The Philippines
NATIONAL SYMBOLS OF THE PHILIPPINES – In this topic, we will now look at the list of the national symbols of the Philippines.
In general, a symbol is used by the country or nation in order to identify themselves and differentiate themselves from other countries. The symbols are those things or species that define and show what Philippines and being a Filipino is like.
Here are the following symbols:
Official National Symbols
National Flag
The flag is made of silk and is defined as a white equilateral triangle with three yellow stars in each corner that represents the three island groups; a sun that represents liberty with eight rays that represent the 8 provinces that fought in the revolution; an upper blue stripe that represents peace and justice; and a lower red stripe that represents patriotism and valor but when it’s on the upper side, it signifies a declaration of war.
National Anthem | Lupang Hinirang
The anthem is composed by Julian Felipe and the poem is adapted from a Spanish poem “Filipina” by José Palma. There are different versions of the song, which includes the American version by Camilo Osias named “Land of the Morning”.
National Costume | Barong Tagalog (Male) and Baro’t Saya (Female)
The national costumes of the country. For the males, it is the upper garment worn over a camisa de chino (Chinese undershirt). For females, it is the combination of a baro(blouse) and saya(skirt), hence the name.
National Flower | Sampaguita
The sampaguita is also known as the “Arabian Jasmine”. The wite color represents purity, simplicity, humility and strength.
National Tree | Narra
Also known as “rosewood”, it is considered a national symbol due to Proclamation No. 652 s. 1934 by Governor Frank Murphy, which states that you require permission to cut the narra trees.
National Bird | Philippine Eagle
Scientifically known as “Pithecophaga jefferyi” or commonly known as the monkey-eating eagle, is one of the largest surviving eagles in the world. This eagle was made national by former President Ferdinand Marcos through Proclamation No. 1732 in 1978.
National Gem | Philippine Pearls
Scientifically known as Pinctada Maxima and known as South Sea Pearls, it was declared national by Former President Fidel V. Ramos through Proclamation No. 905 s. 1996.
National Sport | Arnis
Also known by its two other names “Kali” and “Eskrima”, it is a martial arts that involves the use of two weapons, sometimes bladed, sometimes batons, and it also involves the use of bare hands. The origin of this sport is still unconfirmed.
Unofficial National Symbols
Also known as José Protasio Rizal Mercado y Realonda, he was well-known for his two novels: “Noli me Tangere” and “El Filibusterismo”. There is still a dispute which determines if Rizal is worthy of being the national hero.
National Dance | Tinikling or Cariñosa
Photo uplifted from: CultureTrip 
Photo uplifted from: myphilippines
Some say that Tinikling is the national dance while others say Cariñosa. One thing is sure, as long as there is no declaration from the government, the debate still continues. Tinikling imitates the dance of the tinikling bird while Cariñosa is a Spanish dance for flirting.
National Leaf | Anahaw
Also known as the round-leaf fountain palm or scientifically known as Saribus rotundifolius, is an unofficial national symbol.
National Fruit | Mango
The reason it was unofficaly called the national fruit is because it is commonly seen in markets and a great food for desserts
National Animal | Carabao
Also known as the water buffalo, they are also commonly seen in the Philippines, hence, the reason why they are unofficially national animals.
National House | Bahay Kubo
Also known as the nipa hut, it is the symbol of Filipino homes. They are commonly seen in the provinces.
National Fish | Bangus
Also known as milkfish, is a favorite of the commonfolk as the best part of the fish is the belly fat. It was seen as the national fish but was unofficial as there is no law that would make it official.
