Foundations of Philippine Popular Culture

Flashcards covering core concepts of Philippine popular culture: definitions of culture, pop culture, high/folk culture, Indigenous Peoples, cultural institutions, and cultural studies theory.

What is culture?

The way you see the world, think, and express yourself in daily life.

What does Popular Culture refer to?

The everyday ideas, practices, and products embraced by the public; it reflects current trends and social values and evolves with ordinary people's interests across communities.

What are the features of Accessibility in Popular Culture?

Pop culture is easy to understand and accessible to people across ages and social classes.

Local example of Accessibility in Pop Culture

Barangay fiestas with games, food, and contests welcoming people of all ages and backgrounds.

Global example of Accessibility in Pop Culture

Outdoor movie nights (open-air cinemas or drive-in theaters) held worldwide, often free or low-cost.

What is Popularity in Pop Culture?

Mainstream status because many people relate to or participate in it.

Local example of Popularity in Pop Culture

Jeepney culture as a symbol of everyday life, with colorful designs, local art, and media presence.

Global example of Popularity in Pop Culture

Street basketball’s worldwide popularity through movies, music videos, and urban fashion.

What is Commercialism in Pop Culture?

Elements created and marketed for profit, such as fan merchandise, events, and digital content.

Local example of Commercialism in Pop Culture

TOYCON PH, the Philippines’ largest convention for toys, hobbies, and collectibles.

Global example of Commercialism in Pop Culture

Funko Pop! figures and LEGO sets based on famous movies and TV shows.

What is High Culture?

Artistic and intellectual expressions associated with educated and elite sectors; valued for historical, aesthetic, and intellectual depth.

Key features of High Culture

Validation, Sophistication, and Exclusivity.

Local example of Validation in High Culture

The National Museum of the Philippines preserves and displays cultural heritage.

Global example of Validation in High Culture

The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York promotes high culture through its collection and education.

Local example of Sophistication in High Culture

The Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra, acclaimed for skilled performances.

Global example of Sophistication in High Culture

Johann Sebastian Bach’s compositions studied in music conservatories and performed by symphony orchestras.

Local example of Exclusivity in High Culture

Performances at the Cultural Center of the Philippines can be expensive and attract affluent audiences.

Global example of Exclusivity in High Culture

Vienna State Opera tickets are often costly and require familiarity with classical music.

What is Folk Culture?

Customs and practices that grow within communities and are shared through daily interaction; not made for profit, includes songs, dances, crafts, and stories.

Key features of Folk Culture

Tradition, Locality, and Symbolism.

Local example of Tradition in Folk Culture

Hudhud chants of the Ifugao as an oral tradition preserving ancestral knowledge.

Global example of Tradition in Folk Culture

European folk tales like Little Red Riding Hood and Jack and the Beanstalk from oral storytelling traditions.

Local example of Locality in Folk Culture

Kalinga tattooing (Batok) reflecting tribal identity in the Cordillera.

Global example of Locality in Folk Culture

Māori tā moko in New Zealand reflecting identity and belonging.

Local example of Symbolism in Folk Culture

Panag-apoy in Sagada—bonfires on All Saints’ Day to honor ancestors.

Global example of Symbolism in Folk Culture

Obon in Japan—lantern lighting and ancestral offerings.

Role of Cultural Institutions in the Philippines

NCCA and CCP promote both high and folk culture; NCCA coordinates policy and grants and administers GAMABA and co-administers the Order of National Artists; CCP promotes arts and hosts major events.

What is the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA)?

The Philippines' national government agency for culture and the arts, established by Republic Act 7356 (1992); it coordinates policy, grants, and promotes culture and the arts, including GAMABA and the Order of National Artists.

What is the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP)?

Established in 1966 to promote performing and visual arts; focuses on high culture but also presents folk and contemporary works and hosts major cultural events.

Indigenous Peoples (IPs) and Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICCs)

IPs are a broad legal term for native ethnic groups; ICCs are specific local communities that share common practices and traditions.

What is IPRA (Indigenous Peoples' Rights Act)?

Republic Act No. 8371 (1997) protecting rights to ancestral land, self-governance, and cultural integrity.

Which body implements IPRA?

The National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP); supports IPED and IPMR programs.

Regions with ICCs in the Philippines

Luzon (Igorot, Aeta, Mangyan, Palawan), Visayas (Ati of Panay), Mindanao (Lumad and Moro).