Spanish Strings in Filipino Hearts
January 24, 2008
- Because the Philippines is a large archipelago, its musical styles vary from island to island and are a mixture of different sounds (such as European, American, indigenous, etc.). However, as the country was colonized by Spain for more than 300 years (1500s to 1800s), its music has an evident Spanish influence (an effect noticeable all over the country).
- One perfect example would be the rondalla, an ensemble of stringed instruments played with plectrum, which was brought by the Spaniards to the Philippines in 1800s; it usually provides accompaniment to folk songs and dances.
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Isla del Fuego: The Magical and Mystical Island
January 8, 2008
The “eerie feeling” a visitor would have upon entering the island gave Siquijor the tag “Isla del Fuego”, which means “island of fire”. First tagged by the Spaniards as such because of the swarms of fireflies harbouring in the trees of the island, Siquijor is known by most Filipinos for its “black propaganda”, which refers to black magic, sorcerers, magic/love potions, shamans, witches, and warlocks. 
Above: View of Siquijor, isla del fuego
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