Hey, hey, hey, Gen Alpha? What’s new on the block? Is there a new Roblox game on the rise? But hold up! Before you grab your phones and tablets, let’s take a quick look back in time!
Way before Wi-Fi, gadgets, and online games became a part of today’s every day life, Filipino kids were already having a blast—outside! No screens, no lags, just fun, laughter, and lots of running around under the sun. These awesome activities are called traditional Filipino games, or in Filipino, Laro ng Lahi.
You might’ve heard of patintero, tumbang preso, piko, agawan base, or Chinese garter—these are just some of the all-time favorites. Back in the day (even before your parents were kids!), Filipino children played these in the streets, schoolyards, or open fields. And guess what? These games have been around for centuries! Some even started way back during the pre-colonial times.
In 2001, a group called Samahang Makasining, together with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, gave these games an official name: Laro ng Lahi. Pretty cool, right?
There are over 40 known traditional Filipino games! Some are meant to be played outside where there’s lots of space to run, jump, and chase your friends. Others are chill indoor games you can play while sitting down. For example:
Outdoor games: Langit-lupa, luksong-baka, ice-ice water, and the classics we mentioned earlier. These games need teamwork, speed, and energy.
Indoor games: Sungka, dama, or Games of the Generals. These ones are more about strategy and focus.
Traditional games weren’t just about having fun (although they definitely were!). They also helped kids:
These games became a huge part of every fiesta or celebration. Imagine a whole street turning into a giant playground. Everyone, kids and even grown-ups, joined the fun. It was all about laughter, competition, and community.
Here’s the most awesome part, Laro ng Lahi isn’t just “fun stuff from the past”, it’s part of the Philippines’ cultural identity. It’s a piece of our history that shows how creative, playful, and resourceful Filipinos are. That’s why it’s so important to remember, protect, and maybe even reboot these games for our generation.
So next time you’re hanging out with your friends, why not try tumbang preso or patintero? You might just discover a whole new level of fun—and no battery required.
