Filipino Tattoo Symbols and Meanings
Filipino tattoo symbols represent bravery, identity, protection, and a deep connection to ancestry and nature. From the sacred markings of the Kalinga tribe to the sun and star designs reflecting Filipino pride, each tattoo carries a story passed down through generations.
Filipino Tattoo Symbols and Meanings at a Glance
| Tattoo Symbol | Meaning | Cultural Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Sun & Stars | Represents Filipino identity, freedom, and unity. | Symbolizes the eight provinces that rebelled against Spanish rule. |
| Centipede (Gayaman) | A symbol of protection, agility, and resilience. | Worn by warriors for protection against enemies and evil spirits. |
| Serpent (Bakunawa) | A mythical dragon-like creature that symbolizes power and transformation. | Represents celestial influence, rebirth, and overcoming obstacles. |
| Mountain & River Patterns | Depicts harmony with nature and strength. | Represents stability, balance, and connection to the natural world. |
| Tribal Geometric Patterns | Signifies community, strength, and family lineage. | A mark of belonging and honor within one’s tribe or community. |
History
Tattoos have been an essential part of Filipino culture for centuries. Before Spanish colonization, many indigenous groups in the Philippines practiced tattooing as a rite of passage. Warriors earned their tattoos through acts of bravery in battle, while women adorned their bodies with intricate patterns representing beauty, fertility, and strength.
One of the most well-known tattooing traditions comes from the Kalinga tribe of the Cordillera region in Northern Luzon. The Kalinga people used hand-tapped techniques to create intricate geometric patterns, often covering the arms, chest, and back. Warriors who successfully defended their villages were given these tattoos as a mark of honor.
However, with the arrival of Spanish colonizers in the 16th century, tattooing practices declined. The Spaniards associated tattoos with “pagan” beliefs and discouraged their use. Despite this, some indigenous groups preserved their tattooing traditions, passing them down through generations. Today, there has been a resurgence of interest in Filipino tattoo art, both among Filipinos and tattoo enthusiasts worldwide.
The Spiritual and Cultural Significance
Filipino tattoos were not only marks of identity but also carried deep spiritual meanings. Many believed that tattoos provided protection against evil spirits, served as a connection to ancestors, and brought good fortune.
In some indigenous communities, tattoos were also used in religious rituals. Shamans and tribal leaders would bless tattoos, infusing them with spiritual power. The placement of tattoos on the body was also significant—certain designs on the chest and arms were thought to give warriors courage, while patterns on the hands and feet symbolized guidance and direction in life.
Even today, some Filipinos seek out traditional tattoo artists, like the legendary Whang-Od, the last Kalinga tattoo master, to receive tattoos in the traditional batok hand-tapping style.
Many Filipino tattoo symbols, like the Bakunawa (serpent) and centipede, are believed to provide spiritual protection. Similarly, the Lilith symbol tattoo represents rebellion, power, and feminine energy in other cultures.
Common Filipino Tattoo Symbols and Their Meanings
Filipino tattoos often feature a mix of tribal patterns, nature-inspired elements, and ancestral symbols. Here are some of the most well-known designs and their meanings:
1. The Sun and Stars
Inspired by the Philippine flag, this design represents Filipino identity, freedom, and unity. The eight rays of the sun symbolize the first eight provinces that revolted against Spanish rule, while the three stars represent the three main island groups—Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Many modern Filipinos get this tattoo to showcase their national pride.
2. The Centipede (Gayaman)
A common motif in Kalinga tattoos, the centipede is believed to be a powerful protector against evil spirits. It symbolizes agility, resilience, and survival. Warriors traditionally had centipede tattoos to shield them from harm in battle.
3. The Serpent (Bakunawa)
In Philippine mythology, the Bakunawa is a dragon-like serpent believed to swallow the moon, causing eclipses. It symbolizes power, transformation, and celestial influence. Some see it as a representation of rebirth and overcoming obstacles.
4. Mountain and River Patterns
Many indigenous Filipino tattoos feature zigzagging mountain and river patterns, which signify a deep connection to nature. These designs represent strength, stability, and harmony with the natural world.
5. Tribal Geometric Patterns
Filipino tribal tattoos are rich in geometric shapes, often forming intricate patterns. These designs carry meanings of community, strength, and lineage, marking one’s place in their tribe.
Modern Adaptations
Today, Filipino tattoo symbols are being reinterpreted in contemporary styles. Many people incorporate traditional elements into modern tattoo designs, blending them with realism, neo-tribal, and blackwork techniques.
Some Filipinos choose to get traditional tattoos using modern tattoo machines, while others seek out artists who still practice hand-tapped tattooing. This has led to a resurgence of interest in preserving indigenous tattoo art while making it more accessible to new generations.
Many tattoo artists now specialize in custom Filipino-inspired designs, ensuring that each tattoo carries personal significance while respecting cultural traditions.
End Note
Filipino tattoos are more than just body art—they are symbols of identity, strength, and cultural heritage. From the warrior marks of the Kalinga to the mystical serpent Bakunawa, these designs carry deep meanings rooted in history and spirituality.
As Filipino tattoo culture continues to evolve, it’s essential to honor and respect its traditions while embracing modern interpretations. Whether you’re drawn to a tattoo for its ancestral connections, protective powers, or national pride, every Filipino tattoo tells a unique and powerful story.
If you’re considering getting one, take the time to learn its meaning, find a skilled artist, and wear it with pride—because a Filipino tattoo is not just ink on skin; it’s a connection to a rich and enduring legacy.
