Filipino Traditional Games: Simuno and Panaguri

Filipino 5

The Filipino 5 is a collection of traditional games played by Filipinos both locally and internationally. These games promote camaraderie among the players while also teaching important lessons such as strategy, patience, and quick decision making. The two main aspects of the Filipino 5 games are Simuno and Panaguri.

Simuno

Simuno is a game traditionally played using two wooden sticks called batakan or kawayan. The players take turns flipping over one stick without seeing which side they will land on once the stick has been turned. Once one face is seen, this becomes the new base for counting, with the player attempting to come back to the starting point after counting three times on that face. The game continues until one player fails to come back to the beginning. This game is believed to have originated from ancient times and has been preserved in the traditions of the Indigenous peoples of the Philippines.

Panaguri

Panaguri, also known as Tik Tik, is a game played by two or more people who take turns flipping a coin with two faces, one for the head and one for the tail. The players alternate flipping the coin, trying to catch it in their hand. The game is won when the player catches the coin, and the other player must pay a forfeit. This game is a variation of the ancient Chinese game of tossing coins, which has been adapted to different cultures around the world.

Both Simuno and Panaguri are examples of traditional Filipino games that promote social interaction and teach valuable skills. These games have been passed down through generations and continue to be enjoyed by Filipinos around the world today. They serve as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage that exists within the Filipino community.