Religious beliefs in Philippines

The colonization of the Spanish government for hundreds of centuries had made immense and momentous influences to the Philippine culture most notably in its people’s religious beliefs.

The Philippines composes of about 95% Christian believers, with 80% belonging to the Roman Catholic Church and an estimated 5% are Muslims. Other indigenous traditions and customs are still practice in some regions of the archipelago. Below are notable religious organizations:

Iglesia ni Cristo (Church of Christ) – founded by Felix Manalo on 1914. It is a non-trinitarian Christian religious organization begun in the Philippines. As of 2007, it has an approximated 5 million of active members.

Jesus Is Lord Church (JIL Movement) – established in 1978 by Eddie Villaneuva, JIL is a Pentecostal group with about 3 million members in 36 countries as of 2007. In 2004, Villanueva became one of the aspirants in the presidential election.

Couples for Christ (CFC) – is a Catholic organization whose primary goal is to renew and build up the Christian family life. It started in 1981 and originally intended for married couples. Today, CFC also includes Kids for Christ, Youth for Christ and Singles for Christ.

Religious personalities also play vita roles in various sectors of the society. From politics, economy, education to pubic issues, religion is absolutely an inseparable body that forms the Philippines together with the state. During national elections, politicians who are endorsed by one of these religious groups are believed to have bigger chances of winning because of the members’ support.

Significant part of various festivals and national celebrations are part of the Filipinos’ religious traditions and customs. Fiestas or local feasts take place to give honor to saints; one-week Lenten season observation; and the Christmas holiday is just few of its well-celebrated, spiritual practices.