Bakya

 

 

 

 

 

The Bakya or wooden clogs were once the most

commonly used footwear in the

Philippines before the introduction of rubber sandals.

It became popular in late

1950's.

  

  

This footwear is made from local light wood like santol and laniti.

It is cut to the desired foot size before being shaven until smooth.

The side of the bakya is thick enough to be carved with floral or geometric.

 

 

 

 

  

  

"Bakya" means wooden shoes. They are the common
footwear of the poor in the "barrios". During the rainy
season almost all people wear them. They are made in
different materials, colors, and shapes.

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Bakya Dance   

  

 

 

This dance is
very interesting and lively. In a playful mood, young
boys and girls are supposed to be teasing each other
rhythmically with their "bakya".

 

 

 

 

 

 

In order to show this kind of Bakya Dance, Girls must wear "balintawak" and boys should also wear "barong tagalog"
with red trousers. They must all have  "bakya".Dancers are set into couples.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Partners stand opposite each other about six
   feet apart. The girl stands at partner's right
   when facing the audience. From two to any number
   of even pairs may take part.

 

 

 

Dancers put on the "bakya" as quickly as possible. The music
is not played  until they are ready.
Girls holding skirts, boy's hands on waist throughout this
figure.

 

 

Partners take off their wooden shoes and sit down in a
semi-squat or full knee bend position facing each other. Hold one
wooden shoe in each hand by the heel.

 

 

 Bakya dance  pertains a happy Filipino people dancing together,

and it usually been  danced when there is a celebrations or an occasion.