1 CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION Background of the Study Filipino culture has been known of its meaningful traditions that have, unfortunately, changed because of Western influences over time. With all the richness the Philippine tradition has, the best known culture of the Filipinos is its very own “harana” or serenade which dates back in the Spanish colonization. Harana is a vanished tradition of serenading prevalent in old Philippines. During the old times and in the rural areas of the Philippines, Filipino men would make harana (serenade) the women at night and sing songs of love and affection. This is basically a Spanish influence. The man is usually accompanied by his close friends who provide moral support for the guy, apart from singing with him (Francisco, 1974). Courting under Filipino tradition gives very big importance on the value of respecting the woman and her family and strictly adhering with proper rules set by society for pursuing a lady. It is long and arduous process of winning a woman’s heart. This practice which dates back to the Spanish times prohibits men to be very aggressive or becoming even when they want the lady very much. One cannot just talk and approach a lady in the street and ask her number or address. If a young man sees a lady he likes he should seek out the help of a go between, usually a common friend of both family, to ask the permission of the girl’s father whether he can visit them in their house. This is the gentlemanly thing to do so the parents will most likely approve unless of course the lady is just a child.