"Subli"

This dance is one of the most popular dance in the Philippines and the favorite in Batangas. This dance is simply ceremonial in nature and this is performed as homage to the Holy Cross. The Holy Cross is known by the locals as the 'Mahal na Poong Santa Krus', and the Holy Cross plays an important role in the development of the dance. In fact, the Holy Cross is considered at the center of the dance and without the Holy Cross the dance will not materialize.

The subli is made up of lengthy prayers, songs and dances in predetermined arrangement. The dancers are made up of one, two or eight couples. The male dancers shuffle in intense fashion and hit the ground using a bamboo stick, while the female, dance with a sophisticated wrist and finger movement.

Subli owes its meaning to native words "subsub" meaning to fall with the head and "bali" or broken. This meaning is reflected in the dance steps. The dancers move feebly and tortuously as if without vigor. This dance, however, traces its roots to Batangas where it was originally played as a ritual dance which evolved into a symbol of religious tradition performed during town fiestas.

This is one of the highlights during The "Buwan Ng Wika" at The National Teachers College.