This year, the Philippines commemorates an impressive 125 years of independence from Spanish colonial rule—a pivotal point in history that always calls for spirited celebrations of Filipino pride. Google, a global technology giant, has consistently shown solidarity with the Philippines, an alliance that is most visible in their Filipino-themed Google Doodles, presented not only during Independence Day, but also other important moments reflecting Filipino culture and heritage.
These uniquely Filipino Google Doodles extend beyond conventional boundaries, offering a kaleidoscope of the country’s rich cultural tapestry—from notable historical figures and icons, to the spectacular natural wonders spread across the archipelago. In this way, Google helps to put the Philippines in the global spotlight as a vibrant gem worth exploring.
As we celebrate this Independence Day, let’s journey back through some of the most memorable Google Doodles that kindled Pinoy Pride:
1. Celebrating Jose Rizal’s 158th birthday
Any event celebrating Filipino pride would be incomplete without a tribute to the nation’s most revered hero, Dr. Jose Rizal. Google paid homage to this symbol of Filipino resistance in 2019 with a Doodle that boldly highlighted Rizal’s face. The Google lettering was fashioned to resemble the iconic cover of “Noli Me Tangere”, one of Rizal’s two literary masterpieces. Additional elements such as the quill and magnifying glass, and excerpts from the novel written in the background, further encapsulated Rizal’s profound legacy as a writer and ophthalmologist.
2. The Adobo Doodle
As the saying goes, the way to a nation’s heart is through its stomach. This sentiment is echoed in Google’s colorful tribute to Adobo, a beloved dish among Filipinos. Created by Filipino-American Google artist Anthony Irwin, the mouthwatering doodle vividly portrayed the delectable delight that is Adobo, hinting at its varying forms enjoyed across different households and restaurants. The artwork brims with distinctly Filipino elements, from the smiling children to the wooden utensils, and the core of the doodle comprises various ingredients that make up the classic Adobo.
3. The Las Piñas Bamboo Organ Doodle
Google paid homage to one of the Philippines’ most iconic creations, the Las Piñas Bamboo Organ, marking its 195th anniversary in 2019. This unique and priceless piece of Filipino craftsmanship holds the distinction of being the oldest, largest, and only bamboo pipe organ in the world. The elegant Doodle depicted the letters of Google transformed into bamboo pipes, with the organ making up the two ‘Os’. This doodle not only sparks admiration but also encourages a visit to the St. Joseph Parish Church in Las Piñas to see this marvel in person.
The Philippines, with its 7,107 islands, is a treasure trove of diverse cultures, rituals, and traditions. Google paid tribute to one such vibrant tradition, the Regatta de Zamboanga—a spectacular fluvial race held each October, featuring vintas, or outrigger boats, with intricately designed sails. The Doodle mirrored the event’s liveliness, portraying the vibrant sails of the vintas spelling out ‘Google’, truly reflecting the essence of the Regatta.
5. Rosa Sevilla de Alvero’s 142nd Birthday Doodle
Rosa Sevilla de Alvero, a renowned journalist, educator, and activist, is often credited as one of the most influential suffragists in Filipino history. Google’s Doodle honored her on her 142nd birthday, encapsulating her monumental contributions to Filipino society. From founding the “Instituto de Mujeres” at just 21 years old, to sparking a movement for Tagalog to become
the national language, Alvero’s life was marked by relentless dedication to education and women’s rights.
To discover more Google Doodles that celebrate the Filipino spirit, visit google.com/doodles?q=philippines.