Culture of the Philippines carvings on housings called torogan. Weapons made by Muslim Filipinos such as the "kampilan" are skillfully carved. Philippine folk dances include the Tinikling and Cariñosa. In the southern region of Mindanao, Singkil is a popular dance showcasing the story of a prince and princess in the forest. Bamboo poles are arranged in a tic-tac-toe pattern in which the dancers exploit every position of these clashing poles. The early music of the Philippines featured a mixture of Indigenous, Islamic and a variety of Asian sounds that flourished before the European and American colonization in the 16th and 20th centuries. Spanish settlers
National Dance Association recognizing, and promoting dance education within schools and communities. Nu Delta Alpha chapters were designated for middle through high school, college through professional levels, private studios, and preparatory and home schools. Affiliation with Nu Delta Alpha provided students and professionals with the opportunity to advocate for dance education. NDA is governed by a Board of Directors. The Heritage Award recognized individuals who made outstanding contribution of national or international significance to dance in the following categories: "Teaching excellence; Establishment or administration of a functioning dance department, center or program; Research or publication; Consulting; Choreography; Performance; Notation; or Related Arts". The