mix. We are products of what we evolutionary genomicists call genetic admixture, the result of several thousand years of mixing in our island archipelago at the edge of the Pacific. We were always getting genes from everyone who came to our shores. We are, in a genetic sense, a truly global people." Religion The Philippines is one of two predominantly Christian countries in Asia, the other being East Timor. About 81% of the population is Catholic, 11% belong to Protestant or other Christian denominations, 5.6% are Muslim, and about 2% practice other religions or are irreligious. Filipinos at home set up altars in the Hispanic tradition adorned with Catholic images, flowers, and candles. During fiestas, most communities organise church services and religious processions in honor of a patron saint, hold funfairs and concerts, and feast with a variety of Filipino foods. Festivities All major Christian holidays are observed as official national holidays in the Philippines. Spanish culture and Christianity has influenced the customs and traditions of the Philippines. Every year on the 3rd Sunday of January, the Philippines celebrates the festival of the "Santo Niño" (Holy Child Jesus), the largest being held in Cebu City. Holidays January 1 – New Year's Day (Bagong Taon) March or April – Semana Santa (Holy Week or Easter) October 31 to November 2 – Day of the Dead, Araw ng mga Kaluluwa (All Souls' Day), and Todos Los Santos (All Saints' Day) where families spend much of the 3 days and 3 evenings visiting their ancestral graves, showing respect and honoring the departed relatives by feasting, decorating and offering prayers. December 24 – Nochebuena (The Good night or Christmas Eve) December 25 – Christmas (Pasko) Arts, literature and music Hispanic influence is based on Indigenous, and European tradition. Folk dance, music and literature have remained intact in the 21st century. These were introduced from Spain in the 16th century and can be regarded as largely Hispanic in the constitution, which has remained in the Philippines for centuries. Cuisine The cuisine in the Philippines reflects the influences of Spanish, Mexican and Asian cuisine. They include: Afritada Albóndigas Arroz a la valenciana Arroz caldo Bistek Brazo de Mercedes Caldereta Champorado Galantina Chicharrón Chorizo Dulce de membrillo Dulce de leche Empanadas Estufado Ensaymadas Escabeche Espasol Flan Jamonada or Endulzado Galletas Jamón Lechón Longaniza Lúgaw Maíz con hielo Mantequilla Mazapán Mechado Menudo Natilla Paella Pan de sal Pastel