Pangasinese in Philippines

Introduction / History

The Pangasinese people, also known as Pangasinan, are an ethnolinguistic group native to the province of Pangasinan in the Philippines. They speak the Pangasinan language, which belongs to the Malayo-Polynesian branch of the Austronesian language family. The language is used in daily communication, cultural expressions, and local media.
Historically, the Pangasinese have been known for their coastal settlements and active participation in trade and agriculture. Their region was influenced by Spanish colonization, which introduced Catholicism and European customs. Despite these influences, the Pangasinese have preserved many aspects of their indigenous identity, including language, cuisine, and festivals.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Pangasinese people live in both urban and rural settings. In rural areas, many engage in farming, fishing, and small-scale trade. The fertile plains and coastal access support rice cultivation, aquaculture, and salt production. Urban Pangasinese often work in education, government, and business sectors.
Community life is centered around family, religious observance, and local celebrations. Cultural events reflect their deep connection to the sea and agricultural cycles. Hospitality, industriousness, and strong family ties are core values in Pangasinese society.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Pangasinese people are predominantly Christian, with Roman Catholicism being the most widely practiced faith. Churches play a central role in community life, and religious festivals are major social events. Evangelical Christianity is present but represents a smaller portion of the population.
While Christianity is dominant, some Pangasinese individuals blend Catholic beliefs with folk practices, including superstitions and indigenous healing rituals. This syncretism reflects the enduring influence of pre-colonial spiritual traditions.

What Are Their Needs?

They need spiritual renewal in areas where Christianity is nominal or mixed with folk beliefs. They need holistic ministry efforts that integrate faith with community development, education, and economic empowerment. They need leadership development programs to equip local pastors and lay leaders for effective ministry.

Prayer Points

Pray for unity among Christian communities and for the Pangasinese church to be a sending force for missions.
Pray for a spiritual awakening among Pangasinese churches, that believers would grow in faith and have an intense love for Jesus Christ.
Pray for the younger generation to remain rooted in Christ amid modern influences and secularism.
Pray for the distribution of Christian materials in Pangasinan to reach hearts effectively.
Ask God to raise up strong, culturally sensitive leaders who can disciple others and plant churches.

Text Source:   Joshua Project