I have been able to provide my eldest daughter with her debut party during her time and hope that I can provide my younger children the same experience. Most believe that holding special celebrations every ten years after turning 50 is in order because reaching such ripe age must be considered a blessing. There are several birthday milestones observed in the Philippine tradition including the 1st, the 7th, the 18th ( for girls) or 21st (for boys), and the 50th. The last two are usually comprised of participants in mixed gender. The treasures provide 18 special gifts while the 18 shots provides for several toasts to the debutante after every delivery of speech. Pre-selected female friends and relatives shall give the debutante 18 candles with a greeting or a special wish for the celebrant. The last dance is usually reserved for the father of the debutante or any father-figure if the former is unavailable for whatever reason. Each male participant will be dancing with the debutante after giving her a rose. The 18 roses dance will require the participation of 18 pre-selected males usually comprised of relatives and friends. The members of the entourage shall comprise the participants to the Grand Cotillion Dance together with the debutante and her escort. There have been more recent additions such as 18 treasures and 18 shots. A typical Philippine debut celebration is marked by rituals that include 18 members of the entourage, 18 roses dance, and 18 candles.

The western world observe a girl's 18th birthday in less formal practices. The Philippine Debut observes similar rituals with certain modifications that will make the observation more in keeping with Filipino tradition. The debutante wears a special dress for the occasion and her guests are expected to dress as well in a manner befitting the event. Some countries have more religious tones than the others but the rites observed are essentially the same.Ī typical Quinceanera celebration follows a program consisting of the grand entrance by the debutante, dancing, candle ceremony, toast, cake cutting, and other rituals related to the event. It is also known by some other names including 'festa de debutantes', 'baile de debutantes', 'festa dequinze anos', and 'fete des quinze ans'.

It is also signifies a girl's transition to womanhood but at the younger age of 15 or 'quinze'. The Philippine Debut is said to have come from the Quinceanera practiced in countries in Latin America. It is of note however that male debutantes celebrate theirs on their 21st birthday with less formal gatherings, if they choose to hold a party for it at all. It is a coming-of-age celebration since 18 is considered the age of maturity in the Philippines.

Many young girls dream of having their debut party on their 18th birthday because it is a commonly observed Philippine tradition to womanhood.

Debut filipino