Before having portable playstations or cellphones, the so-called aunties and uncles of Manila – Batang 90s – have a completely different kind of childhood as compared to the present generation.

If you are curious about the games they played, read these 5 insanely memorable Filipino games played by the Batang 90s.

1990s Street Games Spark Nostalgia on Social Media

Netizens found amusement in the Department of Education’s tribute to 1990s street games, which sparked nostalgia on social media.

“Mga batang 90’s, say present! 👋 Alin sa mga larong kalye ang miss nyo na? 😁” DepEd said in their Facebook post.

Some of the games mentioned include tagu-taguan (hide-and-seek), tumbang preso (knock down the can), doktor kwak-kwak (a role-playing doctor game), patintero (a tag-like game with crossing lines), and Chinese garter (a jumping game using a garter as a hurdle).

These games are staples of childhood fun in the Philippines and often evoke fond memories of simpler times.

Netizens Shared the Good Old Days

Here are the netizens’ comments:

“Lahat po yan!”

“Lahat!”

“I miss all except Chinese garter. Takot sa pagtumbling dati. Miss ko din ang piko at sikyo.”

“All of the above.”

“Lahat po, batang 90s marupok na rin ba tuhod nyo?”

“lahat nang laro po at sana ma ingganyo ang mga kabataan ngayun na mag try sa laro nuon natin hindi puro gadget nalang ngayun”

“Only the old one will appreciate most of this. But millennials takestime to perform this. Time consuming in part of instructions since where given only 45min.”

“patintero kahit sa gabi basta maliwanag ang buwan naglalaro kami sa kalsada.”

Popular Games Played by Batang 90s

Tagu-taguan Game

In tagu-taguan game, one player, called “it,” counts to a predetermined number with their eyes closed while the other players hide. Once the counting is finished, the player who is “it” tries to find the hidden players.

The first person caught becomes “it” in the next round. It is a simple yet thrilling game that fosters creativity in finding hiding spots and quick thinking to avoid being tagged​.

The rules can vary slightly depending on the group of children playing, but the basic premise remains the same: seek and hide!

Tumbang Preso

Tumbang preso is a traditional Filipino street game that is both fun and active.

The game involves two main roles: the taga (the “it” or “guard”) and the other players who try to knock down a tin can or similar object.

Doktor Kwak-Kwak

Doktor Kwak-Kwak is a traditional Filipino children’s game that combines role-playing with running and evading.

The name “Kwak-Kwak” refers to the sound made by the player pretending to be a doctor (sometimes associated with the quacking of a duck, suggesting a playful and silly element). The game emphasizes teamwork and quick reflexes, with a bit of playful acting involved.

Similar to many other Filipino street games, Doktor Kwak-Kwak is an exciting way for children to engage in physical activity while having fun. It is especially popular in informal, outdoor settings like streets or playgrounds.

Patintero

Patintero is a popular Filipino street game that involves both strategy and physical agility. The game is played with two teams, and the objective is for players to get past the “guards” who try to tag them.

It requires quick reflexes, teamwork, and strategic thinking. It is a fun and physically active game often played in open spaces, and it remains one of the most beloved traditional Filipino games​.

Chinese Garter

Chinese Garter is a popular Filipino street game that involves jumping over a garter (elastic band) that is stretched between two people. The game is played in various ways, and its difficulty increases as the garter is raised higher.

It can test agility and flexibility and a fun way to engage in physical activity. It is typically played outdoors and is a popular pastime for children in the Philippines, especially in urban neighborhoods​.