Shatong

A fun Filipino outdoor game using two sticks — one short and one long — where players hit, catch, and score points, much like a mini version of baseball!

Players
• At least 2 players, but 4–6 makes it more exciting.
• Divide into two teams — hitters and catchers.
• Take turns hitting and fielding.

Shatong (Short Stick)
• About 6 inches long.
• Often made from a smooth piece of wood or branch.
• Acts as the “ball” in this stick game.

Pamalo (Long Stick)
• About 12–18 inches long.
• Used to hit and launch the shatong into the air.
• Must be sturdy and easy to grip.

Play Area
• A flat, open space like a backyard, schoolyard, or field.
• Mark a small hole or line on the ground — this is your base.
• Make sure the area is clear of obstacles for safety.

Mark the Base
• Dig a shallow hole or draw a short line on the ground.
• Place the shatong across the hole horizontally.

Position the Players
• One player stands at the base to hit.
• The other team spreads out to catch the shatong.

Decide Who Starts
• Toss a coin or play “jack-en-poy” (rock-paper-scissors) to choose who hits first.

1. Flip the Shatong
• The hitter uses the long stick (pamalo) to flick the short stick (shatong) upward from the hole.
• Once airborne, quickly hit it as far as possible.

2. Catch or Retrieve
• The opposing team tries to catch the shatong before it lands.
• If caught in the air, the hitter is out and teams switch sides.

3. Measure the Distance
• If not caught, measure the distance from the base to where the shatong landed using the pamalo.
• Each stick length counts as one point.

4. Continue Turns
• Players alternate turns hitting and catching.
• Every successful hit earns distance points until one team reaches the agreed score (often 100 or more).

5. Switch Roles
• Once all players in one team have hit, switch roles with the catching team.
• Continue until every player has had a chance to hit.

Winning the Game
• The team with the highest total points after all rounds wins!

⚙️ Rules and Reminders
• The shatong must be flipped before hitting — no direct hits from the ground.
• If the pamalo or shatong breaks, replace it before resuming play.
• No throwing the long stick — only use it to hit.
• The catcher must grab the shatong in the air for an instant win.
• Avoid rough play or standing too close to the hitter.

  • Shatong (sha-TONG) — comes from the Filipino word for “stick.”
  • Pamalo (pah-MAH-loh) — means “to strike” or “to hit.”
  • Hampas (hahm-PAS) — means “swing” or “smack.”
  • Salo (sah-LOH) — means “to catch.”
  • Puntos (POON-tos) — means “points.”
Children often shout phrases like:
  • “Hampas na!” (Hit it!)
  • “Salo mo!” (Catch it!)
  • “Ilan ang puntos?” (How many points?)