FILIPINO BELIEF AND PRACTICES

Namamana

acquiring a behavioral or disease trait from a parent. It is a belief that when a relative has the condition, it is possible that he/she will pass on the trait to the younger generation.

LIHI

s a concept used to explain why some children are noted to have certain specific characteristics

PASMA

“exposure illness” which occurs when a condition considered to be “hot” is attacked by a “cold” element and vice versa

Sumpa

the curse is inflicted by a human being.

Gaba

is a curse inflicted by a divine being and it is usually God.

NAMALIGNO

belief that a disease is caused by an intervention of a supernatural or a mystical being

KALOOB NG DIYOS

When a Filipino individual experiences an unexpected event in their life, whether negative or positive, it is typically attributed to the grace of God.

SPIRITUALITY

Filipino are very religious people. There is a deep faith in God that is reflected in the expression of bahala na—“it is up to God” or “leave it to God.”

SENSITIVITY

Filipinos are generally sensitive and equally sensitive to the feelings of others, so they try to find a way to say things diplomatically.

INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIP

Filipinos are generally quiet. Very conservative families do not allow their younger members to join the conversation of adults without an invitation

RESPECT AND REVERENCE

One’s position in society, professional achievements, and age carry a lot of weight in the Philippine society.

MODESTY

Filipinos find it uncomfortable to accept even a welldeserved compliment

LANGUAGE

Respect is integrated in the Filipino language. Reference to the elderly is the use of the third person. Hence, when spoken to assertively in a direct way, Filipinos feel offended.

SELF-TREATMENT

Filipino nurses have a tendency to self-diagnose, self medicate, and seek alternative therapies.

Folk doctor

combines traditional techniques with some Western medicine

Faith Healer

religion-based healthcare; Psychic healers and surgeons.

Shamans

Mystics; conducts ceremonies; sacrifices and offerings to appease evil spirits or witches/sorcerers

Flushing

keeps the body free from debris

heating

maintains a balanced internal temperature

protection

guards the body from outside influences

PRIVACY

Filipinos are mostly reserved and private people. As patients, they may not readily reveal their personal and health information.

PAIN TOLERANCE

Example: Filipinos suffering from severe arthritis continue to do housework regardless of their pain.