FILIPINO WAY

Our culture is a big reflection of our great and complex history. It is product of the interaction we had from the different people we have interacted with as a nation. A blend of the Malayo- Polynesian and Hispanic culture with the influence from Chinese, Indians, Arabs and other Asian cultures really contribute to the customs and traditions of the Philippines. Our culture is unique compared to other Asian countries and beliefs applied everyday in the life of the Filipinos reveal how rich and blessed the culture, we Filipinos have. One way to understand better our Filipino culture, it is proper and fitting that we take stock of ourselves by taking a look at our characteristics and see how these can strengthen the good in our cultural values and correct what is excessive in them and supply for their deficiencies. By asking ourselves these questions we will be able to see the light of the why and how of our being Filipinos: From whom do we draw our self-identity? Where do we find the deepest meaning in our lives? How do we react to suffering? How do we commit ourselves to our ideals of life? What is our view of the world in all its depth and hidden reality?

1. Filipino’s self-identity

We are family-oriented. The anak-magulang relationship is of primary importance to us Filipinos. Ama, ina, anak are culturally and emotionally significant to us Filipinos who cherish our filial attachment not only to our immediate family, but also to our extended family (ninongs, ninangs, etc). This family-centeredness supplies a basic sense of belonging, stability and security. It is from our families that we Filipinos draw our sense of identity.

2. Meaning in Life

We are meal-oriented. (salu-salo, kainan). Because Filipinos consider almost everyone as part of the family (parang pamilya), we are known for being gracious hosts and grateful guests. Serving our guests with the best we have is an inborn value to Filipinos, rich and poor alike. We love to celebrate any and all event with a special meal. Even with unexpected guests, we Filipinos try our best to offer something, meager as it may be, with the traditional greeting: Tuloy po kayo at kumainmunatayo. 29

3. Sufferings in Life

We Filipinos are kundiman-oriented. The kundiman is a sad Filipino song about wounded love. Filipinos are naturally attracted to heroes sacrificing everything for love. We are patient and forgiving to a fault (magpapaka-alipinakonangdahilsaiyo). This acceptance of suffering manifests a deep, positive value of Filipinos‘ kalooban.

4. Life-Commitment

We Filipinos are bayani-oriented. A bayani is a hero. We Filipinos are natural herofollowers. For all our patience and tolerance, we will not accept ultimate failure and defeat. We tend instinctively to always personalize any good cause in terms of a leader, especially when its object is to defend the weak and the oppressed. To protect this innate sense of human dignity, Filipinos are prepared to lay down even their lives.

5. World-View

We Filipinos are spirit-oriented. We are often said to be naturally psychic. We have a deep-seated belief in the supernatural and in all kinds of spirits dwelling in individual persons, places and things. Even in today‘s world of science and technology, Filipinos continue to invoke the spirits in various undertakings especially in faith-healings and exorcisms.

Characteristics of Filipino Culture

1. The Filipino people are very resilient.

2. Filipinos are very religious.

3. Filipinos are very respectful.

4. Filipinos help one another.

5. Filipinos value traditions and culture.

6. Filipinos have the longest Christmas celebration.

7. Filipinos love art and architecture.

8. Filipinos are hospitable people.

Filipino Family Values

1. Paggalang

2. Pakikisama

3. Utang na Loob

4. Pagpapahalaga sa Pamilya

5. Hiya 6. Damayan

7. Compassionate

8. Fun-loving trait

Weaknesses of the Filipino Character

1. Passivity and lack of initiative

2. Colonial Mentality

3. Kanya-kanya syndrome

4. Extreme personalism

5. Extreme family centeredness

6. Lack of discipline

7. Lack of self-analysis and reflection

8. Ningas cogon

9. Gaya-gaya mentality