Family is indeed regarded to be the foundation of social life for the majority of Filipino people. The nuclear family is the core family unit. However, bonds are often tight-knit among extended family members. People may also be encouraged to have a relationship with their uncles and aunts that is just as solid as the relationship with their parents.
Family relationships often go beyond bloodlines or genetic ties and consolidate distant relatives, friends, or close neighbors. For instance, it is common to hear people refer to distant relatives or non-relatives with familial terms such as ‘Tito’ (uncle), ‘Tita‘ (aunt), ‘Lolo‘ (grandfather), and ‘Lola‘ (grandmother).
There is also an instance a grandchild refers to their grandparent’s friend or cousin as Lolo or Lola. The majority of the Philippine population is bonded together by shared traits and values that are genuinely first taught at home and applied in their day-to-day lives.
How To Describe A Typical Filipino Family
The typical Filipino family consists of a husband, wife, and children, including aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandparents.
This circle is frequently enlarged with the selection of a child’s godparents.
The Importance of Family Values for Filipinos
Many values can be taught or given over time, arguably more enduring when picked up alone. The formation of several values is essential for the socialization of the individual. These are frequently developed and maintained by families, schools, and the environment.
Some of these values may include acquiring knowledge, wisdom, and necessary skills, using them at home and living the values obtained by the family.
Indeed, the Filipino family consists of various traditional values that have already been treasured and passed on for multiple generations. These values are incredibly beneficial to them.
9 Family Values That Define Filipinos
Respect for others, utang na loob, hiya, and pakikisama make a Filipino an individual with a unique moral commitment to treat each other, resulting in community ties.
Moreover, these values make Filipinos hospitable, polite & loyal, and friendly.
So, in general, the Filipino core values influence how they behave in some situations.
1. Filipino People Value Culture And Traditions
For Filipino people, traditions in their families and their homes are significant. Therefore, they usually set aside a specific day for celebrations such as reunions, birthday parties, festivals, etc. And yes, each gathering is dedicated to keeping up with one another over tons of food.
2. Pagpapahalaga sa Pamilya (Family-oriented or Prioritizing Family)
Filipinos are known for having solid and very close family ties. They value their families very much and everything else. They work all day and do whatever they can to support and feed their families.
When people turn 18, they can live away from their families in some countries. However, in the Philippines, they value their family so much that they keep them intact through the years.
3. Paggalang or Paggalang Sa Nakakatanda (Respect or Respecting the Elders)
The translation of paggalang means to be respectful or to give respect to another person. It can also be shown to your elders by kissing their hands before leaving, saying goodbye, and also upon arriving to greet them. The younger family members can respect older siblings by calling them ate (older sister) or Kuya (older brother).
Filipino people are accustomed to using the words “po,” “opo,” and “ho” in conversations with the elderly and high-ranking or respected people in society. Using these words is expected in the Philippines and is a sign of respect when doing so.
4. Pakikisama Sa Kapwa (Helping One Another)
Generally, pakikisama has the connotation of getting along with people. The word pakikisama sa kapwa accurately means “helping others.” Therefore, this trait usually fosters general cooperation and helpful deeds or performing good, leading to others viewing you in a very favorable light.
There is a general yearning to be well-liked and accepted among Filipinos. This applies to one and their boss, colleagues, colleagues, and even their relatives. It is this desire that guides you to pakikisama.
5. May Takot Sa Diyos (God-Fearing)
Though Filipinos belong to various religious groups, they all have supreme beings in the center. Therefore, Filipino families sometimes go to church or pray together with their families.
6. Utang Na Loob (Debt of Gratitude)
Utang Na Loob means paying off your debt with gratitude. utang na loob usually has a system of obligations. Using this value gives younger siblings a sense of duty and responsibility to serve and return the benefits of the elders.
7. Kahihiyan or Hiya (Shame)
Kahihiyan actuallys means shame. This controls the interactions and social behaviors of a Filipino. The value drives Filipinos to be respectful and obedient towards their older siblings, other authorities, and parents. Yes, this is also a fundamental ingredient in the loyalty of one’s family.
8. Pakikitungo (Hospitality)
One of the most popular characteristics of Filipino people is that they are very kind and hospitable. When visitors are at home, they prepare entertainment and accommodation to feel at home and enjoy their stay. When there is an event or an occasion at home, there will be lots of food on the table, and you can expect to have take-outs or the iconic pabalot afterward.
9. Love and Happiness
In a Filipino family, parents usually cook for them; that is one of the ways how they indeed show their love towards their families. Furthermore, Filipino people always find a way to laugh and be happy through good and bad times. Whatever the problem is, they are constantly reminded that their families are always there to love and support them no matter what.
Conclusion | Final Thoughts
Filipino families treasure their values and traditions, and even now, most Filipino people still practice and respect the Filipino culture and tradition. These values will never be removed because it serves as a distinction among other races.
Filipinos may have diverse cultures and habits since it is an archipelago, and each island and region have a distinct culture, but they still have a common value. They respect and honor their family as much as they honor their culture and traditions.