Each country has differing stereotypes and values, and the Philippines is no exception. Nevertheless, Filipinos firmly believe that their country has the best values and traits worldwide. Although a few countries have colonized them, multiple core values from their ancestors remained intact and are still honored to this day.
Filipino values refer to the value structure or the set of values historically held necessary in Filipino lives. This Philippine value system maintains its unique assemblage of consistent ideologies, ethical practices, moral codes, etiquette, and cultural and personal values promoted by its society.
Filipino people have the best traits in the world. Of course, they are not perfect, but they have excellent qualities and characteristics that everyone must be proud of. Thus, they also appreciate that these values should be utilized in their society to have a good potential in terms of working for their human upliftment and national betterment. In this article, I’ve listed some of Filipino people’s most well-known values and traits.
Helpfulness and Generosity
Filipino people are indeed generous people. Even when they don’t have much, they always share it around them.
When people from other places come to your home to celebrate with you for special occasions like Fiesta or birthday parties-there is tons of food specially prepared for everyone!
Family, friends, and even strangers can actually gather, and they’re always willing to help out and share food. Likewise, the Filipino people are always ready to help them out whenever a neighbor is in trouble.
Hard-working or Strong Work Ethic
Filipino people have repeatedly proved that they have a dynamic attitude over the years. But, unfortunately, others see this as a Filipino who is only valuable as a domestic helper working abroad to help his family in the country.
This is also evident in the national labor force, especially the farmers. Filipino farmers still want to get their daily meals to serve their families with little support, technological weaknesses, and seasonal typhoons in the country.
The government has little support for the country’s workers, but many choose to participate in small businesses such as so-called tiange and sari-sari stores, the Philippine version of the local market, ukay-ukay, or thrift shops. In addition, some operate jeepneys and tricycle transport for a living, providing cheap transportation to the ever-moving masses.
These are examples of how Filipino people deal with their daily lives, and while these employment opportunities offer only the minimum wage, but Filipinos still provide their children with a decent life and proper education. Thus, pursuing them to be able to advance to a higher standard of living.
Religion and Strong Faith
Spirituality is deeply rooted in Filipinos. Certain animism was already practiced in numerous pre-colonial societies. Islam was strongly established on the southern islands, even before the pre-Hispanic era. Religion actually still plays a significant role in society and in the daily lives of the Filipinos people today.
The views of the Catholic Church still influence the passage of some laws. Most cities still hold festivals in honor of their patron saint. In addition, there are regular non-working national holidays that are dedicated to celebrating numerous religious events and activities.
For many Filipinos, religion helps shape their principles and values.
Family-oriented
Have you ever encountered a Filipino friend or co-worker who excitedly goes to the nearby exchange to send money back at home to their families in the Philippines after receiving their month’s wage? How about someone helping her cousin go to school by paying for this year’s miscellaneous and tuition fee?
Once you visit the Philippines, you shall see one example of Filipino culture displayed in the way they treat daily meals as a chance to catch up on each other or in the contents of the Balikbayan box that just arrived from overseas. Filipinos are culturally family-oriented, and you will see this resonate in their decision-making.
Adaptability and Flexibility
The word “bahala na”, translated as “whatever happens, happens,” is one of the most famous expressions in the country. This is undoubtedly the best representation of how Filipinos value adaptability and quick thinking.
In addition, this expression exemplifies a belief in submitting one’s fate to elements in a higher power that cannot be controlled. People who use this word do not see anything wrong with it.
On the contrary, it serves as a positive affirmation that allows them to address the problem immediately. Nevertheless, those who see it as a negative trait frequently view it as a form of fatalistic submission or a way to excuse one from the responsibility of their actions.
Resourcefulness
Filipino people are highly creative and talented. They can create tools out of kitchen utensils. They could also solve problems at a snap of a finger, thanks to their resourcefulness.
Respect and Courtesy
This is often observed—not just by younger people—but also by people of all ages. For example, children respect elders by saying “po” and “opo,” which mean “yes,” when answering their elders.
Children or young adults also show respect by putting their elders’ hands on their foreheads. Filipinos also show respect at work by making a bow to their employers.
Optimism
Despite being a pathway for typhoons, Filipino people always remain optimistic about their situation. Whatever obstacles come their way, they always welcome visitors with a smile on their faces and say, “It’s okay.”
How Does Filipino Show Their Hospitality?
Greetings: this is the 1st sign of Filipino Hospitality. If you could notice, whenever you go into a store or any establishment, Filipino people would greet you with a warm welcome. They would thank you for coming over even when you do not buy anything as well.
Are Filipino People The Most Hospitable?
According to a survey, the Philippines, along with four more countries, is one of the world’s most welcoming countries. The Philippines, more than its numerous waterfront promenades, outstanding cuisine, and enchanting beaches, is also known for the hospitality of its people.
Conclusion | Final Thoughts
The Filipino traits and values set Filipino people apart from the rest of the world. These characterize them in a way that they stand out wherever you place them.
The Filipino values that come with being raised in such a caring and spiritual atmosphere make them hospitable people. Indeed, in your neighborhood, there is at least one Filipino out there who either fascinates you with their weird habits, forever smiling face, or distinctive characteristics.