Family Values As Observed By The Filipino Family.

Here are some of the values as observed by the Filipino family and handed down from one generation to another.

Respect (Paggalang)

It is a common practice by most filipinos to show respect when talking to elders by using po, opo, ho and oho. Kissing the hands of elders before leaving the house, upon arriving in the house, after attending Mass and after praying the Angelus are also ways of showing respect for the elders.

One also shows respect to elder brothers and sisters by addressing them kuya, ate, ditse, diko, sanse, and sangko.

Close family ties (Pagpapahalaga sa Pamilya)

This gives first priority to the family above all things. The saying "Blood is thicker than water" holds true when the Filipino family adheres to this value. This value also gives life to the saying "Charity begins at home". This value proves to be advantageous when you think of the benifits derived by the family by sticking together through "thick and thin".

Camaraderie (Pakikisama)

This is a Filipino practice that is accepted and well-liked. This is reflected in some customs, like visiting the sick, helping the neighbors during parties, like weddings and baptisms, participating in the vigil or wake for the dead, and cleaning the community. This promotes cooperation and stronger relationship among people in the community.

Sense of gratitude (Utang na Loob)

This is a practice of those who make it their obligation to repay the favors done to them. The obligation is handed to the young and it becomes their perpetual debt. The receiver of the favor acknowledges with deep gratitude the good things given to him/her.

Leave-it-to-God Attitude (Bahala na)

This is a practice to leave one's efforts, faith and confidence in the hands of the Almighty. This is a good practice when a person really strive to do his best to finish what he has started and to work hard for the accomplishment of his goals and leave the rest to God. This gives motivation to a person to carry on regardless of the risks and consequences by merely assuring himself bahala na.

Shame (Hiya)

Hiya is a refined sense of propriety, amor propio. It is a positive value when a person is forced to do something for someone to whom he owe a favor. It makes him respect authorities and be loyal to his family. He does things because of hiya or because it is expected of him to preserve his personal decency. It is also for this reason that a person try to protect the good name of his family ascribed by
virtue of social, political or economic status.