DESIRABLE FILIPINO FAMILY VALUES

Values are the guiding principles of the family members.

1. Faith in God (Paniniwala sa Diyos)

Going to church, praying together before and after meals, family
devotion at night and bible study show Filipinos’ belief in God.

2. Respect for Parents and Elders (Paggalang)

This is giving deep respect for a person. The use of po, opo, or even
ho, when talking to an elder, is a sign of respect. Kissing the hands or the gesture of
“pagmamano” to elders upon arriving in the house and before leaving is a sign of respect
or obedience, to which they reply by saying “God bless you!” This is now being gradually
replaced by kissing the cheeks instead of the hands. One way of showing respect to the
elder brothers and sisters is by addressing them as “kuya” and “ate”.

3. Strong Family Ties (Pagpapahalaga sa Pamilya)

No other persons in the world give so much importance to their families as much as the
Filipinos do. Look at how the family gathers when someone leaves for abroad, when
someone is sick, or when a baby comes to the family. Most households have their
grandparents, aunts, and uncles living with them. These persons are our sources of
affection, comfort, loyalty, and commitment. Hospitality describes the trust of Filipinos
because of the spirit of sacrifice and generosity. We are willing to share however little
we may have just to accommodate a guest.

4. Sense of Gratitude (Utang na Loob)

This is a system of obligation. When practiced in family relationships, it imposes the
duty and the responsibility to serve and to repay favors done to them. On the other hand,
it also imposes a perpetual debt on the receiver.

Accepting One’s Role and Responsibilities

In most families, the father, mother, and children have distinct roles. The father who is usually
the head of the family, has the primary responsibility of providing the basic needs, like food, clothing,
and shelter. He is looked up to with respect, love, and attention by his wife and children.

The mother, who is the light of the family, takes charge of all the details of housekeeping,
budgeting, and the needs of the children. It is her responsibility to take care of and supervise the
growing needs and education of the children.

Parents must provide their children with love, companionship, and understanding. They have to
set good examples for the children to follow and emulate. They should give them praises when due, and
encouragement when needed. These instill feelings of security among the children. However, discipline
is also a necessary component of emotional stability. They thrift, and self-resiliance. They should provide
their children with adequate moral and financial support for as long as they are under parental authority.
The role of a child depends on his/her position in the family. The eldest has more responsibilities than
the younger ones. He/She takes the place of the parents when they are not around. The middle child
assumes the role of the eldest in the latter’s absence or transfer of residence to raise his/her own family.
The youngest receives special attention from the parents and other family members. He/She must be
given a share in the household chores, which are suited to his/her age.

Children should naturally love and respect their parents. They are expected to obey their parents and the
elderly. To have a pleasant atmosphere at home, there should be obedience, respect, attention,
generosity, and cooperation among the members.