The Philippines is home to many languages and cultures, but these virtues of kindness, service and care are reflected all throughout the country!
Family Life in the Philippines
Filipino culture is very family focused. This comes, in part, from the culture being collectivist, meaning group needs are prioritized over individual needs. This is in contrast to the United States’ focus on the individual. Families in the Philippines are often characterized by strong relationships, respect for older generations and, of course, food and fun!
Spending Time Together
Family members spend time together over meals, celebrations for birthdays, holidays, funerals, weekend picnics and school or community events. People especially love to express their care for family through food, small gifts and pasalubong (trinkets) or joking and poking fun at one another. Filipino people love to laugh, especially when gathered together as a family. People are especially happy and comfortable while spending time with their extended families, and they commonly return to live near their parents and grandparents after university or work away from home. In rural areas, or the provinces, many families have a connection to their ancestral homes spanning decades or centuries!
Respect for Elders
Respect is a prominent feature of Filipino family life. When people arrive at the home of an older family member, they will touch the hand of their elder to their forehead. This action, called "mano po" in Tagalog or "bisa ko" in Kinaray-a, is a way for young people to show care and respect.
