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FILIPINO VALUES AND THE FAMILY This module entitled Introduction of Filipino Values and Family is about how values in the family is pass on different generations and how it is practice at present time. The module also contains the different customs and tradition the modern Filipino family has and practice in this modern period. This module provided you with fun and meaningful opportunities for guided and independent learning at your own pace and time. I. Objectives At the end of this module, you will: 1. Identify the different structure of Filipino family; 2. Enumerate the different values that were practice by Filipino families; and 3. Appreciate the different Filipino family values. II. Lecture/Discussions of Lesson/s What I Need To Know? Filipino Values and Family Family - The basic social unit consisting of the parents and their children, considered as a group, whether dwelling together or not. - Two or more people who share goals and values, have long-term commitments to one another and reside usually in the same dwelling. Structure of Filipino Family ∙ Filipino family is a family of Philippine origin. Philippine family exhibit Filipino cultures, customs, traits and values of which the most important values is family closeness ∙ The typical Filipino family consists of a husband, wife and children, extending to include grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. This circle is often enlarged with the selection of child’s godparents. 1. Nuclear Family - consist of father, mother, and children 2. Extended Family - consist of father, mother, children, and other close relatives, often living in close proximity. 3. Joint Family - composed of parents, their children, and the children’s spouses and offspring in one household
∙ Blood Kinship is very important in the Filipino Family ∙Family alliance is further extended by the “Compadre System” ∙ Filipino Family is said to be patriarchal in authority, however studies reveal that the Filipino Family is not “Patriarchal” but eligitarian. ∙ Filipinos practice endogamy, the custom of marrying only within the limits of a local community ✔ Same Tribe ✔ Same Religion ✔ Same Clan ∙ In marriage, Monogamy is the norm. Although polygamy is allowed among the Muslims. Filipino Family Values ∙ Values formation which is vital to the socialization skills of an individual can be developed and nurtured in the family, school and environment. ∙ Values may include obtaining knowledge, wisdom and necessary skills, using them in your home and living out the values you acquired within the family. ∙ The Filipino family has values that have been treasured and passed on for many generations already. These values are believed to be beneficial as it fulfill some of the basic needs of people. Here are some of the family values Filipinos have: 1. Paggalang (Respect) It means being respectful or giving due respect for a person. Filipinos are accustomed to using the words “po” , “opo” and “ho” when they are conversing with older people or sometimes to people with higher positions or status in the society. In addition the used of words “kuya” and “ate” of younger siblings to older siblings. “Pagmamano” and kissing the hands of the elders is also a form of Paggalang in Filipino culture. 2. Pakikisama (Helping others) The yearning of Filipinos to be accepted and liked by his friends, colleagues, boss and even relatives. The word pakikisama means helping others, this trait usually fosters cooperation and doing good deeds which are favorable to other people. Filipinos get along with different kinds of people. They can easily adjust to any situation and are flexible. This trait fosters cooperation, good and helpful deeds. When their neighbors are in trouble, they will help them in whatever they can. They also do not let their family members go through hard times alone, instead, they help each other. 2 3. Utang na Loob (Debt of Gratitude) Usually a system of obligation, when applied it gives duty and responsibility on the part of the young siblings to serve and repay the favors done to them sooner or later. Filipinos know how to repay other people. When someone helped us, we return the favors with goodness.
4. Pagpapahalaga sa Pamilya (Family-oriented) This implies that a person will put a high regards and concerns over the family before anything else. This is the reason why a family member will seek employment abroad just to earn decent earnings for the family, to meet the family’s basic needs and want. Filipinos are known for having strong and close family ties. They place high regard and put importance on their family before anything else. They work all day and do all they can to feed and provide for their family. In other countries, when a person turned 18, he/she can live away from his/her family. In the Philippines, they value their family so much that they keep them intact through the years. 5. Hiya (Shame) This controls the social behavior of Filipinos. It is a value that makes a Filipino be obedient and be respectful to parents, older siblings and authorities. It is also a key ingredient to the loyalty of one’s family. Hiya is also related to “pride” and is connected too self-esteem or self-image. It occurs in many instances, such as not being able to pay a bill, provide for one’s family, or being generally unreliable. 6. Hospitality One of the most popular qualities Filipinos have is that they are very hospitable. When there are visitors at home, they will do a lot of preparations for good entertainment and accommodation so that they will feel at home and enjoy the stay. When there is an occasion at home, there are a lot of food and you can expect to have take-outs (pabalot) after. 3 7. Love and Happiness In a Filipino family, our parents usually cook for us, that’s what one of the ways on how they show their love. Also, through good and bad times, Filipinos always find a way to smile and be happy. Whatever the problem is, we are always reminded that our family’s always there to love and support us no matter what. Filipino values will prevail even if years will pass by. It will never be removed because it serves as a distinction among other race. Definitely, it’s more fun in the Philippines and it’s the best to be part of Filipino family. Filipino Family Customs and Traditions ∙ The Filipino family is very traditional people. They believe in many different kinds of customs and follow lots of various traditions. ∙ The Filipino people are known to have close family ties. This is why you may notice that the people in a vicinity most of the time know each other. Whether short or long and distant, the Filipino family will choose to live close to each other.
∙ If they would have to move out to a new house, the homeowner will be asked to throw some coins when he opens the front door. This is said to bring good luck and prosperity to the household. ∙ The first things one should carry into a new home on the day they will transfer are rice and salt. ∙ The number of people sleeping in a new house the first night should be the same for nine consecutive days. Otherwise, death will occur in that house. ∙ When doves and pigeons leave a house, it is a sign that there is no harmony there, because its owners quarrel all the time. ∙ If you wish to rid your home of unwanted visitors, secretly sprinkle salt around the house and they will soon depart. ∙ The Filipino people are very religious as well. Therefore, there are quite a lot of Filipino culture, customs and traditions for the home and family that is based on religious beliefs. ∙ During the morning, it is also customary for Filipino people to open their east window. This is said to bring God’s grace inside the house through the sun.