First Topic: The Philosophy of Values

 WHAT ARE VALUES?

Values are basic and fundamental beliefs that guide or motivate attitudes or
actions. They help us to determine what is important to us. Values describe the
personal qualities we choose to embody to guide our actions; the sort of person
we want to be; the manner in which we treat ourselves and others, and our
interaction with the world around us. They provide the general guidelines for
conduct.

Values in a narrow sense is that which is good, desirable, or worthwhile.

Values are the motive behind purposeful action. They are the ends to which we
act and come in many forms. Personal values are personal beliefs about right
and wrong and may or may not be considered moral. Cultural values are
values accepted by religions or societies and reflect what is important in each
context.

 THE NATURE OF VALUES

1. Values are not feelings, but they are concepts.

2. Values are express feelings but they are more than feelings.

3. Values exist in the mind, and, are independent of Public affirmation.

4. Values are absolute but they are dimensional. That is, values are a criteria
for judging the degree of goodness of badness, Tightness or wrongness.

5. Values are concepts heavily weighted with emotions and influence the child’s
selection from variable modes, means and ends of action.

6. Values are primarily, ethical, social and subjective. Therefore, they are
strong dispositions of human behavior than concepts with less heavy emotional
weightage.

7. Values are based on respect for human dignity. They assume that personal
integrity is the nucleus around which ethical community and global
stewardship resolve.

8. Values are the very essence of human life.

9. Values are essential for a fair and equitable community which reflects our
respect as well as responsibility for the global environment.
10. Values are cross-cultural and are essential for the development of
community and global citizenship.

11. Values are that in which people are interested.

12. Values are the things of worship.

13. Value is the product of feeling, set and action.

14. Values are the product of human spirit and not of intellect.

15. Values never change. It is only the perceptions of these that undergo
changes as a result of ever-evolving human consciousness.

16. Values act as forceful tools for the cultivation of social good.

17. Values are caught through literature.

18. Value is a motivating force behind the individual’s thought, emotion and
action.

19. Values are integrated into personality and many times they act as barriers
to the acceptance of new change or innovations.

20. Every value is reflected in a person’s reactions.

21. Values influence every aspect of educational process.

 THE VALUE OF PHILOSOPHY

Philosophy is generally defined as love of wisdom or the knowledge of things in

general by their ultimate causes, so far as reason can attain to such
knowledge. It is a comprehensive and critical study and analysis of experience
as a whole. Whether it is consciously, deliberately and rationally adopted on
conviction or consciously or unconsciously followed in life through faith or
persuasion, every man constructs for himself a fundamental philosophy as the
basis of life, a theory of the relation of the world and the individual, and this
shapes his whole attitude to life. Aristotle called metaphysics the fundamental
science, for, a correct comprehension of it is enough to give man a complete
knowledge of every constituent or content of human experience. All persons live
in accordance with the philosophy of life that they have framed for themselves,
consciously or unconsciously. Even the uneducated and the uncultured have a
rough and ready philosophy of their own. Life without a philosophy is
unimaginable. It is only when we confine the concept of philosophy to the
labored edifices of academic men that we are inclined to think that only a few
in the world have any philosophy, or study or understand it. Even those who
hold that there is no need of any philosophy have a secret philosophy of their
own. They have a theory of reality, though it may consist only in denying it
altogether. They have a theory of the world, though it may be only one of crass
material perception, or of a superstitious belief in the supremacy of the
personalities and forces of myth and fable. We have an ethics, an epistemology
and even a logic of our own, though it may be purely personal or limited to a
certain group of persons of kindred ideas and temperaments. Under these
conditions, it is certainly advisable for us to frame a systematic and intelligent
philosophy for our life, after critically examining and understanding the nature
of the world and our experiences in it, at least so far as it is possible for the
powers that we are endowed with. And if we consistently carry our sincere
efforts, with critical intelligence, to their logical limits, we will find that
philosophies are not pet theories or private affairs of different individuals, but
from a science and an art of human life taken into completeness. We would
then arrive at a philosophy, not of this or that school, but of humanity in
general. We would reach a most catholic and flexible theory of the universe and
its contents, acceptable to all men of reason, a universal philosophy based on
experiences that are common to all persons. Difficulties and problems,
however, arise only because of our definitions of experience or of the limits we
set to it. We may limit philosophy to sense-experience, to understanding, to
reason or to intuition. Finally it is only intuition that enjoys the greatest
universality of scope and dives deepest into the mysteries of existence. A
perfect philosophy ought therefore to be one springing from an intuition of
reality.

 POSITIVE FILIPINO TRAITS

 Hospitable. This is one of the most popular qualities of Filipinos.

 Respectful. This is often observed not just from younger people but also
from older ones.
 Strong Family Ties and Religious
 Generosity and Helpful
 Hardworking
 Loving and Caring
 NEGATIVE FILIPINO TRAITS
 Crab mentality
There are some of us Filipinos who got a bitter view at competition—that if
we cannot win, then no one will. Instead of helping each other to be
successful, we even make ways to pull them down like discourage them
from taking great opportunities, or destroying their image. This is because
we want to be the only one at the top. If only we would see the achievements
of our neighbors or colleagues as an inspiration to reach our own goals
instead of considering them as threats. We should realize that the success
of each Filipino will contribute to the improvement of the country, and this
can help all of us to be successful as well.
 Procrastination or “Mañana Habit”
This is another habit which keeps the development of our country slow.
Look at the government projects which have been left undone for years. If
only they were completed immediately, then many Filipinos would have
already benefited from them. This is also true with many of us. Instead of
working on a task while there is much time, we wait for the deadline
because we feel lazy to start on them, or we want to use the time in other
things. Of course, the outcome of our completed work would not be of high
quality because they were rushed.
 ”Bahala na” or “come what may” habit
This is another habit that destroys the image of Filipinos. Instead of doing
something to make things happen, we tend to just leave the outcome to
whatever that could happen—come what may—we say. For instance,
instead of studying for exams, some students may spend more time in
computer games and gimmicks, while leaving their chance of passing the
midterms to luck. We could attribute this habit to faith, reasoning out that
God will help us become successful.
 Hypocrisy (being a double-faced person)
As a country which claims to value morality, most of us try to live up to the
standards set by the traditional society. However, as no one is perfect, many
of us are not actually able to sustain these standards. The fear of being an
outcast has forced a lot of people to live a double standard life. To hide our
failure in following a norm, we tend to be condemning to those who are
caught red handed. A perfect example could be the criticisms faced by those
who become pregnant outside marriage. The sad fact behind this scenario is
that some of these critics could have actually engaged in premarital sex too
—only that no proof is visible.
 Ningas cogon
In Spanish, “ningas cogon” means a burning cogon grass. This flaming grass
quickly burns out—and this best describes one of the worst Filipino traits.
Most of us are very good at this. We are excellent at starting projects or idea
execution. Nevertheless, after a few hours or days, we lose the excitement,
and we become too lazy to finish what we have started.
 Filipino time (tardiness)
Instead of being something to be proud of, ‘Filipino time’ brings a negative
impression to our people. The Filipino time is usually associated with
tardiness. When the invitation says the program will start at 7pm, it is
expected to begin at 9pm. When the date is set at 3pm, the partner will
arrive at 5 o’ clock. This has not only caused conflicts in relationships, it
also discourages others including foreigners from getting involved in
supposedly productive activities as too much time can be wasted on waiting.
 Gossiping
Filipinos are fond of talking about others’ business. It is not true that only
women are into gossiping. Even men can also be nosy on other people’s
lives. Sadly, this does not bring any good to the subjects. Secrets are
brought out; failures and flaws are emphasized; and relationships are
destroyed. Worse, as gossips are passed around, they tend to be twisted
until the final story becomes too far from the original—thus, causing more
damage.
 Blaming others (irresponsibility)
We, Filipinos, can sometimes be too self-righteous. When mistakes happen,
we do not want to take the blame, so instead we point at others. This shows
how we can be irresponsible for our actions. This attitude destroys team
work, and reliability becomes an issue. This habit is also popular among our
public officials. I know you know what happened during the Yolanda crisis.
The rescue and rehabilitation operations in the Yolanda affected areas
became slow, courtesy of the blaming habits of our politicians in position.
 Inconsideration (being thoughtless of others)
This habit could be a result of having too many things on mind—have to
find money for kids’ tuition, need to look for a better job, stress over a
drunkard or unfaithful spouse, and other problems. We become insensitive
to the needs of other people because we need to focus on ourselves first.
However, this country could be an easier place to live in if we were
thoughtful enough to show kindness to one another. These problems will be
easier to deal with if we will help each other get over them.
 Ignoring or not following simple rules and instructions
Laws and regulations are created to make communities harmonious.
However, how can we achieve that peaceful neighborhood if we cannot even
follow the simplest rules like crossing on the pedestrian lane and not
loitering around? It is not enough that we demand change in our
government. We should also strive to start change in ourselves by being
disciplined citizens even in the smallest ways.
 Attention grabbing (being an ‘epal’)
It is natural for Filipinos to attract attention by standing out as we are a fun
and people loving race. Nevertheless, it is a different thing to be
an “epal” or “kapalmuks”—simply, being an attention grabber. Sometimes,
in our desperate need to be the center of attention, we do things that are
already embarrassing like butting in conversations as a know-it-all or by
 being scandalous. This habit is also common to our politicians. Instead of
prioritizing their duty to give the best service to the people, they rather
prioritize their thick faces to grab attention that will bring them more
chance of winning in the next election. But thanks to our vigilant netizens,
this kind of politicians earn more shame than fame.
 Being onion-skinned or too sensitive
Another habit or attitude that we need to change is our being too prideful
which usually results to being oversensitive. If we think highly of ourselves,
then we have the tendency to put a wall around us and that signboard on
our forehead saying, “I must be respected.” Therefore, when someone makes
a joke or a not so positive comment about us, we feel like we are not
respected and we get offended. If all people in the country do not know how
to accept constructive criticism, then we can never expect unity.
 Living beyond their means (social climbing)
One of the reasons why a lot of Filipinos live in poverty is because of
overspending. Since most people want to live an elite lifestyle, many resort
to social climbing or living beyond their means. Sometimes, some of us
think that as long as we wear designer clothes and shoes, and we send our
children to the most expensive schools, it is alright to be swimming in
credits and loans.
 Passivity (lack of leadership)
Filipinos’ lack of initiative for change is also one reason why our country
does not progress. We keep on complaining against the government and
other societal issues. However, we do not do anything about them. One of
our excuses is the lack of faith that our small actions can bring change.
However, the worse reason for this could be our lack of care for what is
happening around us. Common Filipinos also lack courage and confidence.
If you can notice it, in classrooms, churches, or conference rooms, most of
us don’t like to sit in the front seat.

Third Topic: Steps in Valuing Process

 CHOICE OF VALUES
It is freely and willingly chosen without any pressure from others.
It has other alternatives to offer.
It has been chosen carefully with consideration on its possible sequences.
It is well appreciated and prized.
It is properly acknowledged in public.
It is displayed in your behavior.
It is a lifetime value and not just a fancy act.
 Fourth Topic:
The Ambivalence of Filipino Traits and Values

Much has been said about so-called negative Filipino traits. They have
been blamed for the weak character of the Filipino; they are the culprits, the
scapegoat of our failures, or at least, the explanation for lagging behind more
successful Asian neighbors.
I propose to take a second look at these so-called negatives in the
Filipino psyche to determine whether there might be a positive aspect, a saving
face, a silver lining behind the dark clouds.
 Hiya (shame)
Negative, because it arrests or inhibits one's action. This trait reduces one to
smallness or to what Nietzsche calls the "morality of slaves", thus congealing
the soul of the Filipino and emasculating him, making him timid, meek and
weak.
Positive, because, it contributes to peace of mind and lack of stress by not even
trying to achieve.
 Ningas-cogon (procrastination)
Negative, by all standards, because it begins ardently and dies down as soon as
it begins. This trait renders one inactive and unable to initiate things or to
persevere.
Positive, in a way, because it makes a person non-chalant, detached,
indifferent, nonplussed should anything go wrong, and hence conducive to
peace and tranquillity.
 Pakikisama (group loyalty)
Negative, because one closes one's eyes to evils like graft and corruption in
order to conserve peace and harmony in a group at the expense of one's
comfort.
Positive, because one lives for others; peace or lack of dissension is a constant
goal.
 Patigasan (test of strength)
Negative, because it is stubborn and resists all efforts at reconciliation. The
trait makes us childish, vindictive, irresponsible, irrational. Actions resulting
from this trait are leaving the phone off the hook to get even with one's party
line; stopping the engine of the car to prove that one has the right of way;
standing one's ground until the opposite party loses its patience.
Positive, because it is assign that we know our rights and are not easily cowed
into submission. It is occidental in spirit, hence in keeping with Nietzsche's
"will to power."
 Bahala na (resignation)
Negative, because one leaves everything to chance under the pretext of trusting
in Divine providence. This trait is really laziness disguised in religious garb.
Positive, because one relies on a superior power rather than on one's own. It is
conducive to humility, modesty, and lack of arrogance.
 Kasi (because, i. e., scapegoat)
Negative, because one disowns responsibility and makes a scapegoat out of
someone or something. One is never to blame; one remains lily white and has a
ready alibi for failure.
Positive, because one can see both sides of the picture and know exactly where
a project failed. One will never suffer from guilt or self-recrimination.
 Saving Face
Negative, because, being closely related to hiya and kasi, it enables a person to
shirk responsibility. One is never accountable for anything.
Positive, because one's psyche is saved from undue embarrassment, sleepless
nights, remorse of conscience. It saves one from accountability or
responsibility. This trait enables one to make a graceful exit from guilt instead
of facing the music and owning responsibility for an offense.
 Sakop (inclusion)
Negative, because one never learns to be on one's own but relies on one's
family and relatives. This trait stunts growth and prevents a person from
growing on one's own. Generating a life of parasitism, this trait is very non-
existential. Blaring music, loud tones are a result of this mentality. We wrongly
think that all people like the music we play or the stories we tell. This mentality
also makes us consider the world as one vast comfort room.
Positive, because one cares for the family and clan; one stands or falls with
them. This trait makes a person show concern for the family to which he
belongs.
 Mañana or "Bukas na" (procrastination)
Negative, because one constantly postpones action and accomplishes nothing.
This aggravates a situation, a problem grows beyond correction, a leak or a
small break becomes a gaping hole. This arises from an indolent mentality that
a problem will go away by itself.
Positive, because one is without stress and tension; one learns to take what
comes naturally. Like the Chinese wu-wei, this trait makes one live naturally
and without undue artificiality.
 Utang na loob (indebtedness)
Negative, because one overlooks moral principles when one is indebted to a
person. One who is beholden to another person will do anything to please him,
thinking that by doing so he is able to repay a debt. One condones what the
other person does and will never censure him for wrongdoing.
Positive, because it is a recognition of one's indebtedness. This trait portrays
the spirit behind the Filipino saying, "He who does not know how to look to the
past will never reach his destination."
 Kanya-kanya (self-centeredness)
Negative, because self-centered; one has no regard for others. So long as my
family and I are not in need, I do not care about he world.
Positive, because one takes care of oneself and one's family: "Blood is thicker
than water."
At the end of our exposé of the positive and negative aspects of the Filipino
psyche, one asks the question: What after all, is its ideal of personality, activity
and achievement?
Regarding personality, if the ideal is a personality without stress and tension,
then Filipino traits contribute to this. The contention is that success
necessarily means hypertension, ulcers and sleepless nights. Could there exist
a state of success without these physical aberrations?
Regarding activity, if the idea is that one should engage in a whirlpool of
activity or if the work ethic is workaholism, then the Filipino indeed is in very
poor estate. But is this not more of the Occidental or Western concept of
activity? In contrast, the Oriental emphasizes conformity with nature; hence,
one should never exaggerate or overact.
Regarding achievement, if the ideal is that one must achieve an earthly goal,
then the Filipino, as a race, will occupy a low rank. But again, is this ideal not
more Occidental or Western, according to which one must always set a goal
and accomplish it?
Setting a goal is not wrong in any culture, but the manner of achieving it which
can be questionable.

Fifth Topic: Values as Good

THOMISTIC VIEW

The moral philosophy of St. Thomas Aquinas (1225-1274) involves a

merger of at least two apparently disparate traditions: Aristotelian
eudaimonism and Christian theology. On the one hand, Aquinas follows
Aristotle in thinking that an act is good or bad depending on whether it
contributes to or deters us from our proper human end—the telos or final goal
at which all human actions aim. That telos is eudaimonia, or happiness, where
“happiness” is understood in terms of completion, perfection, or well-being.
Achieving happiness, however, requires a range of intellectual and moral
virtues that enable us to understand the nature of happiness and motivate us
to seek it in a reliable and consistent way.
On the other hand, Aquinas believes that we can never achieve complete
or final happiness in this life. For him, final happiness consists in beatitude, or
supernatural union with God. Such an end lies far beyond what we through
our natural human capacities can attain. For this reason, we not only need the
virtues, we also need God to transform our nature—to perfect or “deify” it—so
that we might be suited to participate in divine beatitude. Moreover, Aquinas
believes that we inherited a propensity to sin from our first parent, Adam.
While our nature is not wholly corrupted by sin, it is nevertheless diminished
by sin’s stain, as evidenced by the fact that our wills are at enmity with God’s.
Thus we need God’s help in order to restore the good of our nature and bring
us into conformity with his will. To this end, God imbues us with his grace
which comes in the form of divinely instantiated virtues and gifts.

Fifth Topic: Values as Good

ARISTOTELIAN VIEW

Aristotle defines the supreme good as an activity of the rational soul in

accordance with virtue. Virtue for the Greeks is equivalent to excellence. A man
has virtue as a flautist, for instance, if he plays the flute well, since playing the
flute is the distinctive activity of a flautist. A virtuous person is someone who
performs the distinctive activity of being human well. Rationality is our
distinctive activity, that is, the activity that distinguishes us from plants and
animals. All living things have a nutritive soul, which governs growth and
nutrition. Humans and animals are distinct from plants in having a sensitive
soul, which governs locomotion and instinct. Humans are distinct above all for
having also a rational soul, which governs thought. Since our rationality is our
distinctive activity, its exercise is the supreme good.
 Aristotle defines moral virtue as a disposition to behave in the right
manner and as a mean between extremes of deficiency and excess, which are
vices. We learn moral virtue primarily through habit and practice rather than
through reasoning and instruction. Virtue is a matter of having the appropriate
attitude toward pain and pleasure. For example, a coward will suffer undue
fear in the face of danger, whereas a rash person will not suffer sufficient fear.
Aristotle lists the principle virtues along with their corresponding vices, as
represented in the following table. A virtuous person exhibits all of the virtues:
they do not properly exist as distinct qualities but rather as different aspects of
a virtuous life.
 MORAL VALUES
Moral Values are the worthy principles that one follows to distinguish
the right from the wrong. These virtues are considered worthy in building up
the character of an individual. Moral Value refers to the good virtues such as
honesty, integrity, truthfulness, helpfulness, love, respectfulness, hard-work,
etc.
A value in the business sense usually refers to a culturally or
organisationally accepted (or promoted) norm. Values are often espoused as the
‘moral compass’ for an organisation – the widely accepted ways of behaving
that link to, or drive, business output or conduct. Workplace values help define
the boundaries, or rules, for people’s behaviour. As such, organisational values
become part of the goals of the organisation.

 MORAL VIRTUES
If values are the goal, virtues are the way to get there. A virtue is a
characteristic of a person which supports individual moral excellence and
collective well-being. Such characteristics are valued as a principle and
recognized as a good way to be. Virtues are innate good qualities or morals
within people.
 As but one example, honesty is a cherished value, but not everyone is as
honest as might be desired. Many people and indeed all of society may claim
honesty as one of their values even as they themselves and others may too
frequently find themselves being less than fully honest. Meanwhile, particular
individuals or groups may be notable for their possession of the virtue of
honesty — the much-repeated experience people have had with them where
they were by and large honest far more often than not.
We can all value honesty, but not all of us will possess the virtue of
honesty, to be honest consistently over time with everyone we interact with.
Value and virtue both refer to the same thing — beliefs, principles,
ideals, qualities, traits, properties, attributes, expectations, or characteristics of
individuals or groups that are highly-valued, desired, admired, and prized in
society, but the key distinction is that values are aspirational expectations,
ideals or goals that are not always achieved, while virtues are those principles
or qualities that have actually been achieved and can be directly observed and
experienced in the here and now.

 INTELLECTUAL VIRTUES
“Intellectual virtues” are the deep personal qualities or character
strengths required for good thinking and learning.
To better pinpoint this concept, consider: What do we tend to associate
with good thinking and learning? One familiar answer is knowledge. Good
thinkers often know a lot; at a minimum, they aren’t ignorant. Another familiar
answer is raw cognitive ability. Good thinkers also tend to be intelligent or to
have a reasonably high IQ.
However, a person can be very knowledgeable and intellectually “gifted”
while also being intellectually hasty, lazy, dishonest, arrogant, servile,
distracted, superficial, careless, or closed-minded. These latter qualities
prevent a person from thinking or learning well. And they are
“characterological” in nature. They are cultivated dispositions to act, think, and
feel in particular ways.
These considerations underscore the fact that good thinking and learning
have a character-based dimension. They require the practice of qualities like
intellectual carefulness, perseverance, honesty, humility, attentiveness, and
thoroughness. These are intellectual virtues.
Often when we think or talk about “virtues,” we have in mind moral or
civic virtues. However, while related to moral and civic virtues in important
ways, intellectual virtues are distinct. Moral virtues can be thought of as the
character strengths of a good “neighbor” (e.g. kindness, compassion,
generosity) and civic virtues as the character strengths of a good citizen (e.g.
tolerance, respect, civic responsibility). Intellectual virtues, by contrast, are the
character strengths of a good thinker or learner (e.g. curiosity, attentiveness,
intellectual courage). While they intersect with moral and civic virtues in
interesting ways, it is important to maintain a distinction between intellectual
virtues and these other types of virtues.
 GENDER-SPECIFIC VALUE
In relation to parenthood, bearing male and female children depends on the
preferences of the parents based on the expected roles that each gender
would assume once grown up. Both genders are expected to become
responsible members of the family and their society. Women in the
Philippines are expected to become caring and nurturing mothers for their
own children. Female Filipinos are also expected to lend a hand in
household work. They are even anticipated to offer assistance after being
married. On the other hand, Filipino men are expected to assume the role of
becoming the primary source of income and financial support of his family.

TOPIC 6 – SOCIAL DIMENSION OF VALUES

 FILIPINO VALUES
 The Filipino value system or Filipino values refer to the set of values
or the value system that a majority of the Filipinos have historically held
important in their lives. Filipino values are, for the most part, centered at
maintaining social harmony, motivated primarily by the desire to be
accepted within a group.

 VALUES SYSTEM

Filipino value system is defined by the way of people live their family
as an influence of one's culture. It refers to the set of values or the value
system that a majority of the Filipino have historically held important in
their lives. The Philippine value system includes their own unique
collection of consistent ideologies, moral codes, ethical practices, etiquette,
and cultural and personal values that are encouraged by their society.

A hierarchy of values that all moral agents possess, demonstrated by

their choices. Most people's value systems differ, making the imposition of
a singular value system by the state a source of constant social warfare.
This is an individualistic concept. One's value system is molded by one's
virtues or vices.

A person's standards and self-discipline set, based on the common

sense and wisdom of knowing what the proper moral rules and discipline
are, and the amount of willingness to see themselves and others abide by
them.

Here are some of the values or values system Filipinos have:

 Pakikipagkapwa-Tao (regard for others)

Pakikipagkapwa-tao is manifested in a basic sense of justice and fairness, and

in concern for others. It is demonstrated in the Filipino's ability to empathize
with others, in helpfulness and generosity in times of need (pakikiramay), in
the practice of bayanihan or mutual assistance, and in the famous Filipino
hospitality.
 Family Orientation

To the Filipino, one's family is the source of personal identity, the source of
emotional and material support, and the person's main commitment and
responsibility. Concern for family is manifested in the honor and respect given
to parents and elders, in the care given to children, the generosity towards kin
in need, and in the great sacrifices one endures for the welfare of the family.
This sense of family results in a feeling of belonging or rootedness and in a
basic sense of security.

 Joy and Humor

This sense of joy and humor is manifested in the Filipino love for socials and
celebrations, in our capacity to laugh even in the most trying of times, and in
the appeal of political satire. The result is a certain emotional balance and
optimism, a healthy disrespect for power and office, and a capacity to survive.
 Ability to Survive

Filipinos have an ability to survive which is manifested in our capacity for

endurance despite difficult times, and in our ability to get by on so little.
Filipinos make do with what is available in the environment, even, e.g., by
eking out a living from a garbage dump. This survival instinct is related to the
Filipinos who bravely carry on through the harshest economic and social
circumstances. Regretfully, one wonders what we might be able to do under
better circumstances.

 Hiya

Controls a large extent the behavior of the individual. Dependent on others will
think, say and do. Because of hiya, a Filipino cannot say “NO” even it is against
his will to do what is being requested.

 Bahala Na

Common expression among Filipinos and this rest on the fatalistic outlook and
strong dependence on the “spirits” who will take care of everything if they are
really meant for a person.

 Individualism Pattern of behavior or Kanya-kanya (self-centeredness)

Characterizes the Filipino as self-centred. The desire to make the name for
himself becomes the primary motivation for success.

 Amor-propio

Individual's highly emotional reaction to protect his honor and dignity when
they are threaten or questioned and to retaliate. Common forms of this are
“hele hele bago quiere” or pakipot which shows at a person initially refusing an
offer even if he wants very much to accept it.

 Maňana Habit
It’s a shortened version of “mamaya na”, a phrase we usually say when we have
things to do. Basically, Filipinos are expert procrastinators. Not really a good
trait to have if you want to succeed in life.

 Ningas-kugon
In Spanish, “ningas-kugon” means a burning cogon grass. This flaming grass
quickly burns-out- and this best describes one of the worst Filipino traits. Most
of us are very good at this. We are excellent at starting projects or idea
execution. Nevertheless, after a few hours or days, we lose the excitement, and
we become too lazy to finish what we have started.

 FILIPINO VALUES SYSTEM IN BUSINESS ETHICS

Here are some of the values system of Filipinos in business:

 Filial piety
a virtue of respect for one’s parents, elders, and ancestors. In business: The
Filipino family is so intact that it is common for members of the same family
work for the same company.
 Nepotism
practice of hiring family members regardless of their qualifications. In some
cases, a relative of a company executive may be qualified to perform the job for
which she is hired. The fact that she is an executive's relative gives her an
advantage over the other applicants. But when the employee is not qualified to
perform the job, then nepotism becomes counter-productive. Your executive
staff begins hiring family members because they need jobs, But the family
members' lack of qualifications and ability can affect your company's
profitability.
 Cronyism
It is the act of hiring friends regardless of qualifications. One of the main
problems with cronyism, which you also find in nepotism, is the feeling of
entitlement that employees hired under these circumstances feel. Because they
know or are related to an executive with the company, they feel they deserve
raises and promotions that should be reserved for more qualified staff
members. This creates conflict in the workplace and can result in losing
qualified personnel.
 Suki System
“Suki” is a Filipino term which means “loyal customers.” According to Ronald
(1991), "in the commercial context, suki relationships (market- exchange
partnerships) may develop between two people who agree to become regular
customer and supplier.
In the marketplace, Filipinos will regularly buy from certain specific suppliers
who will give them, in return, reduced prices, good quality, and, often, credit."
“Suki” is a distinct Filipino value system which is rooted primarily in personal
alliance systems based on commercial relationships. Though a suki
relationship usually takes time and many business transactions to be
solidified, suggesting a suki like relationship and backing it up with
concessions could be used as a measure to build trust.

 “Amor propio”
Spanish word which means self –love; a sense of self-esteem or self-respect
that prevents a person from swallowing his pride. In business, Filipinos are not
overly fond of saying “no” and therefore a “yes” you received earlier in the day
might not actually pan out
 Mañana Habit
comes from the Spanish word "Mañana" which literally means "tomorrow” or
"an unspecified future time." Or putting off for tomorrow what can be done
today.
Hence, in business:
1. Reduced efficiency.
 2. Damaged reputation – if it gets to the point where the effects of
procrastination affects what and when you deliver to customers you are
obviously in trouble and it may cause a reputation for tardiness.
3. Missed opportunities – if you’re on top of your workload you’ll also be a
much better position to take advantage of new opportunities •
4. Roadblocks/Bottlenecks – When you start avoiding things it can interrupt
the workflow in your business. Then, an accumulation of things that haven’t
been done leads stress for you and frustration for other team members
 Utang na Loob
May be good or bad for business depending on a lot of considerations, but it
affects the way business is conducted especially with Filipino hospitality.
Filipinos in the country and around the globe can be expected to extend a
warm welcome to their guests regardless of where they come from, how well
they know their host, and why they’re visiting someone’s home.
Hosts typically provide their guest with food and entertainment and, if there’s
time, a tour around the local destinations. Before they leave, guests are
entreated to take home pasalubong or souvenirs, which often come in the form
of delicacies and local sweets.en the business person is confronted with ethical
issue.

 FILIPINO VALUES TOWARDS EDUCATION

The Filipino value system arises from our culture or way of life, our
distinctive way of becoming human in this particular place and time. Values is
essential to develop an individual and help him/her lifelong in many ways: It
gives a positive direction to the students to shape their future and even helps
them to know the purpose of their life.
The educational institute of the country plays a big contribution in
promoting values education for students to construct a good character. By
promoting values education in schools we can create a better country for the
future generations through lessening the negative attributes by teaching
values.
The following are the values of Filipino towards education:
1. Sipag (Industry)
2. Pagka-matulungin (helpfulness)
3. Galang (Respect)
4. Maka-Diyos
5. Makakalikasan
6. Makatao
7. Makabansa

References:

https://www.outsourceaccelerator.com/articles/filipino-traits-and-values/
https://www.scribd.com/doc/47116004/FILIPINO-VALUES
https://www.slideshare.net/Mr_Martian/filipino-values-65493647
https://www.slideshare.net/dancinglady023/filipino-culture-and-values

TOPIC 7- FILIPINO FAMILY,

CULTURE, RELIGIOUS SYMBOLS

The culture of the Philippines comprises a blend of traditional Filipino and

Spanish Catholic traditions, with influences from America and other parts of
Asia. The Filipinos are family oriented and often religious with an appreciation
for art, fashion, music and food.

 MARRIAGE

 A marriage is a sacred testimony of two-person in love and has a

relationship. Marriage is legal all over the world that has a legal contract
between two individuals. Marriage is the agreement for two-person deciding
to have obligation to each other and live together through thick and thin.
 Marriage also defined a person with the opposite sex and in a relationship to
become husband and wife. It is done by a legal or religious ceremony and
also in a traditional way.
 Marriage is very important not only to Filipino people but to all person who
believe in marriage and who wants to have their own family. Marriage is one
reason why many of us are here in this world. It is the beginning of two
people who fall in love and become one. The beginning of building a family
and the beginning of selflessness and unconditional love.
 In the Philippines, the family is one of the important factors and the first
priority of all Filipinos. They believe that being married to the person you
love is the step of being more responsible and giving yourself fully to the
person you choose to marry and be within your entire life.
 Once you become married you stay together no matter what happens and
no matter how hard it is being together to the person you are marrying.
Because in the Philippines even if the two couples did not love each other
anymore they still stay together because first for their children and second
is there is no annulment in this country not like other countries that they
have divorce or annulment.
 The law in the Philippine about marriage should be the Filipino who will be
got married should be at the right age or 18 years old and above. There is
no divorce and annulment here ones you get married you will stay and live
together through thick and thin.
 Filipino people believe that marriage is a sacred ceremony that unites two
people and builds trust, happiness, friendship, and loyalty to each other.
Marriage is not as easy as we all know. It is a difficult and hard part of the
life of a person to be with other people that he or she really doesn’t know the
whole personality. But somehow choosing the people you love and marrying
the person you chose to be with will give you a family that you can truly
appreciate and keep forever. You will learn how to take care of other needs,
you will learn how to love unconditionally, support the person you love all
the way, and you will learn how to be unselfish because of them.

 TYPES AND FORMS OF FAMILY

What constitutes a family varies across the globe depending on a variety of
factors including subsistence practices and economic
behaviors. Family defines obligations that group members have to one
another, both economically and socially. Generally, family members live
together, but that is not always the case.
 Nuclear family

This is also known as the conjugal family or family of procreation. Nuclear

families are comprised of married partners and their offspring. This is
common in industrial societies, but it is not the most common type of family
in the world, although the practice is spreading through modern
development.

Some anthropologists identify a second type of nuclear family, the non-

conjugal family. In this type of nuclear family, there is one parent with
dependent children.

Additionally, there is the polygymous family, which is comprised of multiple

spouses and dependent children (Lavenda and Schultz 2010; note that
Lavenda and Schultz refer to a polygynous family, not a polygymous family,
 but that term does not encompass a married woman living with multiple
husbands and dependent children).
 Extended family
The extended family is the most common type of family in the world.
Extended families include at least three generations: grandparents, married
offspring, and grandchildren.
 Joint family
Joint families are composed of sets of siblings, theirs spouses, and their
dependent children.
 Blended family
Blended families are becoming more common, especially in industrial
societies like the United States. A blended family is formed when divorced or
widowed parents who have children marry.
 Family by Choice
A relatively newly recognized type of family, again especially in industrial
countries like the United States, is the family by choice. The term was
popularized by the LGBTQ (Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer)
community to describe a family not recognized by the legal system. Family
by choice can include adopted children, live-in partners, kin of each
member of the household, and close friends. Increasingly family by choice is
being practiced by unmarried people and families who move away from the
consanguine family.

 MARRIAGE TRADITION IN THE PHILIPPINES

Traditional wedding in the Philippines is usually hard and exhausting for both
parties. Marriage in the Philippines is one of the important sectors of the family
code. Before they could not allow men and women being together until they
been married. Filipino family influences the old fashion way about marriage.

They still respect the tradition of Filipino on how people getting married. In the
Philippines, the groom will shoulder all the expenses of their wedding before
but somehow at present, this changes a little bit like the couple should be the
ones who decide what they want to be in their wedding and the expenses of
their wedding should be pay by both parties.

Filipinos traditionally follow the step by step on preparing a wedding. First, the
groom and his family will formally go to the bride’s house to introduce and
know each member of both parties. It is called “pamamanhikan” in Tagalog.
This kind of tradition is usually very special to the couple because the groom
finally asks the hand in marrying his bride to their family with the help of the
family member of the groom. It helps this kind of tradition to have known each
member of both families and lighten up the family that they become one soon.

Another part of the wedding tradition before is to ask the elder’s approval about
the wedding preparation and all. Sometimes they are the ones who decide and
choose all the primary sponsors of the couple’s wedding. The elders in the
family should also be one to serve the guidance of the two couples for building
their family as husband and wife.

Another part of the traditional wedding in the Philippines is the “Despedida de

Soltera” or it is called farewell to singlehood or stag party. The friends of the
bride usually have a night party before the wedding and also the friends of the
groom have a party of their own it is a bachelor party for the groom. The couple
has their own party to celebrate their last of being single and last day of
freedom as an individual. For the bride to be the party is strictly for ladies only
and for the groom they also restricted to men only.

Traditionally, the Filipino wedding ceremony should always be done in the

church. This the way of how Filipinos give respect to what they believe in. But
at present and in this modern-day Filipino wedding ceremony done in different
ways and different places.

Like the wedding now can be done at the beach during summertime, or it can
be in the garden or wedding hall, it can also be done in the office of the judge
or at the office of the mayor. The bride should wear a wedding dress it is a long
white gown dress that symbolizes the virginity of the bride.

Before during the wedding ceremony, it is done with the couple’s first dance
and all the guests have to dance with the couple and give extra cash to the
newlywed and pin it in the wedding dress of the couple. It is traditionally done
so that the couple has money for their start as a family. Some wedding
ceremony has a Filipino dance depend on their religion. The Filipino wedding
ceremony is one of the most important parts of the life of the two couples soon
to be married. They give their best to their wedding day. They attend seminars
to get a license for marriage.

References:
 https://lookupgrade.com/en/blog/english-how-important-is-marriage-to-
filipino-people/
https://courses.lumenlearning.com/culturalanthropology/chapter/types-
of-families/

TOPIC 8- COUNTRY, STATE AND

GOVERNMENT

The Philippines is a republic with a presidential form of government wherein

power is equally divided among its three branches: executive, legislative, and
judicial. The government seeks to act in the best interests of its citizens
through this system of check and balance.

 POLITICAL SYSTEM OF THE PHILIPPINES

The Philippines is a republic with a presidential form of government
wherein power is equally divided among its three branches: executive,
legislative, and judicial.
One basic corollary in a presidential system of government is the
principle of separation of powers wherein legislation belongs to Congress,
execution to the Executive, and settlement of legal controversies to the
Judiciary.

1. The Executive Branch

 Is composed of the President and the Vice President who are elected by
direct popular vote and serve a term of six years. The Constitution grants
the President authority to appoint his Cabinet. These departments form a
large portion of the country’s bureaucracy.

 The executive branch carries out and enforces laws. It includes the
President, Vice President, the Cabinet, executive departments, independent
agencies, boards, commissions, and committees.

 The President leads the country. He or she is the head of state, leader of the
national government, and Commander-in-Chief of all armed forces of the
Philippines. The President serves a six-year term and cannot be re-elected.
 The Vice President supports the President. If the President is unable to
serve, the Vice President becomes President. He or she also serves a six-year
term.

 Cabinet members serve as advisors to the President. They include the Vice
President and the heads of executive departments. Cabinet members are
nominated by the President and must be confirmed by the Commission of
Appointments.
2. The Legislative Branch

 Is authorized to make laws, alter, and repeal them through the power
vested in the Philippine Congress. This institution is divided into the
Senate and the House of Representatives.
 The Legislative Branch enacts legislation, confirms or rejects Presidential
appointments, and has the authority to declare war. This branch
includes Congress (the Senate and House of Representatives) and several
agencies that provide support services to Congress.
 The Senate is composed of 24 Senators who are elected at large by the
qualified voters of the Philippines.
 The House of Representatives is composed of about 250 members elected
from legislative districts in the provinces, cities, and municipalities, and
representatives elected through a party-list system of registered national,
regional, and sectoral parties or organizations.
 The party-list representatives shall constitute twenty per cent of the total
number of representatives including those under the party list. For three
consecutive terms after the ratification of this Constitution, one-half of
the seats allocated to party-list representatives shall be filled, as provided
by law, by selection or election from the labor, peasant, urban poor,
indigenous cultural communities, women, youth, and such other sectors
as may be provided by law, except the religious sector.

3. The Judicial Branch

 Holds the power to settle controversies involving rights that are legally
demandable and enforceable. This branch determines whether or not
there has been a grave abuse of discretion amounting to lack or excess of
jurisdiction on the part and instrumentality of the government. It is
made up of a Supreme Court and lower courts.
 The Constitution expressly grants the Supreme Court the power of
Judicial Review as the power to declare a treaty, international or
 executive agreement, law, presidential decree, proclamation, order,
instruction, ordinance or regulation unconstitutional.
 The Judicial branch holds the power to settle controversies involving
rights that are legally demandable and enforceable. This branch
determines whether or not there has been a grave abuse of discretion
amounting to lack or excess of jurisdiction on the part and
instrumentality of the government. It is made up of a Supreme Court and
lower courts.
 The judicial branch interprets the meaning of laws, applies laws to
individual cases, and decides if laws violate the Constitution. The judicial
power shall be vested in one Supreme Court and in such lower courts as
may be established by law.

Each branch of government can change acts of the other branches as

follows:
 The President can veto laws passed by Congress.
 Congress confirms or rejects the President's appointments and can
remove the President from office in exceptional circumstances.
 The Justices of the Supreme Court, who can overturn
unconstitutional laws, are appointed by the President.
The Constitution expressly grants the Supreme Court the power of
Judicial Review as the power to declare a treaty, international or executive
agreement, law, presidential decree, proclamation, order, instruction,
ordinance or regulation unconstitutional.
 PHILIIPPINE CORRUPTION REPORT

 High corruption levels severely restrict the efficiency of businesses

operating in the Philippines.
 Extensive bribery within the public administration and vague and
complex laws make foreign companies vulnerable to extortion and
manipulation by public officials.
 Favoritism and undue influence are widespread in the courts,
leading to time-consuming and unfair dispute resolution, and to
an uncertain business environment.
 Corruption plagues the customs administration, and fraud
routinely occurs for companies when filing import and export
documentation.
 The Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act criminalizes active and
passive bribery, extortion, abuse of office and conflicts of interest.
 Giving gifts, except for gifts of insignificant value given in line with
local customs, is prohibited.
 Facilitation payments are not addressed by anti-corruption
regulations and private sector bribery is not criminalized.
 The legislative framework for fighting corruption is scattered and is
not effectively enforced by the weak and non-cooperative law
enforcement agencies.

References:
https://www.gov.ph/philippine-government
https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/about/gov/
https://www.ganintegrity.com/portal/country-profiles/the-philippines/

TOPIC 9 – VALUES OF THE

MODERN FILIPINO

Youth of today have gone a major change. Their values have

pronouncedly changed that you cannot almost see in most of them the Filipino
values that the elders have treasured through the years. Indeed, it takes a
village to raise children.

Filipinos are still easily influenced by different races and culture. Even
without the presence of colonization and invasion, Filipinos’ way of life can still
be manipulated. This has been apparent as a result of today’s modern living.
Because of the great impact within the realms of modern technology, people
from every part of the world are highly connected from one another. With just a
click on the television, a browse on books and magazines, or a click on the
internet, a Filipino’s manners are at risk of being changed.

Nevertheless, the essence of them remained to be the same. Some of

these are the following:

 Family Orientation
 Flexibility, Adaptability and Creativity
 Pakikipagkapwa-tao
 Joy and Humor
  Pananalig
 Katapatan
 Pag-Aaruga
 Kasipagan
 Tibay Ng Loob, etc.

Thus, the parent should be aware and responsible on their role to their
children as a first teacher. The value of punctuality should be practice on early
age of the child. The value of Self-discipline should inculcate to the growing
child. Educators and teachers must be the model of discipline to produce
morally good person.

References:
https://prezi.com/phw1z3zixnxg/filipino-of-the-21st-century/
https://www.scribd.com/doc/30795390/Filipino-Modern-Values
https://www.pressreader.com/philippines/panay-news/
20170122/281625305011413
http://jar-u.weebly.com/features/the-modern-filipino