What Makes a Filipino?

The Philippines, despite having been occupied by Westerners, have managed to cling on to its collectivist traits.

According to Merriam-Websters dictionary, collectivist is defined as “emphasis on collective rather than individual action or identity.”

In celebration of the Filipino Values Month mandated by Presidential Proclamation No. 479, there are top traits which make a true-blooded Filipino.

Saying “Po” and “Opo”

Still practiced by a lot of young folks today, saying “po” and “opo” is a distinct trait that shows due respect to your parents and the elderly.

“Opo” is said as an alternative to yes, while “po” is often used when asking a question addressed to someone older.

“Pagmamano”

This trait is also a sign of respect to older folks, done through asking for someone’s hand then doing a bow while nearing your head to the hand.

“Pagmamano” is often used by the young for their parents, aunts and uncles and grandparents.

However, it could occasionally be used by children for close friends of their parents.

Hospitality

A reason why a lot of foreign tourists are attracted to the country — is because of the well-known Filipino’s hospitality, where they give a very warm welcome.

However, a Filipino’s hospitality is not exclusive to foreigners alone. It is can also given to a fellow as well considering the fact that some Filipinos even borrow money just to prepare dishes for fiestas.

“Bayanihan”

The trait has been practiced as early as there were people living in nipa huts.

Often shown through neighbors gladly helping out in carrying the hut to another spot, this is likely one of the earliest Filipino trait.

“Bayanihan” also makes a huge impact during times of natural disasters, as some Filipinos opt to volunteer for the benefit of those affected by calamities.

Love of God

The trait is practiced by most Filipinos, who often flock to church and hear mass especially during Sundays.

It could also be seen through the daily prayers done by Filipinos, not only in church but also in offices.

Love of Country

This practice is instilled by teachers during a child’s early schooling through the task of memorizing the Philippine National Anthem “Lupang Hinirang” and the oath to the country “Panatang Makabayan”.

Love of country is also shown by Filipinos through their protection and preservation of the country’s natural resources — or even by not littering in the streets.

Love for Family

A Filipino’s love for their families is often shown through the spirit of overseas workers, who toil in other countries just to secure a better future for their families.

Often suffering from homesickness, the overseas workers conquer it through reminding themselves that they are doing it for their families’ sake.

Overall, the traits have a common theme that Filipinos value others first before themselves.

World-renowned physicist Albert Einstein once said, “The value of a man should be seen in what he gives and not in what he is able to receive.”

With those words, Filipinos should have some high value. (PNA) RMA/BNB/JLD