Filipinos are known for their close-knit family ties and strong cultural values. One of the most admirable traits of Filipino culture is their resilience in overcoming life’s challenges, such as poverty and natural disasters. Despite facing hardships, Filipinos can maintain a positive attitude, often using humor to lighten the burden. This mindset is frequently showcased through folk dances, songs, and various forms of Philippine art.
Respect is deeply ingrained in Filipino culture, with many individuals taught from a young age to show deference to their elders by kissing their hand as a sign of respect. Young people are also encouraged to listen carefully when older individuals speak. While some aspects of these traditions may have evolved over time, many Filipinos still uphold these customs.
Religion plays a significant role in Filipino life, with approximately 80% of the population identifying as Christian, predominantly Catholic. Filipinos are known for celebrating the longest Christmas season worldwide, and the Lenten season is also widely observed, marking the birth, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Filipinos have a passion for celebration, often displaying an array of traditional Filipino cuisines during parties and gatherings. Public and family events frequently feature days of religious rituals, followed by festivities in local pavilions. These celebrations often include public dances where singles, couples, and children can participate, socialize, and enjoy live music from local bands.
Music is deeply cherished in Filipino culture, with families and friends frequently gathering to sing a diverse range of songs, from traditional tunes to contemporary hits. In the past, guitars were commonly used to accompany singers, but karaoke has since become a popular staple at Filipino gatherings.
Hospitality is another hallmark of Filipino culture, with a strong emphasis on personalism and family-centered values. Filipinos are known to readily invite guests into their homes, even providing shelter to those in need. Great care is taken to ensure guests feel comfortable, and a meal is typically offered, even during difficult times. However, this generous spirit may sometimes be taken advantage of by unscrupulous guests.
Although Filipinos possess many admirable qualities, punctuality is one area where improvement is needed. It is not uncommon for Filipinos to arrive at least an hour later than the agreed-upon time. Additionally, some Filipinos exhibit “crab mentality,” a tendency to undermine the success of others. However, this negative trait is increasingly being recognized and addressed within the culture.
Filipino Kalesa
A traditional means of transportation since the colonial eras, which in the modern days, has become a tourist attraction. Painting by Jun Roco.
Sarao Jeepneys
Jeepneys continue to be a traditional Filipino public transportation since it’s been introduced in 1932. Picture in courtesy of Doug Jones.
Farming, Rice Farms
As one of the Filipino Staple foods, rice farming is one of the many traditional practices we continue to do, mostly in the provincial areas. Over time, rice farms have expanded from 3.8 to 4.4 million hectares, nationwide. Painting by Jun Roco.