Cultural Context: Philippines

Core Values: Family, Respect, Responsibility

Home and Family: Family is foundational to social life and the nuclear family is a very common familial structure here. It is also common to have tight knit relationships with extended family. Filial piety is an essential concept in the Filipino family structure. Respect for elders is expected and their opinions are often held in higher regard than those of younger generations. Older family members are expected to be taken care of by the younger generation or their own children. Grandparents also play a role in raising grandchildren and it is very possible to have up to three generations living in the same household. Nowadays, if families are separated due to working parents or extended family abroad, a visit is common at least once a year back to the Philippines. Care packages and remittances are sent back to support the family or children left behind. 

Communication and “Buzz Words”: Communication is often indirect so as to not appear rude. It will even go so far as to use passive voice as to not come off as harsh. In the Philippines, a more polite form of speech is utilized when speaking to elders. The word ‘po’ will usually follow any phrase, as a form of respect.