negative traits of filipino values essay

12 Negative Filipino Traits and Values We Need To Get Rid Of

Let’s admit it; at some point in our lives, we have been guilty of one or two (or more) of the negative Filipino traits listed below. Although these negative traits do not diminish the fact that Filipinos are fantastic people, it’s sad that they have continued to pull us down personally and as a nation.

Therefore, for the good of ourselves and our country, we must discard the following negative Filipino traits and values:

Table of Contents

1. crab mentality.

Simply put, this refers to the behavior of preventing someone from achieving something due to jealousy or envy. Instead of praising or rendering assistance, someone with a crab mentality would think, “if I can’t have it, then you can’t as well,” and will purposely try to bring his/her victim down. And nothing ever gets accomplished, just like the crabs who could have escaped from the bucket if they only stopped pulling each other down.

2. Ningas-Kugon

One reason we sometimes exert half-hearted effort in our undertakings is this attitude. Translated to “burning cogon grass” in English, this idiom illustrates how Filipinos exhibit great enthusiasm at the beginning of a project. Our eagerness, however, fades away just as quickly as the fire is extinguished, leaving our work either half-baked or unfinished.

Also Read: 11 Filipino Slang Words With Surprising Origins

3. Mañana Habit

Ironically, the Spanish would accuse Filipinos of being lazy when they taught us the ma ña na habit in the first place. Known as “tomorrow” in English, the practice encourages procrastination, an “ability” we Filipinos have since turned into an art form. Even the most urgent of projects and tasks can be relegated to some other time; we are only forced to work on them when the deadline is near. It’s a miracle we get things done in this country.

4. Filipino Time

Regarding the mañana habit, Filipino time refers to the Filipinos’ unique brand of time, which is minutes or hours behind the standard time. In other words, we tend not to observe punctuality at all. This behavior usually drives time-observant foreigners crazy.

While we Filipinos, with our easy-going ways, have somewhat become used to Filipino time, it still is a bad habit that needs to be dropped.

Also Read: The Intriguing History of ‘Filipino Time’

5. Being Onion-Skinned ( Balat Sibuyas )

We Filipinos are famous for being onion-skinned or easily slighted at perceived insults. While it’s perfectly normal for us to taunt and criticize others, we can’t handle the same when it’s being hurled back at us.

Incidents showcasing our extra-sensitivity to insults usually involve a foreigner making either a bonafide racist remark or a humorous jab at us Filipinos. True to form, our reactions range from righteous indignation to excessive grandstanding. While it is alright to feel incensed, throwing a fit in front of the world would inevitably do us no good.

6. General Disregard For Rules

Why is it so hard for Filipinos to obey the rules? This social phenomenon is not exclusive to hardened criminals either—a look at everyday life in the country shows Filipinos from the entire social strata nonchalantly breaking the rules, whether as benign as jaywalking or as dangerous as beating the red light.

Also Read: 27 Things You’ll Only See in the Philippines

An interesting theory is that Filipinos’ penchant for law-breaking goes beyond mere lack of discipline or failure to implement the rules. It is something that is ingrained in our very culture. Being oppressed under the yoke of colonization for such a long time made our ancestors defiant of the rules they believed to be discriminatory.

Although such “self-righteous disobedience” may have been alright during their time, the behavior would continue to manifest among the later Filipinos, resulting in an utter lack of respect for the rules.

7. Colonial Mentality

One of the most significant flaws we have as a nation is our colonial mentality, a preference for all things foreign over our own, a negative trait we acquired from our days under the Spanish and the Americans. As a result, we Filipinos have been imbued with the misconception that our culture is inferior to our past colonizers.

Glaring examples of colonial mentality include patronizing foreign instead of local brands, favoring foreign values over our own, and even desiring to look more “Western” (think whitening products) .

If we can’t even have pride in our own country, we will be stuck with this self-defeating mentality.

8. Balikbayan Box Mentality

While there is nothing wrong with giving gifts to one’s family and friends (we Filipinos highly value them), it becomes a different matter when said family and friends misconstrue or abuse the OFW’s generosity.

This has become known as the “Balikbayan box mentality” in local parlance . People ingrained with this mentality either become exploitative or jealous of the success of the OFW, not knowing that he/she is working hard away from their loved ones in a foreign country. Some also believe the practice undoubtedly contributes to the Filipinos’ colonial mentality.

9. Bahala Na Attitude

Roughly translated as “come what may,” Filipinos’ version of fatalism is the belief in leaving everything to the hands of fate.

While not inherently detrimental, this attitude is still a double-edged sword. On the one hand, positive aspects of this behavior include belief in Divine Providence and national social responsibility. On the other hand, the attitude can also promote a sense of helplessness and resignation of one’s fate at the local level and a countrywide lack of empathy and collective action on the national level.

This is also why we tend to have amnesia over past wrongdoings committed by our leaders.

10. Corruption

One of the biggest social ills our country has continued to face since time immemorial is the issue of corruption. Let’s face it, our “culture of corruption” is embedded deep within our system and reinforced by a complex web of economic and social factors, which include personal ambitions and a twisted sense of loyalty to friends and kin. The Philippines is in for a long haul if our officials and we do not eliminate this harmful habit.

11. Maintaining Double Standards

This behavior can be observed in just about every sector of Philippine society, with the most common example being the condemnation of an adulterous woman while applauding a polygamous man. On the national scale, we see politicians spouting promises of reform and good governance only to break them. Long story short, some Filipinos are hypocrites to the core.

Related Article: 15 Weird Laws Filipinos Still Have To Live With

12. Excessive Partying

Now there’s nothing wrong with enjoying a fiesta and party now and then; it’s just that we Filipinos tend to overdo it. 

Birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, and even sad funerals are celebrated by Filipinos like there is no tomorrow. Sometimes we even make up the slightest of reasons so that we can have an excuse to party. Moreover, a host would sometimes even strain his finances to impress his guests .

As for fiestas, every LGU down to the smallest barangay in the country has a fiesta to celebrate. As we said, it’s alright to party, but we should focus on austerity and working hard first.

Written by FilipiKnow

in Facts & Figures

Last Updated April 13, 2023 10:33 AM

FilipiKnow strives to ensure each article published on this website is as accurate and reliable as possible. We invite you, our reader, to take part in our mission to provide free, high-quality information for every Juan. If you think this article needs improvement, or if you have suggestions on how we can better achieve our goals, let us know by sending a message to admin at filipiknow dot net

Browse all articles written by FilipiKnow

Copyright Notice

All materials contained on this site are protected by the Republic of the Philippines copyright law and may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, displayed, published, or broadcast without the prior written permission of filipiknow.net or in the case of third party materials, the owner of that content. You may not alter or remove any trademark, copyright, or other notice from copies of the content. Be warned that we have already reported and helped terminate several websites and YouTube channels for blatantly stealing our content. If you wish to use filipiknow.net content for commercial purposes, such as for content syndication, etc., please contact us at legal(at)filipiknow(dot)net

• SAUDI ARABIA

• OFW Profiles
• Transportation
• Money Remittance
• OFW Families
• Domestic Workers
• Philippine Government

Short-sighted

Some Filipinos prefer to receive a few hundred pesos, two kilos of rice, or a shirt printed with a mug shot of an aspiring politician in exchange for votes running for office rather than resist temptation and bond together for a better society and governance.

Yet they are the first to complain of poor governance, regardless of who the Philippine president is. Poor tricycle drivers are allowed to ply dangerous streets, risking the lives and limbs of passengers, to earn a living. No wonder politicians often find it practical to plaster their faces everywhere, no matter how shallow the idea is. That’s because the more they are visible, the more likely they’ll win, even if records show they’re worthless as trash.

When going to the market, some Filipinos prefer to take a motorized bike and pay a premium instead of a 20-minute walk to ensure they will not miss a favorite TV show. They lament how a hundred peso bill can no longer be stretched.

Or they spend the whole day staring at the television, sending SMS on shows that offer prizes to ‘home text partners’. Ironically, to say that OFWs are not lazy is an understatement; overseas Filipinos are among the hardest-working people on Earth, taking jobs others would likely ignore. One thing that keeps unemployment high is that half of the unemployed are not looking for work . While not all of them are lazy, being lazy is undoubtedly a contributing factor in their lack of motivation to look for work.

Gossipmongers

Many Filipinos live off talking about the affairs of other people . Maybe that’s because it’s a major function of Filipino culture. Who impregnated a neighbor’s teenage daughter? A barrio councilor has bad breath. The baby of a close friend has a striking resemblance to the family driver.

Many folks in the neighborhood are quick at spreading rumors or hearsay about other people’s personal lives, such as their relationships, finances, or health issues. They spend the day engaging in idle talk or speculation about other people’s motives or intentions without any basis or evidence. They are very good at participating in conversations or discussions focused on criticizing or belittling other people rather than on positive or constructive topics.

No wonder many families are broken, trust lost, and friendships gone awry because of people trying to get in the way. Proof: Tabloids are selling like hotcakes.

Undisciplined

Pass laws that are easily broken: no smoking on jeepneys, no jaywalking on streets, picking flowers in the park, or peeing on fences, trees, or truck tires . Even wearing prescribed attire (‘please wear semi-formal wear’) when attending wedding ceremonies becomes challenging to follow.

Many Filipinos are consistently late for work , doctor appointments, or meetings without any valid excuse or explanation, if not traffic congestion. Many Filipinos also lack self-control or self-discipline in personal habits or behaviors, such as eating, exercising, or spending habits.

When we arrive abroad, we find it necessary to follow the rules, but we seem to take our country and its simple laws for granted.

Practice crab mentality

Once a fledgling sari-sari store business becomes the talk of the barrio, everyone is riding the bandwagon and doing the same business. Eventually, every single store in the neighborhood fails and shuts down its operation .

Many Filipinos refuse to acknowledge or appreciate other people’s talents or abilities and belittle or dismiss their contributions. Instead, they engage in “ tall poppy syndrome ,” where successful or accomplished individuals are targeted for criticism or ridicule to bring them down to the level of others.

If someone gets promoted at work, some Filipinos are good at making up stories; did he date the supervisor? Did she sleep with the manager? It also exists in the form of protectionism . Insecurity or lack of creativity drives this attitude.

Practice cronyism

A bright yet not well-connected job applicant never gets the job vacancy because it was reserved for a family member of an incumbent official or a reward for supporters of a candidate who just won the elections.

Eventually, he lands a job abroad, and a firm abroad benefits from his skills. A well-connected passenger gets the airport’s particular lane while hard-working OFWs sweat it out on a long line. The political supporter who lands the job is often a topic of conversation because of his or her skills, or lack thereof.

“Nakapasok ako as clerk sa City Hall kasi malakas ako kay Mayor,” a proud yet unqualified government worker might say.

Sadly, this habit encourages corruption in government service, a disease that society struggles to avoid.

Freeloaders

Some Filipinos have the nerve to crash into birthday parties uninvited or show up at a birthday party because a friend of an invited friend brought them along. Also, they tag along other family members to wedding banquets, even if organizers have carefully considered the tight headcount.

They enjoy free electricity supply through illegal connections or enjoy a bonanza of free water from busted pipes instead of reporting the apparent waste of scarce resources.

They don’t pay for the fares of jeepneys driven by friends, assuming that it’s implied that even the driver made no mention of free rides. “Thank you, pre,” the freeloader quips as he alights the vehicle. They sometimes disrespect the families of the recently deceased, coming to the wakes not to pay respects but to get free meals.

They often visit the house of a balikbayan or OFW who just arrived and demand—they don’t wait—presents. When a foreigner invites a Filipino out for lunch, this Pinoy might bring along his kids, parents, and whatnot.

“Balimbing”

Filipino politicians often change parties not because they found a better-principled group but to gain something—power, money, or fame. When momentum shifts, be prepared to jump ship and switch loyalty. Read their biographies and be not surprised they’ve been into various alliances with no actual accomplishments to show.

In Filipino culture, the fruit of the balimbing or starfruit tree has five sides or points, and it is often used metaphorically to describe individuals who are two-faced or opportunistic. In politics, a “climbing” politician changes their political affiliation frequently, often without any evident ideological or moral basis, and is perceived to be driven primarily by self-interest and personal gain. This term is often used pejoratively to criticize politicians seen as untrustworthy or lacking integrity.

Appointments are never meant to be on time, as many Filipinos make it a habit of not making it on time . Meetings, parties, church services, and so on. We guess teachers didn’t lack the motivation to make us punctual, as tardy ones were met with appropriate punishment. Shall we blame others for this? Traffic congestion, slow jeepney driver, hard-to-find location, I was robbed, and others in an endless list of alibis and excuses.

Overindulgence in ‘good time.’

A gathering of friends isn’t bad. But if it always meant 20 bottles of hard liquor to be consumed overnight, that’s something. Just get the job? Let’s celebrate and have a drink. I just got the paycheck. Let’s have a drink.

When someone starts reminding them to be frugal and slow down on alcohol spending, they reason out, “it’s my money; you have no business interfering,” “This is just once in a while” or “I need to drink to forget my problems.”. Yeah, right.

Treat OFWs as ATMs

Some Filipinos are so overly dependent on relatives working overseas that they don’t look for jobs or don’t attend classes because they are in an “abundant supply of financial aid.”. Worse, money remittance from OFWs is spent on luxuries and expenses like mobile phones, cars, and jewelry they can brag to friends instead of investments like farm lots or small businesses.

In many cases, nothing was allocated for savings or investment. When OFWs come home, families find it hard to explain where money was spent. That is why we sometimes think of reasons we shouldn’t remit money back to the Philippines .

Social climbers

Some Filipinos try to portray themselves as well-off, can-afford individuals who share photos of their latest branded bags (or wear employer’s dresses), shoes (even if they’re imitations), or drink coffee at some “social” coffee shop. There is no problem bragging if one can back it up.

Some Filipinos are good at constantly name-dropping or bragging about connections to influential or wealthy individuals to gain status or recognition. Some of them mimic the behavior or lifestyle of individuals in higher social classes, such as adopting specific speech patterns or mannerisms or frequenting upscale restaurants and clubs. Hey, don’t forget to post our macchiato at Starbucks on Instagram!

They go beyond one’s means to appear wealthier or more affluent than one is, such as purchasing expensive clothing, accessories, or cars and flaunting them on social media for everyone to notice and hopefully gain a few more likes in the process.

But the problem begins when such actions conceal reality. To cope with their “affluent” lifestyle and continue to join that exclusive circle of friends, these Filipinos may resort to extreme measures (embezzling money, prostituting themselves, or running to the nearest pawnshop). For OFWs who practice this habit, this could lead to more demanding families who think their relative abroad doesn’t have money problems or even become the target of robbers when they come home.

Some Filipinos have a lot of negative things to say about the Philippines. The government is corrupt. The airport stinks. Filipinos are always late. The Philippines remains laggy among its Southeast Asian neighbors. While these statements may be true, it doesn’t help if we only dwell on identifying the problems. We also must have solutions to offer to remedy the problem of tardiness , fixing the issues of our airports , or rampant corruption.

Some may ask, ‘Why just nitpick on bad attitudes and not offer solutions?’. You’re old enough to deal with these bad habits unless you failed your basic ‘ good manners and right conduct ‘ classes years ago.

Bato bato sa langit ang tatamaan, huwag magalit.

More Bad Attitudes: 7 Bad Traits of Many Filipinos

Of course, we possess more than 20 of these negative Filipino traits and bad attitudes. But if we aim to correct them, we think it’s good enough to list the 20 and try to change them instead of listing a hundred and failing to improve.

On the flip side, there are many things we can be proud of as Filipinos and positive traits we should adopt at all times . So it’s crucial that, as we try to fix our flaws, we are proud of the attributes that are unique to us Filipinos.

323 COMMENTS

I am a Filipino and I don't do these bad habits. So please edit your title and add "some or most" to Filipinos as not all are bad as you say they are.

Oops… Looks like someone just qualified under the "Onion-skinned" category.

right. as if what you’re doing is not at all bad. /shakes head. just you all are as negative as it gets. we’ve all been in one or two in this habits that we do. please stop thinking that ALL of us are the same, coz there are people who GROW UP and not stay like what you have up there. (or refuse to live that way) not saying i’m not one, puh-lease, we’ve at least been there, at least more than once in our lives. sheesh.

If you don’t feel offended then you should just keep mum. It’s always been observed that the first ones who react belong to the guilty party.

number 17. i am offended because that is for real . ofws work like slaves for their families to have a comfortable life . yet some of ththose families think it is an everlasting wealth. what if the ofw losses the job? what are they going to go home to? annabanana ,are you one of those people who is totally dependent on ofws, and not work because they are the bread winners?.

kaya kung minsan , kahit masakit , kailangan nating sabihin… kaya walang asenso ang kapwa nating pinoy , naka -asa lagi…

ksi money lng naman nasa utak nyo at nasa puso nyo eh… akala nyo money lng ang sagot sa lahat nang kailangan nang tao eh..

like yourself

totoo nman lhat yan…

so true ! …mag bago na tayo! LOL… atleast i tried naman..

hahahah nadali mo ‘tol! 😛

I agree with all of your opinions – except for Filipinos being lazy. In my humble opinion, the reason why a lot of people like Filipinos as their employees is because of our work ethic.

Nice article. Keep up the good work!

And yeah, we really do need to change the concept of "Filipino Time."

tama… pinoy ang pinka walang kwentang tao sa mundo. pera lng nsa utak… not limited to.

bka ikaw lng ang walang kwenta… mag isip ka nga nang mabuti… if walang pinoy..

these are true sana mabuksan ang utak natin at maintindihan ang mabuhay ng walang sagabal sa buhay isa pa ang filipino ay karamihan reliyoso but very unholy kong mag mura halos mamatay na ang minumura. Kailan kaya tayo maging karapatdapat sa ating bansa mahal ko ang Pilipinas pero naiinis ako sa ugali ng pinoy ito ang malaking sagabal sa ating pag unlad. In Jesus name baguhin mo po ang ugali namin. Amen

then start to teach and inspire people dito sa pinas.. this article will not change people instantly you need to guide them. Hinde ito mababasa nang isang common na pilipino itong article na to.. let this be an inspiration to all of you OFW's to help change the mindset of pinoys, money is not enough

sa totoo lang lahat yan kaya magbago na tayo kung pwede lang.

its a direct hit!!! aminin man ntin o hindi ay totoo.kung ikaw ay nasa parte ng middle class o sa mas mababa pang antas ng lipunan d mo na kailangang obserbahan para makita mo…kusa na itong bubulaga sa mata mo..

its a direct hit!!!!!! nakakahiya mang aminin pro totoo,,kung ikaw ay nasa middle class o mas mababa pang antas ng lipunan ay di mo na kailangang obserbahan pa ang mga ito pra makita mo,,kusa nang makikita ng mata mo..nakakalungkot na may mga magaganda tayong kaugalian pro prang wla pa sa 10% ng populasyon ang tlagang gumagawa n2 ung iba prang pakitang tao lng..

True…. sana merong 18.) Makasarili – iniisip nya lng ang kanyang sarili… if tutulong sya dapat merong recognition or utang na loob….

Help pinoy to change mindset.. ( solusyon hinde paglalait sa kapwa )

every nationality has their positive and negative traits…

well on the flipside …families back in the country thinks that money grows in a tree and dont have to work for it.. tama nga naman para tayong atm dito para sa kanila bali wala ang pagod natin basta may pera sila matanggap…

nasa mga ofw ang control!…kung turuab silang magsikap kesa umasa.

LOL Totoo nga! 😀

so..if think…u have a habbit…in those listed above so…think about it and if u can change it …its ur choice

hay naku! sana lang maraming mkbasa at matuhan d2.

wow! I don't think fiilpino is the only human who always did this, I know other, some other community in other countries are doing this too, it's not only FILIPINO, not all pinoy is just like that!

Latin people we are all the same =P

nku tama, nmn pinoy nga nmn..nmn nmn nmn wagaaaaaaasssssssssssss.

Absolutely 🙂

Whatever you say Sir but not in general. Huwag mong lahatin ang mga Pinoy. For 10 years in the middle east and 11 years in Northern America, other nationalities are far worse than ours, believe me cause I have experienced and seen it. But still I am proud to say that we filipinos are no.1 on the top 5 list as the happiest people on the planet.

hE HAD STATED FROM THE VERY BEGINNING THE WORD – NOT ALL –

I probably have missed it and I admit, my fault but do u have to use all caps to get your message thru?

onion skinned

louie see #6 lol

Yup, agree and a true trade mark of a filipino!

Change? Good Luck!!! If those 17 negative Filipino traits changed, then change the post that we see around the Globe to, YOU'RE LATE, NO MORE FUN IN THE PHILIPPINES. it's civil war over there….LMAO.

im typing something Sir Louie, I don't mean anything about my all caps . . . don't proved them that we're onion skinned.

@Jesusa, they have all the right to say what they want and deserved to be heard and respected. Right sis? But changing those traits, that is were the fun is..LOL.

I can't see anything funny . . . . read again my post as no. 18 Sir!

We cannot change those 17 negative traits overnight. Not even a single one can be changed that quick. Not all people has those 11 negative triats either. This is the trait that not only filipinos have and when we do, it is deeply embedded in ones system and being handed down to us for centuries. Revenge is a strong word, fighting back is almost the same but creative/educated reasoning is more acceptable. You mentioned on your post that this is as a wakeup call. Is this a matter of life and death that we have to deal with this matter stat, immediate action required, drastically? This already existed before you and I were born. I was not trying to be funny cause to me, let us be practical, people's habits either good or bad are the product of how an individual got raised up, how we are molded up, environment, education, religious belief, tradition, culture, influenced and home upbringing to name a few, plays a major role. Changing those triats is just like close to re-inventing the wheel to me. Try drilling down the subject on why filipinos do have this kind of traits in the first place, then go from there. Yes, it is everyone's decision in life as to whether to change or not, it's their choice. That is why God created the length our fingers differently, not all are the same, same as people's traits.

indeed sir, this is not a call for drastic, instant and quick change, nobody pushes anyone to do so,,,, but at least we can make a step at a time, and we can start from ourselves

… and please do not call me sir… I work for a living too… thanks.

It is ourselves who make our own life, if you choose to live with these bad habits your life will be like a worm crawling but if you live with positive things you will be like a bird soaring up… Life depends us how we make it.

ANG SAKIN LANG MARAMING PARIN GOOD THINGS ANG MGA PINOY.. About sa time na laging late mas mern parin ibang countries malubha pa sa ating mga pinoy. mas marami din mga ibang nationality ang mas tamad pa sa pinoy infact ang pinoy kapg napunta sa ibang bansa bkt madalas sinasabi ng taga ibang bansa filipinos are very hardworking… pero This article is also good also wake up the mind of the readers that this is the real happening in the culture of filipinos. We just need to improve those negative thought…

so true that Filipino's are known as "hardworking people" when they are abroad. We really need to… so many nationality competing for the position.. we need to show others that we are better!The sad part is.. most( not all) of the Filipinos in the country really do possess the qualities the writer mentioned.. If only we can Correct these negative attitudes then maybe.. we find progress in our country.

To the writer of this article do you do or are you not one of this? Just asking?

What I want to see is the removal of basically two traits 1) The mind set that one can get away from something having done, as exemplified by our propensity of breaking traffic rules when driving in the Philippines because we can bribe the traffic enforcers, while dutifully obeying the same rules when driving abroad and, 2) Palusot System. I think the weaning away of these two traits from Filipinos' mindset can go a long way to improve our society. Mind you, criminals will have second thought of committing crimes if they know that they can't get away with it! The second will immensely improve anything substandard in what we do(Hindi na pwede ang "pwede na yan").

Despite what some see as bad habits or attitudes, as an American, I can say you are among the best people on Earth.

# 3 , 11 , 12 & 17 are the real bad habits . Nepotism being the worst

these things are not new to us…they do happen in reality.BUT i do believe that every nationality/nation has its own flaws…but they are more silent abt it, (are they doing something to solve it? maybe)…it’s good to read it posted, but to whether this knowledge (of our bad habits/attitudes )would improve us, that’s one thing i’m not so sure of…sO, who would admit he’s guilty anyway?you?oh common….let’s just be s……… and DO our part to make our country a better society to live in…

I agree with all of the author's points. I just hope we'll take this positively and try to improve ourselves instead of being "onion-skinned" about it. 🙂

Agree, hopefully maintindihn ng lahat n mkakabasa na d mo nmn nilalahat , but yes I totally agree with u about most of it lol… We need to change!…..

May I add as No. 18… If someone tries to correct our behavior, instead of looking for the positives reasons, and trying to analyze ourselves, we tend to fight back and the first thought – revenge! IT IS A WAKE UP CALL FOR ALL OF US. IF YOU ARE NOT IN THE LIST, THEN, CONTAMINATE OTHERS! ALL RACES HAVE GOOD AND BAD POINTS – INDEED. BUT WE SHOULDN'T USE IT AS AN EXCUSE, INSTEAD, WALK AND START TO CHANGE YOUR WAYS… AT LEAST YOU STARTED TO CHANGE YOURSELF. GOD BLESS TO ALL!

kung pwede po sana ko magdagdag pang 19. Maraming Pilipino – hindi lahat – mas bukang bibig nila nang mga negative tungkol sa ating bansa at lahi, at ayaw manlang nila bigyang pansin o kaya namn bihira nila bigyang pansin ang mga magagandang bagay.(ex. sa mga tv news, 1 segment lang ang good news, bad news na lahat) kulang nalang maging negosyo na ang pangpupula sa Pinas. masisisi ba natin ang ibang lahi na mababa tingin nila satin. eh yan lagi ikinakalat nyo eh. sa salitang English nyo pa talaga sinasabi yan.kung ang intensyon nyo ay itama ang mga mali ng Pinoy, bakit ineng English nyo pa? ang totoo gusto nyo talaga ipahiya ang mga Pinoy! Kayo ang dapat mag bago mga UTAK KANLURAN! at bakit nga ba hanggang ngayon nakakabit parin sa Pinas ang salitang "3rd world country"? Hindi nyo ba alam, na naka base ang mga assessment ng ibang bansa sa kung ano ang tingin natin sa sarili natin. kung tayo mismo hindi naniniwala na maganda ang maging Pinoy, paano pa kaya sila? yun lang po. MABUHAY ANG LAHING PINOY!

Malik Uddin SANG-AYON AKO SA IYO GINOONG MALIK, AKO'Y SUMAGOT NG INGLES DANGAN KASI'Y SA GAYUNG WIKA DIN ANG NAILATHALA. HINDI NAMAN BASEHAN ANG PAGGAMIT NG TAGALOG O IBANG LENGWAHE, GUMAGAMIT TAYO NG IBANG SALITA UPANG MAGKAROON NG UNAWAAN ANG BAWAT ISA. KUNG ILOKANO KAUSAP, DAPAT ILOKANO ANG SAGOT. KUNG INGLES, E DI INGLES, DAHIL TAGALOG KA, NAGTAGALOG DIN AKO. NASA PUSO KO ANG PAGIGING PILIPINO, HINDI SA PAKITANG TAO. WALANG MASAMA NA MALAMAN NG IBA ANG ATING KAMALIAN, DAHIL MAS MALAMANG ANG ATING MAGAGANDANG KATANGIAN. KAHIT SAAN MAKARATING AY MAS MALAMANG ANG PAPURING AKING NARIRINIG… IYON AY DEPENDE SA INDIBIDWAL. SANA BAGO GUMAWA NG ISANG BAGAY, LALO NA ANG MGA NASA IBANG BANSA, AY ISIPIN NILA NA HINDI LAMANG SILA ANG MAAPEKTUHAN KUNDI ANG BUONG BANSA. NAGKUMENTO NA KAU AGAD NG NEGATIBO SA AKIN, DAHIL SA PAGSASALITA NG INGLES AT PAGSUSULAT SA MALALAKING TITIK… GANYAN BA PATUTUNAYAN ANG PAGMAMAHAL SA BAYAN…. UNG MAGPUNA SA KAPWA KESA MAGBIGAY PA NG IBANG BAGAY NA MAKAKATULONG SA IKAAUNLAD NG BAYAN…..

take it as a challenge and not a criticism …. it will do a lot…

Come on mga kababayan this are all the facts, admit it! He's just saying what our bad habits are which is so true and of course we have some good ones too… just don't get upset with the reality. Peace! 🙂

Them traits are mere subjective generalization of Filipino acts and the only good thing I can perceive is the realization that these traits are real,.so that if you're "enjoying" some if not all of them,.then this publication becomes an awareness that will guide you to think twice as to the sustainability these traits will persevere in the pursuit of your future, taking of course into consideration your "conscience", if and whenever your mind is still dictated by such…

#17 tama. Nakakainis sa ofw.

Racist. Tama. Agree.

aral sa lahat ito na dapat baguhin sa buhay ng pinoy… hwag na lng i-share pa kasi malaking epekto ito sa lahi natin. dapat atin atin na lang ito kasi kawawa namn mga kababayan natin na matitino. Dpat sa Ingles na lng sana sinulat din ito. halimbawa, kung merong nakabasa nito at isa pang employer or investor sa atin imbes na kukunin tayo baka hindi na at kumuha na lng ng ibang lahi… kawawa namn mga kabataan natin na nagsisimula pa lang sa mga karera nila baka hindi matupad at lumipad… sana mag-ingat din sa ating pamamahayag hindi porke libre e sulat na lng tayo ng sulat… kaya ang kalayaan isang malaking tukso na dapat pag-ingatan.

dont mention pilipino! all over the world it happen.every person they have their bad habbit… but can you teach it one by one to be a good person?

you write this for what?… your opposite with Rizal…he wrote with love.. you write to destroy our dignity sir!.

aral sa lahat ito na dapat baguhin sa buhay ng pinoy… hwag na lng i-share pa kasi malaking epekto ito sa lahi natin. dapat atin atin na lang ito kasi kawawa namn mga kababayan natin na matitino. Dpat sa Ingles na lng sana sinulat din ito. halimbawa, kung merong nakabasa nito at isa pang employer or investor sa atin imbes na kukunin tayo baka hindi na at kumuha na lng ng ibang lahi… kawawa namn mga kabataan natin na nagsisimula pa lang sa mga karera nila baka hindi matupad at lumipad… sana mga ingat din sa ating pamamahayag hindi porke libre e sulat na lng tayo ng sulat… kaya ang kalayaan isang malaking tukso na dapat pag-ingatan.

gusto kasi nila ipagkalat na ganun din sila kasi filpino din daw sya eh, gusto nila maintindihan ng mag banyaga ang mga di kapuri puri ng pinoy so kasama din sya dun. bakit haya hindi na lang sya pumasok bilang fropessor at ituro nya ang mga yan eh nakatulong pa sya di ba?

Basta ako, ang alam ko lang I'M BLESS AND PROUD TO BE PINOY!

iba pa rin ang pinoy… we proud to be pinoy thats it …

True… but what good is this? tell us something we don't know.. Why not write " 17 thing or tips for Filipinos to be successful"? That way it would be received as constructive criticism rather than negative.. I guess the author wants to challenge us to better ourselves as Filipinos.. That's good intention.. hopefully it will have a positive effect and not the other way around. Anyway its a good article.. And if all of you want to feel better about being a Filipino just click the hyper link which reads "many things we can be proud of as Filipinos." Good day. 🙂

LOL. this is true. majority sa filipinos inani. pero sa isa ra jud ko guilty, kning ma late.. USAHAY.

Salamat sa iyong pag sulat sa mga bagay na dapat natin baguhin bilang Pilipino,

The only solution is to be objective! Change if you are and remain if you don't. I LOVE BEING A PINOY NO MATTER WHAT!

can you write 100 ways of good attitude as a pinoy? maybe you dont know!

many of pilipinos life sacrifice. open hand, loving. caring. strong faith lots of positive… why you write negative…why dont you write positive and negative side?

mga ganitong issue tagalugin na lng. dpat ipatranslate na lang ito kay tito sen since buwan ng wika namn ngayon…. hihihi…

Hay nako, you guys have so many complains and very defensive everything naman is true walang hindi tama dyan, lahat totoo! Like I said, he is just saying, he's not complaining. Oh my… you know who's guilty in this case, really hard to face the truth! Be cool! 😀

well i have nothing to say but AGREE its definitely "TRUE"& ds is a godd "Eye Opener" for every Filipinos around d globe

lahat ng nationality may ganyang attitude, Filipino lang ba dapat ang mag bago? dapat lahat ng lahi na ganito ang attitude magbago. wag nyong idikit lang ito sa aming mga Pilipino. Lahat may baho din.karamihan nga dyan namana lang natin sa kanila eh.

Ay nako lahat tayo may mga bad sides as Pinoys but basically…Pinoys are better off compared to other races..but lets not talk other people…comparing ourselves to other races.would lead us to to be vained and bitter..as desiderata puts it'' dont compare your self with others because wether you like it or not there are always greater and lesser person than you are..Pinoys like the rest citizens of the world are working hard to be excellent and competitive in many fields.In fact,so many have already been recognized in their chosen fields in positive ways…really am proud to be a Filipino…Mabuhay ang Pinoy and lets set aside our negative thoughts and crab mentality..Woo to fellow Filipinos who damn their own race for..you are not worth dying for.

I agree, I think we got all these from the influence of different cultures who invaded us centuries ago. Anyway, we are also ready to change for the better, it takes proper education and our Christian faith. I found out that some nationalities have even worst attitude and culture than us.

wow! I don’t think fiilpino is the only human who always did this, I know other, some other community in other countries are doing this too, it’s not only FILIPINO, not all pinoy is just like that!

Change? Good Luck!!! If those 17 negative Filipino traits changed, then change the post that we see around the Globe to, YOU’RE LATE, NO MORE FUN IN THE PHILIPPINES. it’s civil war over there….LMAO.

im typing something Sir Louie, I don’t mean anything about my all caps . . . don’t proved them that we’re onion skinned.

I can’t see anything funny . . . . read again my post as no. 18 Sir!

We cannot change those 17 negative traits overnight. Not even a single one can be changed that quick. Not all people has those 11 negative triats either. This is the trait that not only filipinos have and when we do, it is deeply embedded in ones system and being handed down to us for centuries. Revenge is a strong word, fighting back is almost the same but creative/educated reasoning is more acceptable. You mentioned on your post that this is as a wakeup call. Is this a matter of life and death that we have to deal with this matter stat, immediate action required, drastically? This already existed before you and I were born. I was not trying to be funny cause to me, let us be practical, people’s habits either good or bad are the product of how an individual got raised up, how we are molded up, environment, education, religious belief, tradition, culture, influenced and home upbringing to name a few, plays a major role. Changing those triats is just like close to re-inventing the wheel to me. Try drilling down the subject on why filipinos do have this kind of traits in the first place, then go from there. Yes, it is everyone’s decision in life as to whether to change or not, it’s their choice. That is why God created the length our fingers differently, not all are the same, same as people’s traits.

so true that Filipino’s are known as “hardworking people” when they are abroad. We really need to… so many nationality competing for the position.. we need to show others that we are better!The sad part is.. most( not all) of the Filipinos in the country really do possess the qualities the writer mentioned.. If only we can Correct these negative attitudes then maybe.. we find progress in our country.

What I want to see is the removal of basically two traits 1) The mind set that one can get away from something having done, as exemplified by our propensity of breaking traffic rules when driving in the Philippines because we can bribe the traffic enforcers, while dutifully obeying the same rules when driving abroad and, 2) Palusot System. I think the weaning away of these two traits from Filipinos’ mindset can go a long way to improve our society. Mind you, criminals will have second thought of committing crimes if they know that they can’t get away with it! The second will immensely improve anything substandard in what we do(Hindi na pwede ang “pwede na yan”).

I agree with all of the author’s points. I just hope we’ll take this positively and try to improve ourselves instead of being “onion-skinned” about it. 🙂

May I add as No. 18… If someone tries to correct our behavior, instead of looking for the positives reasons, and trying to analyze ourselves, we tend to fight back and the first thought – revenge! IT IS A WAKE UP CALL FOR ALL OF US. IF YOU ARE NOT IN THE LIST, THEN, CONTAMINATE OTHERS! ALL RACES HAVE GOOD AND BAD POINTS – INDEED. BUT WE SHOULDN’T USE IT AS AN EXCUSE, INSTEAD, WALK AND START TO CHANGE YOUR WAYS… AT LEAST YOU STARTED TO CHANGE YOURSELF. GOD BLESS TO ALL!

kung pwede po sana ko magdagdag pang 19. Maraming Pilipino – hindi lahat – mas bukang bibig nila nang mga negative tungkol sa ating bansa at lahi, at ayaw manlang nila bigyang pansin o kaya namn bihira nila bigyang pansin ang mga magagandang bagay.(ex. sa mga tv news, 1 segment lang ang good news, bad news na lahat) kulang nalang maging negosyo na ang pangpupula sa Pinas. masisisi ba natin ang ibang lahi na mababa tingin nila satin. eh yan lagi ikinakalat nyo eh. sa salitang English nyo pa talaga sinasabi yan.kung ang intensyon nyo ay itama ang mga mali ng Pinoy, bakit ineng English nyo pa? ang totoo gusto nyo talaga ipahiya ang mga Pinoy! Kayo ang dapat mag bago mga UTAK KANLURAN! at bakit nga ba hanggang ngayon nakakabit parin sa Pinas ang salitang “3rd world country”? Hindi nyo ba alam, na naka base ang mga assessment ng ibang bansa sa kung ano ang tingin natin sa sarili natin. kung tayo mismo hindi naniniwala na maganda ang maging Pinoy, paano pa kaya sila? yun lang po. MABUHAY ANG LAHING PINOY!

Malik Uddin SANG-AYON AKO SA IYO GINOONG MALIK, AKO’Y SUMAGOT NG INGLES DANGAN KASI’Y SA GAYUNG WIKA DIN ANG NAILATHALA. HINDI NAMAN BASEHAN ANG PAGGAMIT NG TAGALOG O IBANG LENGWAHE, GUMAGAMIT TAYO NG IBANG SALITA UPANG MAGKAROON NG UNAWAAN ANG BAWAT ISA. KUNG ILOKANO KAUSAP, DAPAT ILOKANO ANG SAGOT. KUNG INGLES, E DI INGLES, DAHIL TAGALOG KA, NAGTAGALOG DIN AKO. NASA PUSO KO ANG PAGIGING PILIPINO, HINDI SA PAKITANG TAO. WALANG MASAMA NA MALAMAN NG IBA ANG ATING KAMALIAN, DAHIL MAS MALAMANG ANG ATING MAGAGANDANG KATANGIAN. KAHIT SAAN MAKARATING AY MAS MALAMANG ANG PAPURING AKING NARIRINIG… IYON AY DEPENDE SA INDIBIDWAL. SANA BAGO GUMAWA NG ISANG BAGAY, LALO NA ANG MGA NASA IBANG BANSA, AY ISIPIN NILA NA HINDI LAMANG SILA ANG MAAPEKTUHAN KUNDI ANG BUONG BANSA. NAGKUMENTO NA KAU AGAD NG NEGATIBO SA AKIN, DAHIL SA PAGSASALITA NG INGLES AT PAGSUSULAT SA MALALAKING TITIK… GANYAN BA PATUTUNAYAN ANG PAGMAMAHAL SA BAYAN…. UNG MAGPUNA SA KAPWA KESA MAGBIGAY PA NG IBANG BAGAY NA MAKAKATULONG SA IKAAUNLAD NG BAYAN…..

Jesusa Estanislao ang sinasabi ko lang nman po eh dapat bigyan din ng pansin ang mga magagandang bagay tungkol sa pinoy, at ang sinasabihan ko po na magtagalog e yung nagsukat ng article of bad comments sa mga pinoy… kung may napapansin kayong negatibo sa mga kalaho nyo, dapat satin satin nalng,kagaya ng sabi mo ang buong bansa ang naapektuhan. mag ingat din sana tayo sa mga sinusulat natin lalo na kung naiintindihan ng ibang lahi.

Come on mga kababayan this are all the facts, admit it! He’s just saying what our bad habits are which is so true and of course we have some good ones too… just don’t get upset with the reality. Peace! 🙂

i agree with you ! its oki to know those bad traits lets just correct it and be more proud to ba a changed pinoy..yahoo!

Them traits are mere subjective generalization of Filipino acts and the only good thing I can perceive is the realization that these traits are real,.so that if you’re “enjoying” some if not all of them,.then this publication becomes an awareness that will guide you to think twice as to the sustainability these traits will persevere in the pursuit of your future, taking of course into consideration your “conscience”, if and whenever your mind is still dictated by such…

agree talaga ako don sa mga nabanggit na mga neg qualities nating mga pinoy kasi isa ako don sa ilan eh..onion skin. sa ating mga pinoy di talaga pwede ung magtatalo ng walang sasama ang loob,at take note,sa sobrang sama ng loob napupunta ito sa pananakit…ang mga hudyo,nagsisigawan nat lahat sa mukha pa mismo..pero after 5 mins oki na sila parang walang nangyari. mahirap po talaga minsan satin tumanggap ng kamalian lalo nat alam mong pinagbutihan mo ang isang bagay tas pag pinuna na mali parang insulto satin…kinaklaro ko lang po hinde naman lahat,pero majority po talaga aminin niyo ma o hinde…

Basta ako, ang alam ko lang I’M BLESS AND PROUD TO BE PINOY!

hay ,ang pinoy talaga basta napagsabihan sumasama ang loob..oki lng po un at agree ako don sa mga nabanggit na neg traits natin…lalo na ung onion skin…kasi isa po ako don eh,pero unti unti ko na pong binabago kc di talaga maganda.actually hanga po ako sa ugali ng mga hudyo direkta sila magsalita eh,bahala ka kung masaktan ka,pero after 5mins peace na sila,basta silasasabihin nila ang gusto nila sabihin at oki lang din sa kanila kungg sasabihin mo sa kanila kung anu ayaw mo sa kanila,kahit sa fud pag tinanong ka kung gusto mo ba ung food or watever na bingay nila sabihin mo kung gusto mo o hinde…dont try to be polite just to make you look nice! be frank but be good at heart.

True… but what good is this? tell us something we don’t know.. Why not write ” 17 thing or tips for Filipinos to be successful”? That way it would be received as constructive criticism rather than negative.. I guess the author wants to challenge us to better ourselves as Filipinos.. That’s good intention.. hopefully it will have a positive effect and not the other way around. Anyway its a good article.. And if all of you want to feel better about being a Filipino just click the hyper link which reads “many things we can be proud of as Filipinos.” Good day. 🙂

Hay nako, you guys have so many complains and very defensive everything naman is true walang hindi tama dyan, lahat totoo! Like I said, he is just saying, he’s not complaining. Oh my… you know who’s guilty in this case, really hard to face the truth! Be cool! 😀

well i have nothing to say but AGREE its definitely “TRUE”& ds is a godd “Eye Opener” for every Filipinos around d globe

Hahah, you hit the nail on the head !!!

They forgot being banned from Fear Factor..Or mixing up ‘F” and “p”

I love pish!

Unfortunately some overseas Pinoys are totally Ass Kissers

Hay, ang OA naman mag react nung iba. Sinabi naman nung writer na HINDI LAHAT ng Pinoy. Be realistic naman. I think the writer wanted us to know what really happens in reality & didn’t intend to burst our bubble or to break our very fragile egos. The problem with us, we always take things very personally! Onion skinned nga oh…hehe. We are always in denial. Totoo naman yung mga sinabi nya at kung aayusin lang natin pagiisip natin, it serves as an EYE OPENER. Huwag na nating pagtakpan yung negatives sa atin. The more we cover it, the more na nagmumukha tayong ipokrito. Pakatotoo lang.

here we are….now…karneng ginesa sa saririling mantika….no one is perfect ikanga!!!!!!!!enjoy nalang natin ang life kung anu mayron tayo…kilangan paba post yan?

kaya di tayo umaasenso.

I put it on my table aware of it this number 13 list “preebies hunters” yes it is true I accept in reality on illegal connections because I have an experience we live in shanty and many part in squatter area but the bases why they should do that? our leader insufficiently lock of attention. our economic growth down line conflicting personal interest first before generating the source become short distribution towards development of the society. but I still believe and hope the list will change to be efficient and top.

We always emphasize the negative rather than the positive. Just listen to our daily news. In life there will always be good things and bad things. Let us point to the good things for others to emulate and be motivated; rather than wail upon the bad things and shame us to action.

what ever its ITS MORE FUN IN THE PHILIPPINES

We’ll said, as you mentioned not

Pakiusap lang sa kapwa Filipino gamiting na lang natin ang ating sariling wika sa ating mga magagandang komento sa sosyal medya na ito para sa ating kapakanan…bilang isang filipino lalo na nagkalat na tayo sa buong mundo.

Daming umaruy. Hirap talagang tanggapin ang katotohanan. Paano nga magbabago ang ating mahal na Bansang Pilipinas.

You are right at some point, please make a blog also about good traits of Filipino. Opinyon, we are far more better than any other nationalities.

dapat yata ang title ng article ay “17 Bad Habits and Attitudes of PEOPLE That Need to Change” kung di lang dun sa mga concern ng mga OFWs.

This is fairly true i have to agree to disagree..filipino rin kc ako i have been there done that!..

I take it positively! Yes! a lot of Filipinos have a habits like these! but not all!

dude this writer deserve a credit. if we only mention our goods then we forget what we need to change. he just reminding us let’s put it in positive way. in my experience FILIPINOS ARE NUMBER ONE. LOL

Not that I’m agreeing with everything that you’ve said, we cannot avoid those kinds of attitudes. Kasi nga, hindi naman sila magiging ganito kung nasusunod ang gusto nila. But you cannot please everyone, I guess..

Valdez, ZJ contributor, http://www.ourhappyschool.com

and — whenever there are articles like this, instead of being taken as a guide: netizens quarrel with each other in the comments section 🙂

kapal naman ng sumulat ne to ,, mas grabe pa nga sa iba bansa. kaakinis minamallit ang philipines , grrrrr.

Ang masasabi ko lng PO ay ” ang disiplina ay nagsisimula sa tahanan ” bow!

The truth is always hard to hear, but everyone who does not like to hear the truth, have the opportunity to turn a negative into a positive, and it costs no money. Greetings from Denmark.

I agree with Louie you can say what you want but please don’t use capslock. everyone has their own darkside, i do believe there are some who are far worse than ours but let’s not use that as an alibi let’s push our morals and find God in the centre of all of this.

good or not, all or not.. at the end of the day.. i’d still be going HOME to my country PILIPINAS!

8. mainit. seriously, i do think that temperature and weather contributes to ‘katamaran’. heat saps out strength.

Its good to know all of these. Though i don’t have all of these bad habits and attitudes (Yes, I am guilty with few here), but I want to be changed. And how I wish i could change others too. I am an OFW and I really don’t know how to respond to my FB friends sending me a personal message like “send the christmas presents through LBC, ok?”, etc…. (#17, #13). until now i don’t reply them. I don’t know how to explain to them that i can’t send for now because i have problems. But i don’t think its good to let them know because it’s personal. I also don’t know how to formulate a humorous reply. (sigh) I also want to say this. #4 and additionals- social climbers. A lot of my friends post pictures of almost all the things they have especially if its new or the latest like its too bragging. or check-in in FB posts to places that maybe “sosyal/high society, etc”. really, does everyone need to know what you have or where have you been? so silly!even sharing personal or to intimate facts…. hahahahaha…

Personality one had acquired not – Nationality.

i’ll add this too No. 20

Maling pag.gamit ng “PINOY PRIDE” … kayo nlng bahala mag.lista ng maling paggamit ng pride, minsan nakakasawa na pakinggan o panuorin … kumbaga overused na ung term … minsan di natin nakikita sa mga mata ng ibang lahi, negative na pala … and that gives them more negative feedback on our race …

tapos later mag.proprovoke sila idaan sa message, then we do fight back, tsismis, siraan yung tao, cyber bullying, etc. kesa naman aalis at wag ng makisawsaw o lumevel sa kanila …

speaking of siraan ung tao, another example with this yung nangyari kay Korina Sanchez, kung talagang masamng tao si Korina sa likod ng camera (as gossip says) ng dahil lang sa isang pagkakamali na magbigay kritiko kay Mr. Cooper, tama bang i.bulgar sa social media ang lahat ng baho / personal information ni Korina ?

after reading this article i realized that i’m not a Filipino. lol

Tama naman lahat ng sinabi nya 🙂 Naalala ko un subject kong retorika,. I dont think the writer’s objective is negative to think these are negative values. Its just an EYE OPENER for everyone. Bawal ang pikon 🙂 Good job for the article!

Lol. Live in another country for a couple years and you’ll see that all nationalities and cultures suffer from the same things – maybe they even have it worse because they are in denial. I don’t think Filipinos should take all the credit.

All the bad habits mentioned are so true. May I add also that most Filipinos they don’t realized who and what they are. They tend to undermind disadavantage people that instead of helping them they put you down; If they have nice house they think they are rich and wonderful. Are they really?

From what you have written as you said A lot of that actually happens in other countries, I can well see you are very agitated to the time and appointment schedules, it has really effected you, this is because as an OFW you have learned the true aspect of timeliness, something that does not exist in the Philippines. People here just have no real schedule, it is ok here to be 20 minutes to an hour late for work, its ok to take a 2 hour lunch, when working abroad actions like this will cause you to lose your job no matter what the excuse is.

The real problem is Filipinos think working abroad is easier, better, their intelligence on this is that more money is made easier abroad. I hear this a lot here in the Philippines, you cant have anything successful here, a business will not support a family here. is this true NO and another misconception is you do not need 5 million pesos of capitol to open a 12 foot by 12 foot sari sari. It is called a budget Filipinos, a business budget, and this budget does not include trips to the local cock arena, or 12 day drinking benges paying for all your friends to eat and drink, or trips to the big city to spend money on anything and everything you see. You do not need 12 people to do the work of 1 person, while that 1 person is YOU. The more you do the less you have to pay for employees who are looking to steal from you, take advantage of you, and get everything they can out of you before you finally fail. The theory a lot of abroad businesses use is if you want something fdone right and complete DO IT YOURSELF. you do not need a maid a nanny, a grass cutter to do your yard and household work. And the less you try and make it well known about what you have and how business like youare the more business like you will appear in the public. Don’t start a business because you want people to se what you have and what you do, doing this will attract only the wrong kind of attention, if you concentrate on the business, and not how you look to the public, the fame you desire will come with the authentic success of that business.

My wife and I opened a business with 175 dollars and sold it 2 years later for 35,000 dollars. It did NOT take millions in capitol to do this, it took 3 years of hard work, sometimes 32 hours straight with no sleep, it took doing exactly what we promised to our customers and sometimes more. It took long hours of budgeting our time between business and home life, It took every ounce of energy we had, It did not take money, it took work ethics and persistence.

The Philippines is a great country full of opportunity that the Filipinos can not see, if most of them spent 10% of the time trying to make a successful life here in the Philippines as they do on getting out of their “crappy home town” they would see quite quickly they have the ability to NOT be the third world country they are.

Well most of what the author wrote about us Filipinoes are just hand-me-down culture from those foreign nations that colonized the Philippines before. We just have a knack of keeping it and not trying to go against these foibles.

Something good the Bayanihan. Today, the Filipinos’ tradition of helping each other with all that they can is impressively exemplified not just within the nation but also throughout the world, as people from all walks of life continue to contribute to the efforts to aid and rebuild this nation. http://communities.washingtontimes.com/neighborhood/moving-needle/2013/nov/24/after-typhoon-haiyan-how-philippines-coping/#ixzz2lflu7gZ2&f

Ma a shame nman kayo sa sarili nyo…..lahat ng sinasabi nyo….tungkol sa bad habit ng filipino, lahat ng bansa may ganyan….at lahat yan ay para sa mga filipino n nag comment…..din….. wag nyo pong ilahat ng filipino….I hope you’ll realize that no one is perfect in these world….God Bless sa mga taong hindi nag iisip n filipino rin sila…..

Truth hurts!! But I like your article. I find it constructive criticism. Its a wake up call to change these bad habits. Pero sa totoo lang all of these are already part of our culture kaya mahirap din na mag bago tayo.

It is forever somebody else’s fault never accepting when they themselves are at fault…. This is what I meant gy finger pointing behavior my wifi conked out thanks!

How about the FINGER POINTING behavior?

It’s all true.

These traits are present in all society and not only to Philippine society. This editorial is racist. the writer is a hater of own race and want to paint a bad picture of who and what Filipinos really are. These traits are product of colonization and christianization is not inherent to Filipinos. These are catholic traits not Filipino traits

yes! I agree.

This is a good review… I’ll give it an 8 out of 10.

This is all true and it even lacks a lot more. I have read all the comments down here and I see that some agree and some got upset. I guess everyone knows that the truth always hurts and this is maybe the reason why some got a bit upset.What this article says is merely trying to open everyone’s eyes. I have seen lots of OFW’s coming home and a bunch of family, relatives, neighbors would come pick them up at the airport. It just makes me wonder why. I also have seen foreign friends invite just one person over lunch for a business meeting and the whole family comes along not even thinking if the foreigner is ready with cash for the food they ordered. I find this quite inconsiderate.I mean, if you are the foreigner and this happens to you, would you be happy about that? There are OFW’s doing things that is against their will just to earn more money because their relatives here instead of investing the money would waste them all, shopping endlessly, partying, buying drugs, and so on and so forth. It is really sad to think about all these things. I do hope this article helps each and everyone to start making changes in their lives. There is no harm in trying after all.

I agree with all the points mentioned here; especially #3 (racism)… However, the race we most hate is our own race.

I agree . I should start at myself.

Because we’re human being………

#1, As long as you don’t do Karaoke every month. Once, twice or thrice a year is okay, it is called COURTESY. You only celebrate your birthday once a year. Not because you don’t sing in Karaoke, it means that none of your neighbors can sing in Karaoke, I’m sorry, it doesn’t work that way. That’s our culture, we Filipinos love singing even if we don’t have nice voices.

P.S. Singing should not be done during weekdays. ^_^

i’ve lived in Philippines for just about one year, and i have to say, speaking as a foreigner, number 1 is absolutely the worst! but also numbers 7 and 9 are pretty bad too.

Quite a lot of the mentioned attitudes are not just typical filipino attitudes …… They are also “posessed” by many other nationalities 😉

Due to limited resources, excessive population, and strong family values, Filipinos suffer greatly from the lack of reward. When they put forth great effort, little reward awaits them. Eventually, they tend to believe that there is no reward, and nothing to shoot for asides from getting out of dodge. My goal is to build a more rewarding community. If a child picks up all the trash on the street for me, I’ll give him a small amount of money, but more so, I will spend a lot of time with him, trying to build his faith into things. Telling him to find something he desires to learn, and become what he wants to be. Help him to realize the joy and satisfaction of imagination, even if we are poor. I will pray often with the girl that I love, and i will give work to those who need it, while teaching them about imagination and inspiration. Filipinos do not lack knowledge, but they do lack imagination SEVERELY. They find it impossible to make dreams come true unless someone does it for them. As I am actually the opposite in this regards, I will let this part of my spirit influence the country heavily while i am here. Filipinos have the power of embracing, and embracing children especially. Unity should be a goal, as it truly is imaginable, and possible for this country, unlike so many others. The Philippines is the most likely country to teach the world how to face the problem of population, and domestic problems effectively, if they just allow themselves to find more contentment in the lack of reward, by rewarding THEMSELVES WITH A GREATER IMAGINATION.

naku oh may butthurt =) kesa sa maging butthurt ka jan mas mabute pang linisiin muna ang sarili bago mangdamay ng ibang lahi. isa pa yan, eto idadagdag ko, 20. MASYADONG BUTTHURT!

To all who got asshurt on this article, thank you for proving its point. Now have a dose of this: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=3595291096412&set=o.120616704748454&type=3&src=https%3A%2F%2Ffbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net%2Fhphotos-ak-frc3%2F996057_3595291096412_1526515712_n.jpg&size=502%2C569

I like number 17. Nothing can be truer.

May kulang pa dito, “too much pride” or sometiemes sa daming problema ng ating bansa the media is trying ti divert our attention. News nakng abiut filipinos na sumikat abroad and they use the words “pinoy pride” sometimes naka inis isipin yung ibang pinoy proud to say that but in realiti dami naman hindi maayos sa bansa natin daming mahirap, is that a pride???

true ” some ” Filipinos are like these but it also holds true that these also applies to ” some ” people of all nationalities based on my experience at work.

Agree!! Hoping for a change.

the truth hurts…

If someone would write about our good habits, would it reach 17?!

Can you count how many times #6 is portrayed in the comments area?

very true…some of this I have…I hope I can change it….

To whom do we have to blame for all of this Filipino bad habits and attitudes? to Spain who influences us long time ago?

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10201057115130611&set=a.1514371819815.70685.1250020849&type=3&theater

Meh..Generic pap. These traits could apply to anybody regardless of nationality or race. I would agree on Number 17 though. Sobrang nakakalungkot isipin na karamihan sa mga OFW wala ipon paguwi kasi di napagplanuhan mga gastusin habang nagtratrabaho pa.

This isn’t gonna do anything but piss off almost every filipino, I’ve been living here for 12 years and one thing I’ve learned is never tell a filipino what you don’t like about them, they won’t take it, no matter how you meant it, they will end up hating you for it

You forgot to add the bad habit of closing PUBLIC streets for wakes, particularly if the person who died is a relative of an elected official like barangay captain, councilor, etc. Try walking during heavy rains on a flooded street because the tricycle driver can’t go any further as the road was blocked for a wake.

the biggest problem as i see it is that Filipinos do not know that many things should not be the way they are, just like many foreigners that never exited their country have no idea that things could be better. Thus difficulty in accepting criticism .

Yes… i agree… thats why most of Filipino People are POOR!… because of a poor ideas, about this topics on how they change their life? if they didn’t change on what they’re doing… just like more Filipino’s looking for a good lifestyle in the future, but in the present time they didn’t look for a good opportunity’s or even to add more activities / ideas… that can help them to manage their Family’s, Work, or in a Business… but the bad of all is they’re only make more Babies/Kids but they can’t gives/afford the needs

Wow..tinamaan ako by some of the bad habits..! Yes, I agree on these..nice..!

THE TRUTH HURTS BUT IT’S THE TRUTH….

Definitely TRUE and let’s accept the fact that there is something wrong with US!

ABSOLUTELY TRUE! AND LAST BUT NOT THE LEAST,WE FILIPINOS LACK NATIONALISM TO START WITH. ALL THEY CARE IS THEMSELVES NOT FOR THE WHOLE COUNTRY. IT’S REALLY ABOUT TIME TO WAKE UP AND MAKE A CHANGE ESPECIALLY THE SQUATTER PEOPLE.

When it came to New… Its always the bad that win… We Filipino has more GOOD traits than bad.. we should also talk about it… This topic is like one of those bad traits that filipino as per this blog… CRAB mentality. thi

I can see your point there but instead of emphasizing our bad traits you should have made an article on how to change them. We should think positively, we have more good traits than bad that should be point out for us to motivate and be proud.

Andrea Khate Calaguan Contributor, http://www.OurHappySchool.com

Converted d negatives to positives….No hurt feelings….accept d truth N set U free !!!

What is written here is true, we cannot change 100% but at least we should try, what I notice also is that the new comers has no dignity and self respect, men and women we choose to leave our love ones to give them a better life and chance

Not to ruin our family or ruin other family because you are lonely…

Among the 17, which one did you have before, and already improved? Peace

Talaga masakit man tanggapin pero ito ang katotohanan, at ang alam ko na dapat i aplika ay DISIPLINA!!!

BUT without pilipino the world will collapse hehehe!

Hey hey hey wait a minute here. Why don’t you state why do we have to change? Real FIlipinos don’t see them as negative. Be fair naman. Just because you’ve seen how other countries behave, it doesn’t mean they are right and we all have to follow them.

I see it as rules. You don’t just change the rules which we have lived our whole lives. If you want to play with their rules then why don’t you play in thier turf? (I guess you really can’t wait to.)

Why didn’t you add #18… Complaining complaining complaining??? Is it because you don’t want to get hit by the stone you just threw?

State your objective. Why do we have to change? Do we want to be like Americans or Europeans? Is it really necessary?

Filipinos are already happy being Filipinos. You can see it even in the middle of a tragedy but yet somehow somebody just want Filipinos to change the way they look at life. If you really want to change Filipinos for the better, challenging their ego is not the way to do it. Filipinos are stubborn, but Filipinos live by the rules, their own rules.

its individuals have different traits and attitudes,, the worse is some of filipinos they making it as regular habit,, which is possible to change it,, but what ever its is,, there is a positive and negative side of it,, only we can do is how to handle it,,, its in the person who have it,, well for me,, i really love who I am,,, filipinos are the best among the rest,, hospitality portion filipinos are the best,,,

Seriously, I find it very amusing almost all of these traits are not confined to just Filipino Culture rather they are very bad habit none the less. If you sulked with what the writer had done, you were not thinking – here’s how you react (suggestive): pause, breath, examine, confine, then find answers why.. If you see it is one of your traits, just admit, move forward, then if you could change, good. See, it doesn’t hurt when you think logically

I love this article because is saying the truth about our bad flaws we need to improve

These are generally true and familiar observation. This is the result of being colonized and oppressed by Spain. When we got our freedom, we got it without assuming responsibility. The worst social cancer plaguing the country is corruption and “blind” political patronage.

Fanaticism goes way beyond religion. Look at how we idolize our celebs. What’s worse is now we have reality shows like Pinoy Big Brother so instead of working hard, many of us rely on this shows to pull us out of poverty and make us famous.

mabait mga pinoy,kung sa mabait,yun nga lang minsan umiiral katigasan ng ulo at pinpilit ang bagay na mali,at minsan o kadalasan ay nasisira sa pera,gagastusin ang pera kahit di sa kanya at ang isang pagkakamali ng isang kaanak o kaibigan na alam nating mali dapat payuhan at di dapat ayunan,sarili kong opinyon at walang personalan

Pretty well said, so pease do not take this in wrong way because its true !

eeh kung gusto mong ayusin yun ugali ng pinoy bakit kailangan mong isulat sa salitang banyaga dahil ba sa mas sosyal pakinggan pwede mo rin naman iparating sa sarili nating wika

All true! Read the other comments and I already saw a number 6! Thanks for this article.

kung mensan yong mga inasal natin na pulit-ulit na ginagawa ,walang pumupuna sa halip ay ginagaya, this will become an accepted form behavior and automatically part of our cultures. this is what happened,one of our friends is married to an italian, his first visit in the philippines was to attend a mother in law’s funeral while he was still in the airport he wasalready disgusted one was pretending to help them carry the baggage instead asking for a pay. he protested because he did not ask for help but his wife calmed him down and gave the money. when they reached home marami nang mga kapit bahay akala niya naglalamay pero nagantay lang pala ng pasalubong sa gabi naman maraming naglalamay yon pala naglalaro ng baraha nagsusugal may lebre snack pa, may nagiinuman. . for nine days…at his return to italy i asked him how is the phillipines, he responded it was very terriblle. the philippines is good but the people’s behaviors no. marami siyang tanong na nais niyang sagutin ko. one of his questions is,bakit kailangan siyam na araw bago ilibing ang patay pagod at gastos lang dahil may pakain at pamerinda ang sagot ko kahit hindi makatwiran pero kabahagi kasi ito ng kulturang pinoy……. pag alam nilang nagaabroad ka kahit hindi kamaganak nanghihingi ang pasalubong. ang sagot ko.. isa sa nasanayang ugali ng pinoy. even if he has a lot of negative comments against pinoy’s bad habits, i think he is telling the truth. kahit saang sulok sa mundo basta may pinoy is always a pinoy…

kung mensan yong mga inasal natin na pulit-ulit na ginagawa ,walang pumupuna sa halip ay ginagaya, this will become an accepted form behavior and automatically become part of our cultures. this is what happened….,one of our friends is married to an italian, his first visit in the philippines was to attend a mother in law’s funeral while he was still in the airport he wasalready disgusted one was pretending to help them carry the baggage instead asking for a pay. he protested because he did not ask for help but his wife calmed him down and gave the money. when they reached home marami nang mga kapit bahay akala niya naglalamay pero nagantay lang pala ng pasalubong sa gabi naman maraming naglalamay yon pala naglalaro ng baraha nagsusugal may lebre snack pa, may nagiinuman. . for nine days…at his return to italy i asked him how is the phillipines, he responded it was very terriblle. the philippines is good but the people’s behaviors no. marami siyang tanong na nais niyang sagutin ko. one of his questions is…,bakit kailangan siyam na araw bago ilibing ang patay pagod at gastos lang dahil may pakain at pamerinda ang sagot ko kahit hindi makatwiran pero kabahagi kasi ito ng kulturang pinoy……. pag alam nilang nagaabroad ka kahit hindi kamaganak nanghihingi ang pasalubong. ang sagot ko.. isa sa nasanayang ugali ng pinoy. even if he has a lot of negative comments against pinoy’s bad habits, i think he is telling the truth. kahit saang sulok sa mundo basta may pinoy is always a pinoy…

And do you think anything you have written will be taken on board? Do you think anything will ever change? Only when all the graft and corruption is stamped out, and people stop trying to get something for nothing or hoping on false promises from politicians, will the Philippines start to change. Please also tell me why is it that when you give a Filipino a good job they start well and then over time performance drops. They are late and become generally lazy, and they start thinking that as an employer you somehow now owe them a living for doing nothing.

some of these habits helped us coped with the hardships we’re faced everyday.. we’re not suicidal like other nationalities

It’s a wake up call for every Filipinos.

Part of #2 and 15 are the same.

What about false pride? Whenever foreign celebrities with Pinoy blood becomes known in the industry, we Filipinos immediately claim them as our own. We say, “Pinoy si _______” though in reality, they don’t know anything about the country, nor the culture, except, maybe, adobo & balut. Or when a (full-blooded) Filipino does become famous (e.g. in youtube), you see comments like, “Proud to be Pinoy,” plus a number of word wars against other nationalities on the side.

I was thinking of putting the pen to paper and creating a list of 17 bad habits and attitudes that Americans need to change but I don’t think 17 would knock the dust off of the topic so I will give the Filipinos a pat on the back for holding it to a mere 17, I moved to the Philippines from the US in 2013 retiring from a highly stressful career and I have noticed that with having so much self discipline comes a high level of stress to keep ones’ self on the straight and narrow, here stress is almost non-exist ant and in my honest opinion the lack of it is refreshing.

No mam we call This true reminder to all pinoy its about time to change our children inherite it…..

absolutely u are right mr. writer….well said

The 17 Bad Attitudes of Filipinos are all true..

not all their being exag……….

LEAVE A REPLY Cancel reply

Log in to leave a comment

Latest Updates

Pinoy royal caribbean cruise staff allegedly installed hidden cameras in bathrooms, suspected of spying on guests, filipino nurse in melbourne suspended for stealing medical supplies and importing a skin-whitening medication, understanding pinoy films and why many of them are unwatchable, 12 money remittance tips for new ofws, comprehensive ielts guide for overseas filipino workers, more articles like this, 7 filipino questions you’re too shy to ask, sss online made easy: a comprehensive guide to online contributions, benefits, and security, sss philippines: your complete guide to social security system, newsletter signup.

• Philippine Profile
• Balikbayan Boxes
• Filipino Seafarers
• Illegal Recruitment
• Pag-IBIG / HDMF
• Outstanding Filipinos
• New Zealand

© 2009 - 2022. Pinoy OFW | All rights reserved.

12 Negative Filipino Traits and Values

Hospitable, creative, cheerful, cooperative, hardworking… These words have been used to describe Filipinos, not only in the Philippines, but around the world. However, although Pinoys have plenty of positive traits and values, we cannot deny the fact that there are negative traits that must be addressed, if we truly want to improve as a people.

In this article, we will take a look at negative traits of Filipinos. Please note that these characteristics do not necessarily apply to all Pinoys; certainly, there are many exceptions. That being said, we must admit that these traits have been used to describe Filipinos in general, whether we like it or not!

Table of Contents

List of Negative Pinoy Traits and Values

Are you guilty of the following traits? Let us take a closer look at the negative traits that we need to change, as Filipinos:

1. Filipino Time

You’ve been invited to a party, set for 3:00 pm. But almost everybody knows that the celebration doesn’t really start until 4:00 pm, or even 5:00 pm! In fact, most people usually announce an earlier time when making invitations, just to make sure that everybody arrives by the “real” time, which is at least one hour later. Whew!

However, the Filipinos’ penchant for tardiness is not endearing at all, and it should definitely not be applied to the workplace. You may have heard of foreigners complaining about their Pinoy colleagues’ tendency to be late. We shouldn’t even be proud of calling this habit “Filipino time!” Let’s start turning things around, be punctual always, and make Filipino time… on time!

2. “Mañana” Habit

“Mañana” is the Spanish word for “tomorrow.” The mañana habit refers to Filipinos’ tendency to procrastinate; in other words, they like to put off “for tomorrow” an important task that they should actually be doing today. Hence, they usually end up “cramming” or rushing when the deadline draws near.

Coincidentally, the word “mañana” also sounds like a shortened version of “mamaya na,” which is is Tagalog for “(I’ll do it) later.” Now, we don’t really want to be famous for being lazy or for being slackers, right? We need to get rid of the mañana habit!

3. “Ningas Cogon”

Cogon is a type of grass that burns quickly; hence, “ningas cogon” literally means “burning cogon grass.” As a figure of speech, however, this phrase is used to describe Filipinos’ habit of starting out with enthusiasm… only to end up not finishing a task, or otherwise doing it halfheartedly. What’s the lesson here? In order to achieve excellence, we must strive to finish what we started… and to do it well!

4. “Bahala Na” Attitude

When faced with a challenging or difficult task, many Filipinos say “Bahala na,” which roughly means “Come what may” in English. In effect, the speaker is leaving the result to fate, instead of taking responsibility or finding a solution.

Uttering “Bahala na” may be considered by some as being religious or spiritual ( i.e. leaving it all up to God). Indeed, there may be situations that are best left to Divine Providence, especially since Filipinos are known to be religious. However, when it comes to matters that we actually have control over, it’s always better to be proactive!

5. “Balat Sibuyas”

The phrase “balat sibuyas” literally means “onion skin” in Tagalog. Figuratively, the phrase is used to describe someone who is overly sensitive or easily hurt; a.k.a. onion-skinned.

Generally speaking, many Filipinos are onion-skinned, in the sense that they are easily affected by even the slightest criticism. We are so afraid of failure or rejection, that we tend to take criticism personally, to the point of becoming emotional. If we truly want to grow, we need to toughen up, “shed” our onion skins and see what we can do to improve ourselves!

6. “Mare, Ano’ng Latest?”

Nowadays, the term “Marites,” which is short for “Mare, ano’ng latest?” (Sister, what’s the latest news?) has replaced to word “chismosa” (gossiper). Indeed, a quick stroll around most Filipino communities would lead you to several groups, usually gathered by a sari-sari store, exchanging the latest gossip and rumors about almost everything, about neighbors, politicians, celebrities, etc.

As juicy as the latest rumor about a neighbor may sound, it certainly does not help improve the condition — of the neighbor or the gossipers — at all. Worse, it could even lead to damaged reputations and destroyed relationships. So, let’s try to avoid being called “Marites,” unless of course, your name really is Marites!

7. “Fiesta” Mindset

Basically every city, town, and barangay in the Philippines has a fiesta or festival of some sort. It usually involves festive decorations, fun activities, street parades, and lots of delicious Filipino food . Of course, let’s not forget about Christmas, birthdays, weddings, christenings, and many other occasions.

Now the tendency of most Filipinos, when hosting a party, is to go “all out.” They have a “fiesta” mindset — to provide as much food and drinks, to as many people — as possible. And while there’s certainly nothing wrong with celebrating, there’s such a thing as spending “within our means.” We don’t really need to invite everybody or prepare so much food… only to end up broke, or worse… in debt!

8. “Hello, Mars (Pautang)”

Speaking of debt, there’s a popular joke that when a “friend” texts or chats you with “Hello, Mars” (Hello, Sister), be very afraid because the next word could be “Pautang” (I need to borrow money). Haha. Funny, but true. Sigh.

Because of Filipinos’ habit of overspending (“the fiesta” mindset, remember?), the consequence is that many end up getting broke, or worse… in huge debt. If we want to have a healthy financial situation — and good relationships with our family and friends — let us take a look at our spending habits, avoid borrowing, and see if we need to cut back on our expenses instead.

9. Disregard for Rules

Arriving late. Cutting in line. Beating the red light. Jaywalking. Throwing rubbish on the street. Karaoke all night long. Going out even if there’s a curfew.

These are just some of the ways in which Filipinos exhibit a disregard for rules. Let us keep in mind that these rules have been put in place for good reasons… such as peace, order, safety, and cleanliness. If we want to have a more disciplined and organized way of life, we should start by following simple rules.

10. “Balikbayan Box” Mentality

The balikbayan box is a common item among Pinoys, especially among families who are supported by overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). However, there is such as thing as balikbayan box “mentality.” This means that while we are excited to receive money and things from our family member who is abroad, we tend to disregard or even abuse their efforts.

Being an OFW is not easy; they have sacrificed so much, just to be able to support their families back home. Let’s not abuse their generosity by being overdependent or insensitive to their plight. A simple thank you or even a gift to him/her will certainly do wonders. Don’t let them carry all the burden!

11. Colonial Mentality

Speaking of mentality, this is another type of attitude that we should definitely get rid of. Colonial mentality refers to a preference for foreign things, rather than our own. For instance, we usually gush over brands such as Louis Vuitton, Starbucks, Gucci, and the like… when there are plenty of local brands that are of high quality as well.

It’s time to “go local” and support Filipino products and services. This could be as simple as buying eggs from your neighbor’s sari-sari store, or wearing a Pinoy brand of shoes. When we choose to buy our fellow kabayan’s products, we end up contributing to the Philippine economy in the long run.

12. Crab Mentality

Of all the negative habits on this list, we believe that this could be the most harmful or detrimental to Filipino culture. Imagine a bucket full of crabs, all struggling and trying to climb up — only to pull each other down and not really going anywhere. This image represents “crab mentality,” or the tendency to pull other people down.

Why do we put other people down, anyway? Because of jealousy… envy? Instead of pulling them down, let us try to be happy and build them up. Instead of being jealous, let us consider another person’s success as motivation for us to do better. Besides, we all have different gifts and talents; there’s no need for crab mentality!

Some Final Thoughts

Every culture has its positive and negative traits. For us Filipinos, tardiness, mañana habit, gossiping, and “bahala na” attitude are some of the traits that we can certainly do without. Furthermore, having a “fiesta” mindset, disregard for rules, colonial mentality, and crab mentality doesn’t help us one bit, either!

It’s time for all of us to be introspective and see how we can turn things around. Among the above traits, which ones have become a habit for you? Having identified these habits, what can you do to change for the better? By pondering these questions, we can begin by improving ourselves… and the time will come when we shall see greater progress in our communities, and in the entire country.

READ NEXT: 9 Survival Tips Every First-time OFW Must Know

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Filipino | Philippine History and Culture

Unveiling the shadows: addressing negative filipino traits.

The Philippines, a vibrant archipelago nestled in Southeast Asia, is renowned for its captivating landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm, hospitable people. However, beneath this veneer of charm lies a spectrum of deeply ingrained societal traits that often hinder progress and perpetuate negative perceptions. While acknowledging these negative Filipino traits may seem daunting, it is a crucial step towards fostering a more enlightened and progressive nation.

1. Ningas Kugon: The Allure of Procrastination

Ningas kugon, a Filipino term aptly translating to "burst of enthusiasm," aptly captures the tendency to embark on endeavors with fervent zeal only to abandon them as motivation wanes. This proclivity for procrastination often manifests in delayed deadlines, missed opportunities, and a general sense of disarray.

2. Crab Mentality: Pulling Others Down

Crab mentality, a metaphor rooted in the behavior of crabs preventing their peers from escaping a bucket, poignantly illustrates the Filipino tendency to stifle individual progress and success. This ingrained trait manifests in discouraging others' ambitions, belittling achievements, and celebrating misfortunes.

3. Bahala Na: The Passive Acceptance of Fate

Bahala na, a phrase embodying a passive acceptance of fate, reflects the Filipino tendency to relinquish control and surrender to circumstances. This fatalistic attitude often leads to inaction, a lack of accountability, and a resignation to unfavorable outcomes.

4. Filipino Time: A Reluctance for Punctuality

Filipino time, a euphemism for habitual tardiness and a relaxed approach to schedules has become a source of frustration and missed opportunities. This disregard for punctuality undermines professionalism, erodes trust, and perpetuates a culture of inefficiency.

5. Hiya: The Fear of Losing Face

Hiya, a deep-seated fear of causing shame or embarrassment, often leads to self-censorship, an aversion to confrontation, and a reluctance to challenge authority. This cultural norm can hinder progress by stifling open communication, preventing constructive criticism, and suppressing individual expression.

Navigating the Path to Change

While addressing these negative traits may seem like an uphill battle, it is essential to recognize that change is not only possible but also imperative for the Philippines' continued development. Fostering a culture of accountability, promoting punctuality, encouraging open communication, and challenging the status quo are crucial steps towards dismantling these deeply ingrained patterns.

The Philippines' journey towards overcoming these challenges requires a collective effort from individuals, institutions, and the government. Educational initiatives can instill values of punctuality, accountability, and self-expression from an early age. Cultural campaigns can challenge the crab mentality and promote a spirit of support and camaraderie. And government policies can emphasize meritocracy, innovation, and a commitment to excellence.

Embracing a Brighter Future

By confronting and addressing these negative traits, the Philippines can pave the way for a brighter future. A nation unhindered by crab mentality, empowered by active participation, and guided by a sense of responsibility will undoubtedly flourish, achieving its full potential on the global stage.

• Culture and History

Related Posts

Spanish in the Philippines: A Legacy Language Navigating the Crossroads of History and Revival

The Enduring Legacy of Chavacano: A Linguistic Gem in the Philippines

How Did the Australian Military Lose to Emus in the Emu Wars?

• Subscribe Now

‘Utang na loob?’ Filipino family values gone wrong, and how they affect mental health

Already have Rappler+? Sign in to listen to groundbreaking journalism.

This is AI generated summarization, which may have errors. For context, always refer to the full article.

Nico Villarete/Rappler

MANILA, Philippines – When it comes to family, we all have our own plights. For many, however, these “struggles” go way beyond an annoyingly noisy sibling or an overbearing but caring parent. Sadly, their family has become the main cause of their poor mental and emotional health.

Different factors and circumstances may come into play, but it’s very common for traditional Filipino family values to contribute to the toxicity one may be experiencing from their own relatives. For those already struggling with family, the fact that Filipino culture is very family-oriented and community-centric may not always help. Why is this so? Clinical psychologist Abegail Joyce (AJ) Requilman from Empath explains how these age-old values – which are already so embedded in society – can actually become detrimental to our own mental health when practiced too rigidly and too much.

‘Ako mas matanda’

Filipino family culture revolves around filial piety, wherein elders are honored for their wisdom and experience. This is admirable, but when elders should always have the final say, this can make the younger generation feel unheard, unseen, and unappreciated. We were told as kids that highest respects must be paid to anyone older than you, and for some, this is understood by “showing our love by being strictly obedient, well-mannered, and by keeping the family’s name untarnished by not straying away from the given status quo,” AJ said.

When we inevitably reach that age where we start finding ourselves, speaking up, and expressing our own opinions, our elders may take this as disobedience, ingratitude, and disrespect. Because courteousness and taking care of the elderly are also very important concepts in a Filipino household, disagreement can be misconstrued as hostility.

‘Family comes first’

Our “family first” mentality is noble, but when taken to heart too much, this can put a lot of pressure on children, especially on the panganays (first born). “I’m studying/working hard for my family,” many children may say. There is nothing wrong with this, but AJ said that there are times when one has to put his/her own dreams on hold, in order to fulfill obligations to the family.

“Some children who end up being the breadwinner for parents and siblings may set aside finding a partner and getting married as he/she needs to provide for their family,” AJ said. You are expected to be so giving, to the point that you end up losing parts of yourself just to meet others’ needs, until you are running on empty. This is a sure recipe for burnout, emotional fatigue, and maybe even resentment in the future.

‘Bakit siya, mas…?’

Filipino parents have the tendency to compare siblings and/or cousins to one another. “Someone is always smarter, more attractive, more talented, makes more money, than the other. Parents say this to their children to inspire them to improve and live up to their potential. However, this is usually more psychologically damaging than effective in motivating children to do well in school and in life,” AJ said.

Those at the short end of the stick usually end up feeling inadequate and unworthy. This may lead to people-pleasing or attention-seeking behaviors, or withdrawing from challenging situations to avoid defeat. This can also lead to poor self-esteem, low self-worth, or unhealthy coping mechanisms to compensate for the feeling of “I’ll never be good enough.”

‘Wala yan’

It doesn’t help that Filipino families also have difficulty tackling issues. Conflicts and problems are usually swept under the rug, only to maybe resurface at the next family dinner or minor disagreement.

When the conflict is between one of the parents and the child, regardless of who is at fault, an apology usually has to come from the younger one. Most of the time, everyone pretends that nothing happened, too. “Being honest about negative feelings and experiences inside a Filipino household is a challenge and usually, the one who dares open the conversation about it is seen as a destroyer of peace. In the end, conflicts re-occur and little fights grow deeper roots and may even transform to full blown rifts among family members,” AJ said.

Elders also get some kind of immunity to wrongdoings and toxicity. “No matter what they do, they’ll always be seen as the one who is in the right, which can be unfair. It becomes a bigger problem when there is physical and/or emotional abuse going on in the family,” AJ said. Some families prefer to stay silent about the abuse happening at home, believing that the family name must be “protected” because family is “forever.” How come bullying at school or work is condemned, but if from home, it is not?

This is also why some people have trouble asking for help from others. Sometimes, when a child has a mental health concern, relatives may find shame in having a family member seek professional help as others might think “something is wrong in their family home or genes.” “People find it difficult to reveal their gender preferences and identities, as they fear bringing shame to their families. Family comes first, even when this mindset becomes the detriment of their own mental health,” AJ said.

‘Utang na loob’ is real

In Filipino society, parents take care of their children and children, later on, are expected to take care of their parents. This is a beautiful culture when done out of love and free will, AJ said, but this could be damaging when children are viewed as “investments.” “When children are forced or manipulated to set aside their personal goals and aspirations so they could ‘give back’ to their parents by giving a huge chunk of their monthly paycheck, time, and energy, it becomes problematic,” AJ said, especially if parents use the “I raised you” card regularly, or hang what they’ve “done for you” over your head, like keeping a scorecard.

The feeling of being indebted to a parent – whose obligation was to provide for you anyway – can make for a transactional relationship in the future. The cycle of obligation – “I did this for you, so you have to do this for me” – makes you feel like you have to live for others, and this can breed feelings of resentment and disdain.

Filipino family culture is definitely something to be proud of, but too much of any good thing can be bad. If you can relate to most (if not all) of these “Filipino family values gone wrong,” it may be time to do something about it, for the sake of your mental health and even your family’s.

How to set boundaries or cut ties with toxic family, according to a psychologist

You can either choose to seek professional help, set boundaries, or cut ties – whichever you feel is the healthiest thing to do for yourself at the moment. – Rappler.com

Add a comment

Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines .

There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation.

How does this make you feel?

Related Topics

Steph Arnaldo

Recommended stories, {{ item.sitename }}, {{ item.title }}.

Checking your Rappler+ subscription...

Upgrade to Rappler+ for exclusive content and unlimited access.

Why is it important to subscribe? Learn more

You are subscribed to Rappler+

MISSION: To foster FILIPINO NATIONALISM. "Shake the foundations." Seek knowledge/understand/think critically about roots of socioeconomic-political predicaments in our homeland; educate ourselves, expose lies/hidden truths and fight IGNORANCE of our true history. Learn from: our nationalist heroes/intellectuals/Asian neighbors/other nations;therefrom to plan/decide/act for the "common good" of the native [Malay/indio] Filipino majority. THIS BLOG IS NOT FOR PROFIT.

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

The ambivalence of filipino traits and values.

The below link will show a short list of my past posts (out of 540 posts so far) which I consider as basic topics about us native (indio)/ Malay Filipinos. This link/listing, which may later expand, will always be presented at the bottom of each future post.  Just point-and-click at each listed item to open and read. 

PLEASE POINT & CLICK THIS LINK:    http://www.thefilipinomind. com/2013/08/primary- postsreadings-for-my-fellow. html

• THE FILIPINO MIND blog contains 532 published postings you can view, as of December 12, 2012. 
• The postings are oftentimes long and a few readers have claimed being "burnt out."  My apologies. T he selected topics are not for entertainment but to stimulate deep, serious thoughts per my MISSION Statement and hopefully to rock our boat of  ignorance, apathy, complacency and hopefully lead to active citizenship.
• All comments are welcomed for posting at the bottom window. Comments sent by email will also be posted verbatim. However,  ANONYMOUS COMMENTS WILL BE IGNORED.
• Visit my other website, click -->  SCRIBD/TheFilipinoMind ,  or the SCRIB FEED at the sidebar, or type it on GOOGLE Search to read or download ebooks and PDFs of essays I have uploaded.   Statistics for my associated website: SCRIBD/theFilipinoMind :  ALL   FREE AND DOWNLOADABLE: 123 documents, 207,458  reads
• Some postings and other relevant events are now featured in  Google+ ,  BMD_Facebook ,  BMD_Twitter  and  BMD_Google Buzz  and Google+.
• Translate to your own language. Go to the sidebar and Click on GOOGLE TRANSLATOR (56 languages - copy and paste sentences, paragraphs and whole articles, Google translates a whole posting in seconds, including to Filipino!!).
• Forwarding the posts to relatives and friends, ESPECIALLY in the homeland, is greatly appreciated. Use emails, Twitter, Google+, Facebook, etc.   THANK YOU !!!
• Songs on Filipino nationalism: please reflect on the lyrics (messages) as well as the beautiful renditions. Other  Filipino Music links at blog sidebar.    Click each to play.:
• BAYAN KO by Freddie Aguilar  
• ”Bayan Ko” by KUH LEDESMA  
• ”Bayan Ko” by a Korean choi r  
• ”Sa Kuko ng Agila” by Freddie Aguilar  
• ”Huwad na Kalayaan” by Freddie Aguila r

12 comments :

Hi! We are currently doing a study on blogging and would like to invite you to fill out a survey that we have prepared regarding this topic. This will only take 5-10 minutes of your time. 

Dear Sir: As Cassius says (in Shakespeare's play, Julius Cesar), "The fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars [i.e., character] but in that we are underlings." All the so-called Filipino faults or "negative traits" mentioned by academic sociologists and supposed historians are human traits. Hiya, ningas cogon, utang na loob (gratitude), mañana habit (procrastination), family orientation, etc., are to be found among all peoples in all climes and periods. Name one trait that you cannot find among other peoples. The fact that the term "mañana" habit is Spanish in origin speaks volumes. The Spaniards spend the longest siestas, while Filipinos take on one or two jobs at eight hours each stint. Name me a people who do not mostly put "family first" as a priority. To say that these traits (negative or positive) are peculiar to Filipinos is to propagate a lie, one that is harmful because it inflicts on our people a feeling of imferiority, the same feeling that has been implanted in our psyche by our conquerors from the Spanish to the Americans for centuries so that we would supinely accept their superior dominance. It is parochial to state that we Filipinos are unique in having faults. Our tragedy is being "underlings" of Spaniards then and now the Americans, and their local colonial elite, and the education they perpetuate to implant in Filipinos an inferiority complex so that they will eschew critical thinking, thinking for themselves and independence of thought and action. It is not true to say that the Filipinos who have martyrs, inellectuals and heroes like Jose Rizal, Mabini, the del Pilars, Claro M. Recto, and others, are a flawed race. Filipinos, the farmer, the laborer, the small businessman and the government employee, are all hard-working, and if freed from their colonial education, would be able to stand up like other peoples in other fortunate countries. MANUEL F. ALMARIO.

re filipino traits we should discourage our children from watching those tv shows shown at channel 2 and 7. puro kababuyan, kabaklaan, kababawan at kahalayan. the two tv networks - abs-cbn and gma-7 should be boycotted. - philip lustre

Manuel, Thanks for your response. Firstly, I think and believe that no honest, seriously thinking Filipino will disagree with you that all these traits that we exhibit are human traits; they will not say that these traits are uniquely Filipinos. What is seemingly unique is the degree we Filipinos exhibit with respect to these traits/values. It's all a matter of degree as in many issues in life: whether we talk of corruption, poverty, etc. as they are present in all of humanity or societies/countries. in most instances, traits can have good or bad effects to the person or to whoever that person interacts with. be it another person or group of persons or country. The good or bad effects of a particular trait/value depends on the situation. For example: "pakikisama" as friendship is good in itself; but the same "pakikisama" in corruption or used as excuse for not exposing such if committed by friend or relative is not good. The more "wholly" educated a person, (not just instructed or attended school/university to qualify for a profession for livelihood)-with some so-called liberal education; the more this individual can appreciate his traits/values and probably be able to change them IF he wants or needs to. Secondly, what is stated as acquiring an inferiority complex due to exposing our traits is only true if the hearer is ignorant and does not have the capacity to think critically. Ignorance and/or illiteracy brings sensitivity "balat sibuyas" outlook and thus becoming defensive at the slightest statement that he perceives as insulting. When I first read about and understood our Filipino values back in the 1960s, thanks to the published articles by Fr. Bulatao and Fr. Gorospe, I did not feel offended or inferior. The knowledge and understanding gave me an appreciation of "how we Filipinos tick," what we are as Filipinos and was therefore able to interact better with our fellow countrymen and foreigners (sometimes when I want to). Thirdly, obviously you appreciate the conditioning we obtained from the colonizers we had. Unfortunately, our so-called native leaders when the colonizers left continued an elitist attitude/behavior and apparently used their power to perpetuate these traits, some probably knowingly and others unknowingly. As some of them carry these traits/values with bad consequences/effects to our majority. We can not continue to blame these colonizers since they are gone and have effectively propagated and perpetuated the conditioning through our educational system that is not nationalistic; plus the ever-dominant foreign media and our unquestioning copycat attitude. We can not blame them but we can talk, expose and study our past for a better knowledge and understanding of our history or why we have the so-called damaged culture, etc, ad nauseam. I do not want to go into the details here. But if you are interested, please visit my blog which touched on these issues that reflect the absence/lack of Filipino nationalism on several postings. Bert

Dear Bert: I was enlightened when you told me that you learned about "Filipino values" (which I insist are universal ideals and traits, positive as well as negative) from two priests, Fr. Gorospe and Fr. Bulatao. As the intellectual and sectarian descendants of the Spanish friars, it is only expected that they should invent lies and excuses to put down the Filipino, for certainly they could not go against the authorities of the Catholic Church which had ruled our country for three and a half centuries. To claim that bad traits are of a higher degree among Filipinos than other peoples is to insult us. Did they conduct a global survey? If these priests were and are representatives of God in our country, the Philippines today would be blessed with prosperity and peace, and not be a land of poverty and hunger, for 350 years should be enough to change the character or "traits" of our people. If the Filipino character is flawed, who should be blamed, if not their creator and rulers. Instead of reading these friar acolytes and descendants, read Jose Rizal, their victim, especially his essay, "The [alleged] Indolence of the Filipinos." Surely in social and intellectual matters, we should place Rizal high above these ecclesiastics who are experts in obfuscation, sophistry and pretended wisdom. Yours truly, M. F. ALMARIO

Manuel, I do not agree with your generalization, in which you seem to imply, that everything that come from members of the Church are just lies, etc. I realize it is your right to make such claims. But anyway, if you visit my blog, you will note where I stand on these issues and find we have some convergence and also divergence of thought. I respect Rizal and so do our other heroes like Bonifacio, Mabini, Sakay, Recto, Constantino (I consider him one) and many others. I have touched on these heroes in my blog. On Rizal, he was prescient about our nationhood (as a few others of his time). We can learn from him and from these other priests whom you dismiss outright. Note that Rizal learned too from his Jesuit priests. Sure he was bright though I think and believe Recto was brighter in terms of Filipino nationalism. But that is not my point here. Thank you again for your comments. Bert 8:25 AM

Philip, I agree with your comments on some common, disgusting shows and topics in our Philippine media, all of which contribute to our cultural deterioration, to diversion of the attention of the impoverished majority from seriously questioning national decision/actions that adversely impact them and to cause the demise of social consciousness. But lest we forget, the owners/managers/producers/editors, etc of media and their advertising sponsors, especially in the all-powerful TV, find that these stuffs sell and perpetuate the illiteracy and ignorance of the masses, which they want to maintain power, economic and political. Given that we are great copycats, the media and their puppets get their cues/materials from so-called modern,advanced nations,i.e. mainly the USA in our case (which is supersaturated with similarly trashy TV programs since the American mind has shown deterioration. There is a claim that there are more illiterates in South Carolina than the whole of Japan). As the cliche goes, roughly stated here: "we deserve what we get." Sadly, our ignorant masses are kept,conditioned and perpetually shaped to like trash. Bert

Nag post ako ng 'comment' sa lumang post 'nyo, muli paumanhin at mahina tayo sa 'englisan'. Hiling ko lamang na wag kayong magsasawa sa inyong magandang naumpisahan...sa paghahatid ng mahahalagang impormasyon sa larangan ng kaisipang makaPilipino na magiging daan tungo sa totoong pagbabago at pagsulong, totoong kapos at iilan lamang ang may kaisipan at pananaw na kagaya ng sa inyo sa ating mga kababayan. KUng kaya't napakahalaga na maisapubliko o makarating sa nakararami ang mga panulat at impormasyon na inyong inilalahad sa 'Blogsite' na ito,subalit nakakalungkot at iilan lang naman sa mga Pilipino ang may 'access' sa 'computer' at ang may 'access' naman halos iilan lang din ang totoong nagkakainteres sa ganitong usapin. Ganunpaman malaking bagay na rin na may iilang Pinoy ang nag-titiyaga na maiparating sa anumang paraan ang paglilinaw kaugnay sa mga bagay-bagay may kinalaman sa mga ugat na kalagayan ng bansa.

Awtomatik, Maraming salamat sa iyong pagtangkilik dito sa THE FILIPINO MIND blogsite. Sinisikap kong huwag magsawa at tamarin sa pagsulat tubgkol sa ating bayan. Kahit anumang siryosong usapan tungkol sa bayan, pagiisipin natin ay mauuwi, unnanguna sa pagkawalan ng nasyonalismo ang pinakadahilan (may iba pang factors o mga dahilan pero bottomline ito). Dahil nga sa hirap,kakaunti pa rin ang may access sa computer; at kung meron man, hindi marahil ginagamit sa pagaaral at pagintindi gaya ng tinukoy mo. maraming distraction para sa mga kabataan sa computer: mga laro, entertainment, at iba pa. Ako naman ay hirap magsulat sa sariling wika. In fact, nagsimula ako ng IsipPilipino blog pero hindi ako nagtagal dahil napakabagal ko; at sabi ng isang kaibigan dating maestra ng Pilipino, para daw Engllish and pagsulat at pagiisip ko sa mga sinulat ko. Gusto ko ngang buhayin iyon ulit. Maybe when I have more time. Ganyan tayong Pilipino, mediocre sa sariling wika at sa dayuhang wika. Ang kailangan ay excellence first on our own native language. Maraming salamat!! Bert

Sir, Naisipan kong maghanap about Filipino Values sa internet dahil assignment ko ito. Our professor asked us to write an essay about pakikisama (social acceptance). Maaaring ipadala ko ito sa iyo pagkatapos kong magbasa at mag-isip-isip ng mga nalikom ko sa internet na masasabing sarili kong katha. Maraming salamat sa mga impormasyon! lagygem

Hi, Why don't you try coming to the UAE and see more of the negative traits that are rampantly practiced by lots of Filipinos. Pinoys alone are acting as bugaws to their fellow Filipinas, and the Filipinas are totally and blatantly ----- I can't find the right words. I have always been proud of being a Filipina until I got here. Lots of people view the Filipinas the same way because out of 1000 maybe 1 is different. It is awful. I get invited to a lot of parties but I often refuse to bring Filipina friends because they end up asking people for jobs or side-whoring or what knows what. I have yet to see some Filipinas who maintain their integrity and nobility - I hope there are some left out there.

I got your point. In fact, I was in Kuwait for almost a year back after Desert Storm, as a project engineer for Bechtel, out of our San Francisco office. I understand at the time that Kuwait was the more, if not the most "liberal" among the Middle East countries. But still, I appreciate how the women of the Third World, Filipina or other, are treated. It is a shame and it makes me angry too. Even as recent as last year and in Singapore; where an Indian engineer-colleague about his getting "cheap" Filipina. He may be lying or bragging as younger men do. I felt like hitting him. Anyway, that's one of the dangers of being poor and a woman especially in another country. And how one of our kind behaves can lead to sterotypes, bad or good. That's why I am angry at our so-called leaders (more aptly, rulers)who do not have any empathy for the common tao, and just keep on kissing the foreign ass at the expense of their fellow countrymen, to keep their positions of power and the prerogatives from such. That's why we natives should know/learn from/understand our nationalist past and work actively to free ourselves as our other Asian neighbors have done. It will take a long while but if we start now, the next generation or so will not forget that we struggled for them.

Post a Comment

• School & Learning
• Relationships
• Movies & TV
• Food & Drink
• Kaya Today!
• 8list Plays
• 8List Explores
• 8List Presents
• Isabuhay Ang Panata
• #8MinutesWith
• YOUth DECIDE
• Str8 Up with Delamar
• Toughest Job 2016
• Bitesized.ph
• Windowseat.ph

8List.ph is published by ID8, Inc.

Toxic Filipino Culture: 8 Harmful Pinoy Habits We Need to Outgrow ASAP

• Posted on Jun 8, 2022 Dec 14, 2022
• 4 minute read

Cristina Morales

Jun 8, 2022   •   Cristina Morales

Filipino culture is a multi-faceted, complicated thing that has so much to offer the world. But it isn’t perfect. Like many other cultures, we’re prone to certain toxic patterns that may seem relatively harmless on the surface, but have repercussions that can hurt generations. As we approach Independence Day and celebrate our history, consider this an opportunity to reflect on what we can do to help our society move forward into a happier and healthier state.

Here are just some deeply embedded toxic aspects of Filipino culture we should leave behind.

8. Treating kids like retirement funds

If you’re considering having kids and one of your top reasons is you’ll need someone to support you when you’re old, you need to take a good look at your life and your choices, because that’s hella toxic. Kids aren’t investments; in fact, they’re pretty expensive. So if you want to retire rich, make actual  financial investments instead.

Having offspring so you can have a safety net in the future will inevitably result in unhappy kids who will likely one day view you as a burden. Do you really want that?

7. Entitlement to pasalubong/palibre

Don’t get us wrong — pasalubong culture can be a great thing. In its purest form, it’s a way to show loved ones that while you were elsewhere exploring the world, you still had them in mind. But sadly, some entitled jerks folks have warped this custom and made it feel like an obligation.

Balikbayan neighbor comes home for the first time in years? They ask for pasalubong. A second cousin recently got a job? They ask for libre. It’s no wonder that some OFWs dread coming home because it means having to overspend on everyone they come across.

Once we start treating pasalubongs as a bonus — instead of something that we’re entitled to — our relationships (not to mention our bank accounts) will be so  much healthier.

6. Utang na loob

Scratch my back and I’ll scratch yours — with interest. That’s basically the gist of the utang na loob mindset, and while that isn’t necessarily a bad thing, it’s prone to abuse. People can (and often do) misuse utang na loob to guilt-trip family members into treating them a certain way. Some use utang na loob to pull unethical favors in the workplace or even politics.

5. Crab mentality

Crab mentality — or the tendency to treat people badly when they’re ahead of us — isn’t unique to the Philippines. Envy, after all, is a normal, universal experience. But crab mentality is especially prevalent here, perhaps because our communities are so tight-knit, or maybe because so many of us can’t shake the belief that other people’s success is a result of our own loss. Crab mentality may also be the result of a twisted form of  pakikisama  — they don’t want to be left behind, so they pull people down so that they can all be equal again.

Whatever the reason, it’s something that we should outgrow ASAP. We’re all doing life at our own pace and we shouldn’t compare. When we see our peers doing better than us, we should celebrate with them and maybe even use that as motivation to work hard and achieve success as well.

3. Being onion-skinned

We Filipinos are a thin-skinned bunch. When someone (especially foreigners) writes something about our country that’s even just a tiny bit critical, hordes of Pinoys will take this as their cue to defend the country’s honor and call that opinion stupid, the opinion-giver a fool, and, if the critic happens to be in the Philippines, inevitably tell him/her to go back to where they came from. But people are allowed to have opinions and vocalize them — as long as they’re not being a racist jerk about it, why react so violently?

Apart from looking like oversensitive babies, not listening to criticism can also do us a disservice. Negative feedback can show us areas where we need to grow. This may be a radical idea for many Pinoys out there, but it is possible to love your country and be proud to be Filipino AND acknowledge that it needs work . In fact, turning a blind eye to its problems doesn’t do the country any favors. How can we hope to improve if we don’t call out what’s wrong with it?

8 Reasons ‘Reklamo Ka Nang Reklamo, Wala Ka Naman Naiambag’ Is a Disingenuous Argument 8 Reasons ‘Reklamo Ka Nang Reklamo, Wala Ka Naman Naiambag’ Is a Disingenuous Argument Tim Henares | Mar 22, 2020

3. Putting politicians on pedestals

Government officials aren’t our country’s heroes and saviors. They’re people that we have elected to use our hard-earned taxes to serve the public. So when they do something good, we can be grateful, but we shouldn’t fall down at their feet for simply doing their job. And when they aren’t doing their job properly, it’s only right that they are called out for it.

‘Nagsisilbi Ka Dapat’: Dear Politicians, Ben&Ben and SB19 Have a Message for You ‘Nagsisilbi Ka Dapat’: Dear Politicians, Ben&Ben and SB19 Have a Message for You Edgardo Toledo | May 06, 2022

2. Internalized racism

It’s been over 100 years since we won our freedom from Spain and almost 80 since we were “given” our freedom by the Americans , yet we still haven’t completely shaken our self-hatred. Sure, we’re quick to comment “Pinoy pride” when Filipinos abroad get any form of recognition, but we also ridicule thick Filipino accents, devalue local brands, and whiten our skin/get our noses done to fit Eurocentric beauty standards.

Centuries of colonial oppression have given us a lot of baggage to unpack, but being aware of our internalized racism will help us avoid perpetuating it.

1. Romanticizing Filipino resilience

Yes, it’s amazing how Filipinos are able to survive the worst disasters and adversities. But we should also stop settling for the bare minimum. When people use our resilience as an excuse for incompetence, that’s just toxic positivity that normalizes suffering. A life of struggle shouldn’t be the norm. The Filipino deserve better.

Follow us on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , Tiktok , and Youtube for the l8est entertaining, useful, and informative lists!

Though a chronic dabbler in whatever tickles her fancy, Cristina claims she can count her passions on one hand: feminism, literature, the environment, embroidery, and the power of a solid pop song. She lives in Uniqlo lounge pants and refuses to leave the house without a winged eye.

Find Your New Binge-Watch: 8 New Korean Dramas to Watch in June 2022

• Posted on Jun 8, 2022 Sep 12, 2022
• Meryl Medel

8 Questions We Want Answered in ‘All Of Us Are Dead’ Season 2

You may also like.

8 Reasons We’ll Forever Miss Wave 89.1

• Posted on Apr 16, 2024 Apr 16, 2024

Niña Ruiz Abad: Who is the 13-Year-Old Ilocano Girl Who May Become the Next Filipino Saint?

• Posted on Apr 12, 2024 Apr 12, 2024

VIRAL: Shaira Makes a Comeback with New Song ‘Selos na Yan Friend’

• Posted on Apr 8, 2024
• Edgardo Toledo

VIRAL: Teacher Gets Criticized for Scolding Students During Livestream

• Posted on Mar 18, 2024 Mar 18, 2024

‘Stop Roleplaying to Be a Family’: Netizen Gets Backlash After Criticizing Childless Couples

• Posted on Feb 24, 2024 Feb 23, 2024

Why Young Chinese Women Now Prefer AI Boyfriends Over Real Men

• Posted on Feb 19, 2024
• Kyzia Maramara

8 Telltale Signs That You’re Stuck in a Situationship

• Posted on Feb 16, 2024 Feb 16, 2024

Pinoys Slam Samgyeopsal Restaurant Following Shocking Valentine’s Day Promo

• Posted on Feb 14, 2024 Feb 16, 2024

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Input your search keywords and press Enter.

Uncovering the Negative Filipino Traits: What We Need to Address

Colonial mentality.

The Philippines is a beautiful country that boasts stunning landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality. As a tourist, you will undoubtedly experience the kindness and generosity of the Filipino people. However, one subtle but harmful trait that has plagued the national psyche is the colonial mentality. In this blog, we will delve deeper into this issue and how it affects people and society.

Firstly, let's define what colonial mentality is. It is a mindset and behavior that imitates or favors foreign cultures, often at the expense of one's own culture. This trait has its roots in the country's colonial past, where the Philippines was under Spanish, American, and Japanese rule for almost four centuries. Filipinos were forced to adapt to the foreign culture and language, leading to a lack of confidence in their own identity and capabilities.

How Does It Manifest

The colonial mentality manifests itself in different ways. One example is the preference for foreign products and brands, even if local alternatives are just as good or better. This behavior results from the belief that foreign products are of higher quality, while local products are inferior. Another example is the obsession with foreign looks and features, such as fair skin and a pointed nose, which are often associated with beauty and success. This behavior leads to discrimination and prejudice against people who do not conform to Western beauty standards.

Its Harmful Effects

The colonial mentality has a detrimental effect on the economy and society. Due to the preference for foreign products and the belief that foreigners are better, local entrepreneurs, and businesses struggle to compete, leading to a stagnant economy. Additionally, the colonial mentality fosters a culture of mediocrity and complacency, where Filipinos stop striving for excellence and settle for the second best. This attitude, in turn, affects the country's progress and development.

How To Eradicate It

The colonial mentality can only be eradicated by promoting a stronger sense of national identity and pride. The government and private sector must invest in promoting local products and businesses while highlighting their unique qualities and advantages. The education system must also emphasize the rich history and culture of the country, instilling a sense of pride and appreciation in the younger generation. Further, Filipinos must reject the notion that foreigners are always better and celebrate their beauty, culture, and achievements.

Filipino Time

When it comes to timekeeping, Filipinos have a reputation for being notoriously late. This trait, commonly known as "Filipino time," is deeply ingrained in the country's culture and is often seen as a source of frustration for both locals and tourists. While it may seem like a harmless quirk, the reality is that the negative effects of Filipino time can be far-reaching, particularly for the tourism industry. In this blog post, we'll explore the impact of this pervasive trait and what can be done to address it.

Impact On Local Life and Work

The negative impact of Filipino time can have a significant impact on the lives of Filipinos. For example, tardiness in a work setting can result in lost productivity and strained relationships with colleagues and clients. In addition, the acceptance of tardiness can lead to a lack of accountability and a general disregard for the importance of punctuality. This attitude can further perpetuate the cycle of tardiness, leading to a decline in overall productivity and economic progress.

The Upsides Of Filipino Time  

Although the negative effects of Filipino Time can be frustrating, it also has its upsides. Filipinos don't rush; instead, they enjoy the journey, take their time, and savor the moments. They are more interested in building relationships and connections than completing tasks on time. This trait can be advantageous to tourists who want to immerse themselves in a relaxed and laid-back environment while enjoying the beautiful scenery of the Philippines.

How To Deal With Filipino Time

It is best to always have a backup plan when dealing with Filipino Time. As mentioned earlier, it's better to arrive ahead of time and give allowances for potential delays. Tourists should also communicate clearly and directly with their Filipino counterparts to avoid misunderstandings. Maintaining patience and understanding can make a tremendous difference when dealing with Filipino Time.

Crab Mentality

The Philippines has long been considered a paradise for tourists because of its beautiful beaches, friendly locals, and vibrant culture. However, underneath the country's sunny facade lies a negative trait that many Filipinos struggle with: the "crab mentality." This trait refers to the desire to pull others down instead of helping them succeed, and it has been blamed for the country's slow progress and lack of national unity. As a tourist, it's important to understand this negative trait so you can navigate the local culture and avoid falling victim to it.

What Is Crab Mentality

Crab mentality is the tendency of Filipinos to hold back or even sabotage each other's success, often out of envy or insecurity. Just like how crabs in a bucket will try to climb out by pulling each other down, Filipinos may discourage, judge, or criticize those who are doing well to prevent them from rising above the rest. This trait is prevalent not only in the workplace but also in social circles and family relationships. It can manifest in different ways, such as gossiping, spreading false rumors, belittling others' achievements, and being passive-aggressive.

Reasons Behind Crab Mentality

There are several reasons why crab mentality exists in Philippine culture. One possible factor is the country's colonial past, where the ruling class benefited from divisive tactics to maintain their power. Another is the pervasive poverty and lack of opportunities, leading to a scarcity mentality where people feel like success is a zero-sum game. Add to that the fame and fortune that some celebrities have gained because of their talent, which caused some people to believe that those who are successful got lucky or used shortcuts to reach their status.

Impact of Crab Mentality

The impact of crab mentality in the Philippines is enormous. It creates a culture of distrust and competition, where people are hesitant to help each other and collaborate, fearing that it might put them at a disadvantage. This mentality causes slow economic growth and hinders social progress because it becomes difficult to accomplish things as a united front. It also fosters a negative image of the Philippines, tainting its reputation overseas and discouraging foreign investment.

Overcoming Crab Mentality

Overcoming crab mentality isn’t an easy task. It requires a change of mindset and behavior, which may take time and effort. One way to begin is by educating people about this negative trait and making them aware of the potential harm it can cause. Encouraging positive attributes such as collaboration, humility, and positivity helps foster unity and prevents strained relationships. By creating a culture of cooperation, Filipino people can work together to achieve their goals and make the Philippines prosper.

Ningas Cogon

One fascinating aspect of traveling is getting to know the customs and ways of living of the country you are visiting. In the Philippines, there is a cultural phenomenon called "ningas cogon," which means starting strong on a task but then losing interest, motivation, or perseverance before achieving success. The Filipino people are aware of this trait, but it is not always easy to explain to tourists. In this blog post, we will delve deep into "ningas cogon," its negative effects, and how it manifests in the local culture.

At its core, ningas cogon is a tendency to start with enthusiasm but fails to sustain it over time, usually due to a lack of direction, discipline, and focus. This trait can be observed across different life spheres, from personal and professional pursuits to community and national goals. For instance, a person may have a strong will to lose weight, start a new diet or exercise routine, but eventually gives up after only a few weeks or months. Or a company may launch a new marketing strategy, create hype around it, but then abandons it halfway through because it did not yield immediate results.

Why Is It Negative

Ningas cogon is a negative trait because it hinders progress and growth. It cultivates a culture of mediocrity, where short-term gains are favored over long-term benefits. Filipinos often joke about "Filipino time," meaning being late or arriving after the agreed-upon meeting time. This practice reveals not just a lack of punctuality but also a lack of respect for other people's time and commitment. Ningas cogon is also prevalent in governance and leadership. Elected officials may promise sweeping reforms and changes during campaigns but fail to deliver once in power. Furthermore, it causes frustration and disappointment among those who genuinely want to see positive change in their lives and country.

The roots of ningas cogon, as with any cultural trait, are complex. Some scholars suggest that the Philippines' history of colonialism, poverty, and patronage politics fostered a "survival mentality," in which immediate needs are prioritized over long-term planning or investment in development. Others argue that ningas cogon is a natural human tendency that manifests differently according to cultural contexts. Regardless of its origins, it is a pervasive trait that Filipinos themselves wish to overcome.

How To Overcome

Filipinos are not entirely helpless against ningas cogon. Many have recognized its negative effects and have taken steps to counteract it. One such step is the value of "diskarte," which means resourcefulness or creativity in solving problems. Filipinos are known for their ability to utilize limited resources to achieve their goals. Another value is "bayanihan," which means community spirit or teamwork in achieving a shared objective. By working together, Filipinos can sustain efforts towards a common goal and encourage others not to lose motivation. Lastly, the culture of "practical idealism" emphasizes the importance of balancing grand aspirations with tangible steps toward achieving them. By setting achievable targets and building on small successes, Filipinos can build a culture of perseverance rather than ending in ningas cogon.

Manana Habit

As a tourist, visiting a new country opens up a world of possibilities. Different cultures, traditions, and customs that you may have never experienced before, which is why traveling is a worthwhile adventure. However, every unique destination comes with specific traits and habits. In the Philippines, one such habit is called "Manana" or procrastination. While it may seem harmless, it can still have negative effects on your trip and Filipinos themselves. Thus, in this blog, we will dive deeper into this negative trait and what actions you can take to avoid it.

What is Manana Habit

It is a habit of delaying tasks, even if it's urgent. For example, if a Filipino says "now na," which translates to “now,” it may not always mean immediately. It can also mean later or possibly tomorrow. As a tourist, this can be frustrating if you need something done immediately, such as booking a last-minute tour or confirming your flight details. You may encounter a lack of urgency or sense of time, which can often lead to miscommunication and misunderstandings.

Why Is It A Negative Trait

While Manana is prevalent in the Philippines, it can also have negative consequences. One of the most common outcomes is that it can create a domino effect of delays and setbacks. This habit can affect productivity, efficiency, and trust. Be it in personal relationships or work-related tasks, the lack of reliability and timeliness can be detrimental and frustrating. Moreover, it can result in decreased customer satisfaction, especially for businesses in the tourism industry.

How Can You Avoid Manana Habit

Understanding how to avoid Manana Habit can save you from a lot of hassle during your trip. The first thing to consider is communication. When asking for something, it's essential to clarify the time frame and deadline. Also, it's best to follow up to ensure that the request has been completed within your desired time frame. Booking in advance and doing due diligence on hotels and tour companies that have a reputation for being timely and reliable can also be helpful.

What Can Filipinos Do to Address This Habit

The solution to Manana lies in a collective effort from Filipinos themselves. While it's easy to accept this trait, it's essential to recognize its impact on the economy and personal growth. Individually, Filipinos can prioritize time management, build self-discipline, and create a sense of urgency. However, a more effective approach to address Manana is to implement it at a systemic level. The government can enforce stricter policies, corporations can offer training, and schools can educate the youth on the importance of time management.

Bahala Na Attitude

The Filipino culture is rich in tradition, warm hospitality, and a sense of community. However, there is a negative trait that has been present in the Filipino people for centuries. This trait is known as "Bahala Na" or "come what may" mindset, which often leads to unreliable and irresponsible behavior resulting in significant problems. In this blog post, we will look into this negative trait, its origins, and its impact on Filipino culture and its people.

What is Bahala Na

The phrase Bahala Na is translated to "come what may" or "let it be." It is an expression of resignation and acceptance that things are out of one's control. While it may seem like a positive trait, it has a dark side that can cause problems, not just for locals but for tourists too. This attitude can be traced back to the Philippines' colonial past, where people had to endure difficult circumstances and had little to no control over their lives. Over time, this trait has been used to justify inaction, complacency, and even negligence.

How Common Is It

Bahala Na appears in everyday Filipino life in many forms. For example, when someone procrastinates on important tasks, they might say, "Bahala Na" as an excuse. Or, when someone takes unnecessary risks without proper planning or consideration, they might use the phrase "Bahala Na si Batman" (Let Batman handle it). While these examples may seem harmless, Bahala Na attitude can lead to more severe consequences.

Reliance on Luck

Filipinos' belief in luck and faith is another negative trait of the "bahala na" attitude. Many rely on fate and divine intervention to rescue them from difficult situations, instead of taking action and exerting effort to address the issue at hand. This mindset leads to lesser accomplishments and disappointment.

One Day Millionaire

The Philippines is a beautiful country with diverse landscapes, rich culture, and hospitable people. It is not uncommon to hear of Filipinos who can provide for their families despite financial struggles. However, there is a negative trait among some Filipinos called the "One Day Millionaire" syndrome. This blog post delves deeper into this unfavorable trait and its possible causes.

The term "One Day Millionaire" is used to describe Filipinos who suddenly become extravagant with their spending when they come into a large sum of money, often acting as if they are wealthy and can afford anything they want. This trait is associated with Filipino culture, which can be very communal and focuses on family. The desire to share their newfound wealth with their loved ones can lead them to overspend, to the point of being in debt as soon as the money runs out.

Possible Causes

One possible cause of the "One Day Millionaire" syndrome is the lack of financial literacy and planning. Many Filipinos do not have access to formal education and resources that would teach them about savings, investments, and other financial literacy topics. This lack of knowledge can lead to overspending and irresponsible financial behaviors. Another possible cause is the societal pressure to keep up with the appearance of wealth. Filipinos have a culture that places a high value on hierarchy and status symbols. This pressure can lead to overspending and frivolous purchasing as a way to establish one's status among peers.

Why It Happens

The "One Day Millionaire" syndrome can also be attributed to the pervasive poverty in the Philippines. Filipinos who come into sudden wealth often feel the need to help their loved ones and contribute to their communities by spending on lavish gifts or projects. Just as quickly as it came, the money runs out, leaving them in debt or back to their financial struggles.

Balikbayan Box Mindset

The Philippines is well-known for its unique culture, hospitable people, and, of course, balikbayan boxes. A balikbayan box is a package filled with goodies that Filipinos who work abroad send back to their loved ones. However, this seemingly generous gesture has become tainted with negative behaviors that reflect a deeper issue in Filipino mentality. In this blog post, we will dive into the dark side of balikbayan boxes and how it has become a negative trait of the Filipino mentality.

Exploitative Nature

The concept of balikbayan boxes started as a way for overseas Filipino workers to stay connected with their families and show their love and care. However, it has evolved into something more than that. Some Filipino consumers have developed an exploitative mindset when it comes to balikbayan boxes. They expect their loved ones abroad to send them huge boxes filled with expensive items upon their return. Not only does this create an unrealistic expectation, but it also puts a strain on the overseas Filipino worker's finances.

Consumerism

Another negative effect of balikbayan boxes is the consumeristic behavior it promotes. Instead of appreciating the gesture and effort put into sending a box of goodies, some Filipino consumers demand specific items that are not available in the Philippines. This sense of materialism can lead to a never-ending cycle of impulsive shopping and wastefulness.

Interpersonal Pressure

The pressure to send balikbayan boxes is not just felt by overseas Filipino workers but also by their loved ones back home. It has become a social obligation that Filipinos feel they need to fulfill, even if it means sacrificing their financial stability. This constant pressure can lead to mental and emotional stress, which can negatively affect relationships.

Honorable Mention 

Utang na loob.

Utang na loob is a unique Filipino concept that refers to the act of repaying a debt of gratitude. It is a fundamental part of Filipino culture, as it promotes loyalty and respect for those who have helped us during difficult times. Unfortunately, this cultural norm can be taken advantage of by some people, leading to an unhealthy sense of entitlement and exploitation. Utang na loob can lead to a culture of dependence, where people expect things to be given to them without asking or offering anything in return. This toxic behavior not only affects the giver but also prevents the receiver from developing independence and self-sufficiency.

Overall, it is important to recognize and address the negative traits that exist in our culture. Through open dialogue and self-reflection, we can come up with solutions that will help Filipinos overcome these undesirable qualities. We must strive to create an environment of acceptance and understanding, free from any toxic attitude or behavior. By working together, we can ensure that the positive Filipino traits remain a shining example of our vibrant culture. Furthermore, it will help us move towards a more progressive and successful society in the future. There is no better time than now to start addressing these negative Filipino traits and making sure they stay away from our future generations. Only then can we truly live up to the proud, positive Filipino traits and showcase our culture in its best light. 

Select area

• Santa Catalina
• Iloilo city

Your Nearby Location

This feature is available for logged in user.

Your Favorite

Post content.

All posting is Free of charge and registration is Not required .

Choose Country

• Arts and Culture
• entertainment
• Social Media
• health-and-wellness
• relationships
• personal-finance
• Sa Cebu Ra Ni
• celebrations
• pageant world
• property views
• faces of cebu
• msme corner
• CEBU DAILY NEWS
• arts & crafts
• health & wellness
• local films
• INQUIRER.net
• RADYO INQUIRER

Toxic Filipino Traits

Generally, Filipinos are known to be happy, friendly and very hospitable people and we are known for all these good qualities around the world!

But, let us face it, Filipino people also have annoying and bad habits that sometimes give the country a negative reputation. These habits not only pull us down personally but the entire nation as well.

1.) “Bahala na” Attitude

Roughly translated as “come what may”, this is the Filipinos’ own version of fatalism, the belief of trusting in Divine providence or leaving everything to the hands of fate. It is a Filipino’s way of avoiding rationalization or good reason, While this trait can sometimes be helpful in time of adversity, the mentality of “ what goes around, comes around,” can also keep us from finding ways out of tough situations.

This is the Filipino habit of leaving for tomorrow what can be done today. They tend to postpone their actions for a later time thus reducing accomplishments.

Filipinos are fond of saying “bukas na lang” or   “sa susunod na lang” due to laziness. This arises from a slack mentality that a problem will eventually go away by itself.

3.) Crab Mentality

Filipinos tend to possess this mentality especially when they feel insecure. In a way, crab mentality also promotes an unhealthy competition.

Instead of doing things that could help one to develop and become better than his competitors, Filipinos devote so much of their time gossiping and back-biting. It is their way of deviating people’s attention on their inadequacy by focusing on other people’s faults.

4.) Lack of self- discipline

We have laws and regulations in order to achieve a harmonious community.   However, most Filipinos have this penchant of disregarding the rules in order to prioritize what they want. There’s a theory that explains why Filipinos lack discipline or fail to implement rules, and it is something that is ingrained in our very culture.  Being oppressed by various colonizers for such a long time made our ancestors defiant of the rules they believed to be discriminatory; thus, creating a mentality of “self-righteous disobedience.” This is reflected on how Filipinos break laws to save time. For example, even when a signage clearly says ‘No Jaywalking’, Filipinos will still choose to cross the fatal road because it’s more convenient and for them “righteous” to cross there.

5.) Filipino Time

‘Related to the  mañana habit , Filipino time refers to the Filipinos’ own unique brand of time, which is known to be minutes or hours behind the scheduled or standard time. This behaviour drives time-observant foreigners to get frustrated because Filipinos tend not to observe punctuality at all. It’s a dreadful habit that needs to be stopped as it hinders productivity and progress. Not to mention that you’re not only wasting your own time but other people’s time as well./dbs

5 Films to Watch with your Family this Christmas Eve

5 smart ways to use your christmas money, 5 simple ways to plan a family christmas party.

Subscribe to our regional newsletter

By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy .

• Environment
• Siloy is watching

© 2018 Cebu Daily News - All Rights Reserved

Academia.edu no longer supports Internet Explorer.

To browse Academia.edu and the wider internet faster and more securely, please take a few seconds to  upgrade your browser .

Enter the email address you signed up with and we'll email you a reset link.

• We're Hiring!
• Help Center

A PHILOSOPHICAL REVIEW OF FILIPINO VALUES: AMBIVALENT VALUES (24th WCP 2018 Conf. Paper in China)

Filipino values embody the Filipino culture and reveal its underlying philosophy. Coherence in a value system is a presumed healthy sign, both at the individual and social level. In this essay, we employ an expository and reflective analysis of Filipino values, starting with those ambivalent in application. It is the task of philosophy to review values as part of critically examining the most fundamental assumptions that underlie our lives. To improve and develop society, philosophers must be able to promote mindfulness of both positive and negative value implications. By offering holistic and alternative views of Filipino values, philosophers can positively influence the maturation of the Filipino culture and philosophy. The Filipino family, being the most primal and most stable institution in the Philippine society, must be included in projects promoting a more coherent value system.

Related Papers

Marvin R. Soriano

It cannot be denied that values system greatly impacts society. Much has been said about how the way a group of people feel, think, and behave is highly affected by a set of values system that allow them to make a sense of their world and frame their specific objectives and actions. Values gives meaning to our actions; and likewise, our actions, in the greater scheme of things, are motivated and driven by values that we hold and cherish. The Filipino is an individual which is bounded by such system of traditional values. They shape his character, frame his understanding, and define his actions. Whether positively or negatively, much of our cherished values define the way we relate with other people and the larger society.

Carole Diamante

Juan Rafael Macaranas

Philippine history would explain how different countries and peoples came on the Philippine shores in varied historical periods: Negritoes, Malay, Hindu, Chinese, Spaniards, Americans, Japanese, and now Koreans. As a result, Filipino culture, traditions and values became a unique and dynamic set of indigenous and contextualized traditions and values brought in by different cultures. Some philosophers said that the authentic Filipino philosophy became obscured, confused, if not erased. More recently, there has been more confident and definite characterization of it. Many believe more work is needed to fully capture the Filipino philosophy. This paper is my beginner’s reflective piece as I join the now growing efforts to articulate the Filipino Philosophy. I will employ a narrative and reflective survey of the still young literature on Filipino Philosophy. I encourage philosophers and other scholars to take conscious and active effort in sustaining research on Filipino philosophy. Philosophy need to continually document and attempt to capture the essence of Filipino philosophy in Filipino traditions, lifestyle, writings and values, towards developing unifying thoughts. Philosophers, together with other scholars, must provide holistic views of the Filipino culture to push for the maturation of the nation’s identity and philosophy.

Jaime Alfredo Cabrera

This paper discusses the articulation of Filipino philosophy as well as the foundations, development, and influences of modern philosophy in the context of the established canons of Western philosophical tradition. Philosophies are beliefs of being, doing, and relating; ideas that are established enough to be observable as consistent and stable behavioral phenomena over time. Modern Filipino philosophy refers to shared beliefs in ways of doing, being, and relating that are observable between 1946 and 1994 as behaviors among the cultures and subgroups of the Philippine Archipelago, including Filipinos who are working or living overseas. This paper presents elements of philosophical articulation of native Filipino thought. The paper answers three research questions. (1) What is Filipino philosophy? (2) How did modern philosophy begin and develop? (3) How can modern philosophy influence Filipino philosophy? The debate in literature is that Filipino philosophy is at its nascent stage, originating from folk wisdom, religion, and contacts with foreign cultures; extant as philosophic acts, beliefs, or mind-sets but never formally articulated according to the canons of the dominant philosophic tradition and; is continually reshaped by technological, scientific, and significant historical events that elicit strong or deep feelings and reactions throughout the country. Older thought patterns and behaviors are preserved by traditional circles and conservative environments but changes continue. Meanwhile, for global understanding, the need to articulate modern Filipino philosophical thought in ways that can be clearly understood by other cultures is increasingly urgent. This paper presents some tools and approaches to help meet the challenges of articulating modern Filipino philosophy: (a) articulating native philosophical thought in oral tradition, folk wisdom, and indigenous literature in accordance with the world‘s established canons of philosophical tradition; (2) developing precise and succinct native vocabulary to parallel the vocabulary of the dominant philosophical tradition; (3) identifying national philosophic thought and principles from events that elicit nationwide emotion and create behavior patterns observable throughout the country over a significant period of time; (4) deducing philosophical notions from patterns in linguistic elements common in speech and texts among the nation‘s various languages; and (5) identifying philosophic trigger points in the nation‘s history that have and can shape the development of philosophic thought.

Lowel J Domocmat

Kaisipan 1 (1)

Rolando M Gripaldo

Contrary to what skeptics believed, there is Filipino philosophy in the Western traditional sense that should be distinguished from ethnophilosophy or cultural philosophy. This paper tries to elucidate this philosophical development by identifying the Western model of philosophizing, by clarifying the meaning of “Filipino philosophy,” by giving examples from the history of Filipino philosophers, and by mentioning the significance and prospects of Filipino philosophizing.

Jeremiah Lasquety-Reyes

This is an introduction to a Filipino virtue ethics which is a relationship-oriented virtue ethics. The concepts to be discussed are the result of the unique history of the Philippines, namely a Southeast Asian tribal and animist tradition mixed with a Spanish Catholic tradition for over three-hundred years. Filipino virtue ethics is based on two foundational concepts in Filipino culture. The first is loób, which can easily be misunderstood when literally translated into English as “inside” but which is better translated as “relational will,” and the second is kapwa, which is literally translated as “other person” but is better understood as “together with the person.” These serve as pillars for a special collection of virtues (kagandahang-loób, utang-na-loób, pakikiramdam, hiya, lakas-ng-loób/bahala na) which are not individualistic virtues in the same way as most of the cardinal virtues of the Western tradition (i.e., prudence, justice, temperance and fortitude) but are all directed towards the preservation and strengthening of human relationships. This introduction to a Filipino virtue ethics is articulated and organized through a dialogue with Aristotelian-Thomistic virtue ethics.

B. Moreno Bragas

This year marks the 500 years of Christianity in the Philippines. Thus, the legacies of historic Christian mission and colonialism is highly regarded as monumental to Philippine history. The theological ethics of Christianity permeated in the Filipino people's lives indeed. In this paper, however, I argue that the known Filipino values need not be totally despised as scornful traits when it is rightly understood in the utterance of virtuous Filipinos. In fact in order for the Filipino to experience authentic Christian transformation, all our values need to be the stimuli of our actions and convictions, as these may be aligned to character formation that need to be enhanced through habituation in its right manifestation. In the first section, I will briefly survey the known Filipino values and highlight the negative implications that effectuated in a Filipino and the society at large. I shall also discuss in the next section a misconception in Evangelical theology that human beings are naturally sinful, thereby making all its faculties flawedeven that of the Filipino traits. In ending, I will synthesize the Filipino Value System and Christian Theological Ethics.

Dan Boragay

RELATED PAPERS

Metamorfosa: Journal of Biological Sciences

midel ndolu

Elizabeth Joseph-Shehu

Andrea Pacheco Pacifico

Journal of Pharmaceutical & Scientific Innovation

Christopher Vimalson

Croatica Chemica Acta

Janusz Szklarzewicz

Cristian camilo Delgado Casanova

Physical Review C

Armen Sedrakian

Marine Environmental Research

Monica Margalef Gil

Hanan El Mekawy

Ivonne Maya Espinoza

Quaternary International

Pablo Sañudo Die

Telecommunications Policy

Joachim Henkel

Frontiers in Psychology

bruria adini

Stefan Schob

Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Bioenergetics

BASE - Revista de Administração e Contabilidade da Unisinos

Marcelle Colares Oliveira

RECEP TEMEL

Maurizio Simionato

Psicologia em Estudo

Fernando Capovilla

Mitteilungen der Deutschen mathematiker-Vereinigung

Brigitte Lutz-Westphal

Jônatas Manzolli

International journal of computer applications

Shama Parween

Journal of Biological Chemistry

Sarmistha Mukherjee

Espaco para a Saúde

Roberto Z Esteves

International Journal of Research in Engineering and Technology

Prema Sudha

RELATED TOPICS

•   We're Hiring!
•   Help Center
• Find new research papers in:
• Health Sciences
• Earth Sciences
• Cognitive Science
• Mathematics
• Computer Science
• Academia ©2024

6 Negative Pinoy Traits That Need to Change

Filipinos are generally joyful, loving, and hospitable people! In fact, we are known around the world for all those good qualities. But, let’s face it, we are far from being perfect! We still have these negative Pinoy traits that need to change for the better.

Filipinos have been living and complaining about the same old toxic Filipino culture for years, yet we shrug it off just because it was deemed as acceptable in our families. Still, every day we ask ourselves, “Why is the Philippines still in the same place as it is 30, 50, 80 or 100 years ago?” Perhaps the answers just lies within us!

We listed down toxic Filipino attitudes that today’s generation cannot ignore anymore. Let’s begin!

1. “Filipino Time”

Filipino time is usually equated to being late and it’s just an end result of a reason deeper than tardiness. Some of us tend to think that everything would be ‘ok’ so just ‘relax’. They tend not to pressure themselves even if it means being disrespectful of other’s time. Self comes first for people who practice this.

Many factors are attributed to being late in the Philippines. A favorite reason is traffic. In recent decades, thousands of people may have reasoned out traffic as an excuse for being late and that is true in most cases. This however, is not an acceptable reason. If you really want to be on time, you should leave and travel earlier. But then again, there may still be other factors to consider such as vehicular accidents or emergencies.

Being late is one of the negative Pinoy traits. And it’s even sadder that it’s being named ‘Filipino time’ even if people from other countries can be late just like everybody else. But instead of conforming to the ‘”Filipino Time,” why not change the system? Be there on time, and be strict when you set a schedule. This way, you can help eradicate the concept of lateness in the Philippines and be first to exemplify punctuality in your office. Let everyone follow because now’s the right time to be on time—not after thirty minutes, and definitely not later than that.

2. Ningas Cogon Mentality

It refers to the Filipino cultural trait of enthusiastically starting things, but then quickly losing enthusiasm soon after. Since when you light up a ‘cogon’ you would observe how it catches fire and poof…it’s gone. So the metaphor “ningas cogon” was coined to mean projects, promises, or decisions that were started on a high note but immediately stopped or were left unfinished. An example is a new year’s resolution . How long could you keep it?

Avoid starting a goal, project, or resolution if you know in yourself that you cannot finish it!

3. Greeting people with “ Tumaba ka! ”

Guys, let’s just all agree. No one likes to be greeted with this. People are generally conscious about their appearance, but it’s also not the nicest thing to do when you greet someone with a comment on their weight. Some may even consider it rude. Besides, when you haven’t seen someone in a while, wouldn’t the best first thing to say to them be: “Uy, kumusta?”

4. Colonial Mentality

Probably one of the biggest flaws we have as a nation is our colonial mentality. Defined as a preference for all things foreign over our own, a negative trait we acquired from our days under the Spanish and Americans. As a result, we Filipinos have been indoctrinated with the misconception that our culture is inferior to that of our past rulers.

Glaring examples of colonial mentality include patronizing foreign instead of local brands, favoring foreign values over our own, and even desiring to look more “Western”. If we can’t even have pride in our own country and culture, then we’re in trouble. Unfortunately we will always be stuck with this self-defeating mentality. Time for a change!

5. “ Bahala na ” mentality

Filipinos are generally happy, resilient people. Those are some of our best traits. But sometimes, also to a fault. We can be a bit nonchalant and even unbothered by things that we should be preparing for. Maybe it’s our jolly nature. But instead of just going “bahala na” in the face of challenge or a decision, wouldn’t it be more awesome if we could face it and say to ourselves instead: “I got this!”

6. Parents seeing children as trust funds

One old belief Filipinos hold up to now is that parents think that their children are the ones who will help them rise above poverty and corruption. When in fact, before starting a family, parents should have been financially stable beforehand. This is another one of several negative Pinoy traits that must cease to exist.

Yes, we understand that there could have been more reasons as to why this happens, but in today’s world, family planning should be easier. In fact, it has become a necessity. Unfortunately, some Filipinos are close-minded with family planning.

On the flip side, there are many things we can be proud of as Filipinos and  positive traits we should practice at all times. So it’s important that as we try to fix our flaws, we also remain proud of attributes unique to us Filipinos.

Related Articles

Why Do We Love “Pinoybaiting” So Much?

5 Unsung Heroes of Philippine History

6 Filipino Comfort Food During The Rainy Season

19 Reasons Why SB19 is The New Face of Pinoy Pop

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Home / Essay Samples / World / Philippines / Discovering My Identity: Embracing Filipino Values and Traits

Discovering My Identity: Embracing Filipino Values and Traits

• Category: Life , Government , World
• Topic: About Myself , Philippine Government , Philippines

Pages: 2 (928 words)

Views: 1309

• Downloads: -->

--> ⚠️ Remember: This essay was written and uploaded by an--> click here.

Found a great essay sample but want a unique one?

are ready to help you with your essay

You won’t be charged yet!

India Essays

Tokyo Essays

Vietnam Essays

North Korea Essays

Russia Essays

Related Essays

We are glad that you like it, but you cannot copy from our website. Just insert your email and this sample will be sent to you.

By clicking “Send”, you agree to our Terms of service  and  Privacy statement . We will occasionally send you account related emails.

Your essay sample has been sent.

In fact, there is a way to get an original essay! Turn to our writers and order a plagiarism-free paper.

samplius.com uses cookies to offer you the best service possible.By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .--> -->