NSTP / Filipino Values and Moral Development

Module 3

ROOTS OF THE
FILIPINO CHARACTER
 Objectives
• Identify factors affecting the Filipino character

• Enumerate the strengths of the Filipino character

• Identify the weaknesses of the Filipino character

The Family and Home Environment:
introduction
– Focus on how family relations and child-rearing practices affect
character development.
Social Environment
– Ephasize the concept that "No man is an island" and the need for
social support.
Culture and Language

– The culture of the Filipino is also characterized by being open minded to the outside
forces which easily accepts foreign elements without being conscious of cultural core. This
brought about our colonial mentality in which we feel the white Americans are superior to
us, hence the acceptance of the English language as the medium of instruction in schools.
Discuss warmth, person-orientation, and openness to foreign elements, leading to colonial
mentality History, Educational System, Religion, Economic Environment, Political
Environment, Mass Media, and Leadership/Role Models.
HISTORY
– The product of our colonial history is our mentality, which
is regarded as the culprit for our lack of nationalism.
Colonialism developed a mind-set on us , to think of the
colonial power as superior and more powerful.
The Educational System

– The Philippine educational system was patterned after the

American system. Because of this, English became the main
medium of instruction in schools. While this helped Filipinos
communicate internationally, it also caused some students to feel
that foreign culture and language are superior, which may lead to
low self-confidence and less appreciation of Filipino culture.
 Religion
– Most Filipinos believe in life after death, which is why religious
teachings are practiced in daily life. From a young age, Filipinos are
taught the words of God and moral values through the Church, such as
kindness, forgiveness, patience, and compassion.
Because of religion, Filipinos are known to be optimistic and resilient. In
times of hardship, many Filipinos turn to prayer and faith, believing that
God will help them overcome problems. This faith gives them hope and
strength even during difficult situations.
The Economic Environment
– Because many Filipinos experience poverty and lack of economic
opportunities, they are often forced to work hard at a young age to
help support their families. This situation develops traits such as
industriousness, perseverance, and sacrifice.
 The Political Environment
– The political environment has a strong influence on the Filipino character, shaping
attitudes toward leadership, authority, and citizenship.
Because of a long history of colonization and political struggles, many Filipinos
developed a tendency to depend on leaders rather than actively participate in
governance. This has resulted in traits such as obedience to authority and reliance on
political figures for solutions.

Mass Media
– also strongly influences lifestyle and values. Many Filipinos imitate celebrities,
influencers, and foreign cultures they see in media. This can lead to
materialism, unrealistic standards of beauty and success, and the belief that
fame and wealth are the most important goals in life.
Strengths of the Filipino Character
1. Pakikisama
Example: A Filipino adjusts to others in the group to maintain harmony, even setting aside
personal preferences to avoid conflict.
2. Bayanihan (Spirit of Unity)
Example: Neighbors helping each other carry a house, clean after a typhoon, or organize community relief
operations.
3. Hospitality
Example: Filipinos warmly welcome guests by offering food, drinks, and a place to stay, even if they have
limited resources.
4. Utang na Loob (Debt of Gratitude)
Example: A person helps or supports someone who once helped their family, showing loyalty and gratitude.
5. Pakikipagkapwa-tao (Concern for Others)
Example: Showing respect to elders by saying po and opo, helping strangers, and being sensitive to others’
feelings.
6. Family Orientation
Example: Filipinos work hard, even abroad, to support their families and prioritize family needs over personal
desires.
7. Joy and Humor
Example: Filipinos laugh, joke, and find happiness even during difficult situations, such as after disasters or
8. flexibility, adaptability, and creativity
Example: in daily life. They show flexibility through the Bayanihan spirit, helping neighbors during crises,
juggling multiple responsibilities at home and work, and handling unexpected situations like traffic delays
or power outages with humor and patience. Their adaptability is evident in the way Overseas Filipino
Workers adjust to new countries, cultures, and work environments.
[Link] Work and Industry
Example:Hard Work Definition: The consistent effort and dedication to complete tasks, achieve goals,
and improve oneself or one’s situation, even in challenging circumstances. Explanation in the Filipino
context: Filipinos are known for their strong work ethic. They are willing to put in long hours, whether in
formal employment, family responsibilities, or personal projects. Hard work is often tied to providing for
family, improving quality of life, or achieving education
10 . Faith in God
Example: In times of hardship, Filipinos pray, attend church, and trust that God will help them
overcome their problems.
11 . Ability to survive
Example: .The capacity to endure, overcome challenges, and continue living productively
despite hardships, crises, or limited resources. Explanation: Filipinos often face natural
disasters, economic difficulties, and social challenges. Their ability to survive shows not
just physical endurance but emotional resilience, creativity in problem-solving, and a
strong community spirit. Survival is about adapting, persisting
weakness of the filipino character
1. Bahala na Attitude Definition: Leaving matters to fate or chance, trusting that “things will work out.”
Explanation: While sometimes showing courage, it can also lead to irresponsibility or neglect of
important decisions.
Example: Not saving money or preparing for disasters because “it will be okay.”
2. Ethnocentrism, Xenocentrism, and Cultural Relativism
Ethnocentrism: Judging other cultures based on one’s own standards.
Xenocentrism: Believing foreign things are superior to local ones.
Cultural Relativism: Understanding practices only within the context of one’s culture without critical
assessment.
Example: Preferring foreign brands over Filipino products or thinking Western ways are always
better.
3. Kanya-kanya Syndrome Definition: Self-serving and selfish behavior, often accompanied by
envy of others’ success.
Explanation: Leads to crab mentality, gossip, and intriga that undermine cooperation.
Example: Criticizing or sabotaging peers who succeed instead of celebrating their achievements.
[Link] and Lack of Initiative Definition: Reluctance to act or take responsibility despite having
talents or abilities. Example: Waiting for instructions instead of proposing solutions, or hesitating to
start a business despite having good ideas.
5. Lack of Exhaustive Study and Self-analysis Definition: A tendency to be superficial or not thoroughly
reflective about oneself or important issues.
Explanation: This limits personal growth, critical thinking, and the ability to make informed decisions.
Filipinos may sometimes focus more on appearances or quick solutions rather than understanding the
deeper implications of actions.
Example: Maporma—prioritizing looking good or appearing competent without putting in the hard work
or effort behind the scenes.
6. Colonial Mentality Definition: A mindset shaped by historical colonization, where Filipinos may
undervalue their own culture, products, and heritage.
Explanation: This can result in lack of patriotism, preference for foreign ideas, and diminished national
pride, weakening national integration.
Examples: Preferring imported goods over local products. Believing foreign ideas or ways are superior to
Filipino ones.
7. Extreme Personalism Definition: Valuing people and situations primarily based on
personal relationships.
Explanation: Filipinos may judge the importance of ideas, rules, or tasks based on whether
they have a personal connection rather than on merit or fairness.
Example: Favoring friends or relatives in business deals or hiring, rather than considering
qualifications.
8. Extreme Family-Centeredness Definition: Excessive loyalty to family that can override concern for
the larger community or common good. Explanation: While valuing family is a strength, extreme focus
can lead to factionalism, nepotism, patronage, or political dynasties, and can hinder national
consciousness. Example: Protecting erring family members at the expense of justice or fairness in
society.
[Link] Habit (Procrastination) Definition: The tendency to delay or postpone tasks.
Explanation: This habit can reduce productivity, lead to missed opportunities, and cause
unnecessary stress. It reflects a lack of discipline and forward planning.
Example: Delaying school assignments, work responsibilities, or even long-term planning until
the last minute.