Module 9

Indigenous Filipino Psychology:

Kapwa at Pakikipagkapwa
In the Filipino context, relations are very
important. This is the very basic premise of the
theory of Virgilio Enriquez’s Kapwa Psychology,
which he introduced as a vital concept in the
field of Filipino Psychology. In English, the term
that is closest to “kapwa” is “others,” but this
term recognizes the self as something that is
separate and distinct.
Kapwa refers to a shared identity of self
and others (Enriquez, 1994). He considers
kapwa as a core value of Filipino
Psychology where other important Filipino
values are connected.

Pakikipagkapwa refers to the social

manifestations of kapwa.
Pe-Pua & Marcelino (2000) provide a comprehensive
discussion of Filipino values as studied by various Filipino
psychologists in their article about the contributions of
Virgilio Enriquez to the field.

Filipino values were classified by Enriquez according to

interpersonal values and socio-personal values.
These interpersonal values are manifested in the
personal relations of Filipinos with others, while societal
values are manifested on a more macro level in society.
The interpersonal values are further classified
according to:

• Colonial or accommodative surface values

• Confrontative surface values
• Pivotal interpersonal value

While societal values are classified according

to:
• Linking socio-personal value
Accommodative Surface Values
• Hiya – usually translated as “shame” by foreign
scholars. Filipino psychologists emphasize the
importance of understanding hiya in terms of
affixations in the word. The meaning of the
word can change depending on affixations like
nakakahiya (“embarrassing”) is different from
ikinahiya or “to be embarrassed for someone”.
Salazar focused on the internal and external
dimensions of the term hiya, which he translated
as a “sense of propriety.”
• Utang na loob – usually translated as
“debt of gratitude” or “principle of
reciprocity”. But Enriquez defined utang
na loob as “gratitude/solidarity.” It is not
obligatory, since there will always be an
opportunity in the future to show utang na
loob.
• Pakikisama – earlier related to
maintaining “smooth interpersonal
relations” by conforming to a group. But
later, Enriquez defined it as “being along
with,” and “companionship.”
Confrontative Surface Values
• Bahala na – usually translated as “fatalism” by
foreign scholars, but later, Filipino psychologists
like Lagmay defined it as “determination and risk-
taking.” According to Lagmay (1977 as cited in Pe-
pua & Marcelino 2000), when a Filipino says
bahala na, he is prepared to face difficult
situations and do his best to overcome these
situations.
• Lakas ng loob and pakikibaka – are also
included in confrontative values.
Pivotal Interpersonal Value

Pakikiramdam – considered as an a priori or

pivot value.
• This is critical since it is a shared inner
perception and heightened awareness that
the person should possess prior to
experiencing good interpersonal relations
(Enriquez, 1994).
These Filipino values introduced by Enriquez can be seen
in the relationships of Filipinos across different contexts,
most especially with their families.
Because of the collectivist nature of Filipino society, the
family is the prototype of all social relationships (Triandis,
1994 as cited in Macapagal, Ofreneo, Montiel, & Nolasco,
2013).
The usual set-up for Filipino families is the “extended
family,” which makes the family bigger compared to a
nuclear family (Covar, 1999).
The concept of “filial piety” is very much valued in the
Filipino family.
Understanding the
Values of the Mangyans
in Mindoro
Andres (2006) enumerates various Filipino values the
Mangyans possess. He mentions that Mangyans value:

• A show of respect for their elders through kissing of the

hand or “mano”
• Pakikiramay – expressing sympathy for an offended or
bereaved family
• Bayanihan – helping with any group work or task,
evident during planting season, where people help
without any compensation except for a free meal
• Kasipagan – manifested in their planting practices
• Barkadahan – forming strong ties, especially since
people of Mindoro come from different regions
• Takot sa Diyos, pagmamagandang loob, and
pakikipagkapwatao

Postma (2005) says that Mangyans avoid saying bad

words to their kapwa, even when wronged.
They avoid cursing, showing close affinity among
themselves through the ritual of “sandugo”, done by
Mangyan males.
Aside from values, the Mangyans are
known to be very superstitious. This is
immensely integrated into their value
system (Ramschie, 2008).
Everyday activities are guided by their
superstitions and ideas.
Family Values
Filial piety is one observable feature among Mangyans.
Parents are well respected and have full authority to decide
even on the future spouse/s of their children (Hebling & Schult,
2004).
Contrary to common beliefs, a Mangyan family is not
egalitarian.
The father is still considered the dominant figure in the family.
During public discussions, the opinions of men are given more
weight than those of women (Hebling & Schult, 2004).
As with other IP groups in the Philippines,
Mangyan elders have great influence and
authority.
They are given higher recognition and
deference than government officials do.
They are seen as persons of vast experience,
wisdom, and knowledge (Ramschie, 2008).
They are trusted to provide the most prudent
and unbiased decision in arbitration of disputes
and conflicts (Bawagan, 2009).
Peaceful Behavior and Reciprocity

A notable custom among Mangyans is their peaceable

attitude and gentle behavior (Hebling & Schult, 2004).
They disagree with aggressive and boastful behavior,
which could provoke misunderstanding.
They promote mutual respect and show amiable affection
even to strangers.
Reciprocity is highly considered at all levels of social
relations (Ramschie, 2008).
The ideals of reciprocity and non-violence are
the guiding principle among the Mangyans in
relation to neighboring groups (Lauser, 1999).
They show a friendly, good-natured, and
cordial attitude with other groups in their
community.
In case of disagreement, the elders and
leader seek ways to resolve the matter
through peaceful means.
THANKYOU FOR LISTENING