Chapter I

THE PROBLEM AND IT’S BACKGROUND

I.Introduction

Since, Filipino values have become one of the most important parts of

the Philippine history. Filipinos up today and yesterday were described

through their traditional values. Actually, it was one of the major factors of

invasion and domination of the Philippines by the neighboring nations. The

coming of invaders in the country marked the beginning of the entrance of

foreign influences that brought changes and alternations in the moods of the

long-cherished Filipino values.

For the fact, Young Filipinos of today look far different from their

forefathers in the manner they speak, act, dress, in the mode of living and

other aspects. But then, cultural traces inherited from ancestors are carried

from generation to generation in varying degrees. Presently, traces of this

culture can be gleaned through typical ways shown in relation to their

everybody dealings with each other.

Because of our vulnerability to outside influences, our actions today in

terms of cultural traits are very much affected by our connections with the

foreigners who came to our shores. We easily picked up many of their cultural

traits.

It is for us now to decide whether we should be better known as

Filipinos in the manner we act. We can’t deny that it is a fact that we began to

fail identify in us Filipinos qualities that we should uphold as true Filipinos.

In this research work, the researchers want to give the readers a

glimpse of Filipino values, its austere condition at present.

II.Statement of the Problem

This study is conducted to find out the current plight of Filipino values.

The study specifically answers the following questions:

Are Filipino values really fading out?

1. What are common qualities of Filipinos as of today?

2. What are some of the traditional Filipino values?

3. What are the factors behind the slowly fading of Filipino values?

III.Significance of the Study

The study gives the reader a glimpse of values upholds in every

Filipino individual. This study is purposely for everybody especially for those

who are interested in the topic particularly people who are conditionally

studies on the same or connected topic. It aims to give the readers the

awareness of the current plight of the Filipino National character. Moreover,

the study aims to knock the heart and awaken the minds of the readers to

move them into action. In addition, the author wishes to encourage the

readers to pay attention to the most neglected social problem, the fading of

Filipino values. This study will also give the readers the chance to go over the

most common traditional values and make proper valuing to reinforce

observation and practice our beautiful customs, beliefs, and traits as Filipinos.
 3

To sum up, we are considering the study as a revelation that all of us are the

root cause of the problem.

IV.Scope and Limitations of the Study

This study limitedly deals with the present status of Filipino values

including the factors behind its fading. Furthermore, its effect in the current

Philippine economical, social and political condition will also be discussed.

V.Definition of Terms

The following terms were defined according the purpose of the study

to make them clearer to the readers:

Character. Is the aggregate of feature and traits that form the individual

nature of a person.1

Culture. Is the ways of living built up by a human group and transmitted

to succeeding generations.2

Deteriorate. To make or become worse in character or quality.3

Fade. To disappear gradually of die out.4

Manner. Is the prevailing customs of people, class or period or the ways

of behaving with reference to polite standards.5

Traits. A distinguishing character or quality.6

Values. The abstract concepts of what is right or worthwhile.7

___________________
1
Random House Webster’s Dictionary (New York: Ballantine Books,
2001), p.118
2
Ibid.,p.172.
3
Ibid.,p.193.
4
Ibid.,p.254.
5
Ibid.,p.439.
6
Ibid.,p.758.
7
Ibid.,p.791.
 Chapter II

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES

A.Related Literature

This chapter presents a brief discussion of related literature and

studies of local authorities which have provided background of the study.

According to Bacilig, values are our inner powers. They make us feel

truly strong and alive. They give us the needed enthusiasm and energy in life.

Love, affection or care as a value is the willingness to reach out to other

persons in order to give them support and to experience their support in

return. When we give importance to love, we are not afraid to make friends

with others. Faith in God as a value is the inner connection that there is God,

in whom we can place all our trust, and whose laws we should always follow

and obey. When we value faith, we are not afraid. We are certain that God will

take care of us.8

Reinventing the Filipino values is not a matter of chance. It should

be left to chance. It is a movement, a concerted, deliberate effort to establish

a new order of life. It is also a creative process. Colonization is merely a

temporary detraction.

__________________
8
Fr. Mario Bacilig, Bush Forth, (Makati City: Salesiana Publishers, Inc.,
2000),p.192
 6

Life goes on according to its anima and hidden strength. This study especially

elucidates critical issues underlying ethnicity, religion, historiography,

language and many more. The issue on transnationalization and intellectual

experience is a great leap beyond the boundary of our natural culture. It is

hoped that the leap is not from the frying pan to the fire. Certainly, Filipino

values are our distinct contribution to the many cultures around the globe.9

Carino and Peñalosa reveals that the answer is in our hands. What

we do to preserve Filipino values and not what we say, will determine what

tomorrow will be. We Filipinos talk much but do little. We should change our

ways. Let us train and teach our youth to do their part. For unless we do so

we will continue to be the sick man of Asia. Or maybe even the dying man of

Asia.10

___________________
9
Arnold Molina Azurin, Reinventing the Filipinos, (Diliman, Quezon City,
CSSP Publications, 1995),pp.5-6.
10
Isidro D. Carino and Amor B. Peñalosa, Reviving and Developing Desirable
Values in Filipino Boys and Girls, (Quezon City: Carson Resources and
Management Services, 1995),p.3
 7

Values are things that we consider good and important, and help us

make decision. These justify our actions and behavior.

Here are some suggestions to help us as we grow up:11

1. Let us look at the lives of great men and women. Let us discover their

values, that is the many things they considered most important in life.

Let us learn from them, and be inspired by the example that they gave

us.

2. Let us look at ourselves. Let us be willing to set aside some of our

time for silence and reflection. Only then we can be able to listen to our

hearts and become aware of our own values.

3. Let us not be afraid to live according to our values. In whatever we

say or do, let us act and behave because of the good and beautiful

things that are most precious to us.

___________________
11
Bacilig. Op.cit.,p.20
 Chapter III

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

In this chapter, the details of the method that was used, the way that

the researchers did the research and the data gathering instruments that was

used in the research will be stated.

Research Method

The methods that were used in this study were the library research

method and the descriptive research method.

Subject of the Study

The subject of this study are the Filipinos. They are the subject of this

study because this is about Slowly Deteriorating and Fading of Filipino

Values. Encouraging the Filipino to be aware for the values of the Filipino that

said to be fading out nowadays.

Time Frame of the Research

The researchers started to research during December. The researchers

had a hard time in researching since most of the libraries are closed during

the long period of Christmas vacation.

Data Gathering Instruments

The instruments that were used in this research are by the untiring

support of friends and relatives who lend the researchers the books and

dictionaries. Yellow papers and ball pen were used in writing the research as

a drafts. Computer was used as well to finalize the work.

FINDINGS OF THE STUDY

This chapter presents the findings of the study based on the problems

above-mentioned.

The value upheld by every Filipino individual significantly affect the

current status of our nation. In fact, it has played a major role in the economic,

political, social, and moral aspects of the Filipino people in the nation building.

From the earliest centuries of the Philippines, sets of values accompanied by

traditions and customs were maintained by our forefathers.

The Filipinos are usually caught in the midst of social changes, of

depression and other natural crises. Problems usually encountered by every

Filipino challenge their establishing and thereby pose aspects of life. Despite

of this hazard, they were able to resist on these because of having the traits

of being a true Filipino.12

1. What are common qualities of Filipinos as of today?

A.Close Family Ties

The family is considered the basic unit of our society. It is usually

composed of grandfather, grandmother, parents and children. It maybe

observed that the Filipino family is closely-knit.

___________________
12
J.B. Abecia, The Development of Filipino Community, (Quezon City: GFC
Books), 1987,p.20.
 10

It is an extended clan of blood relatives. The close ties are also

reflected in the frequent family reunion held on such as weddings,

anniversaries, Christmas, New Year, All Saints Day and Town Fiestas.13

However, closeness of family members can be readily seen by the way

parents bring up their children. Even when family members are far from each

other because of work situation or demands or when children are married and

living in other places. We also love to care for our old folks until they die. As

much as possible, we don’t allow them to be cared for by any institution for

the aged.14

B.Strong Belief in the Education of Children

This is a sure mean of success run in every Filipino family.

Traditionally, parents try their best always to spend every centavo of earning

to send their children to school. If parents cannot support schooling, usually

elder sister or brother shoulder the education of the younger ones until

everyone finishing a career. It is a pride of every Filipino to be able to have

their children earn a career.15

_________________
13
Ibid., p.10.
14
Carmen M. Cabato and Gloria Tamisen, Towards Filipino Identity,:
Values Education, (Quezon City: Phoenix Publishing House, Inc.),pp.110-111.
15
Ibid.
11
C.Respectfulness

The children have a great respect fir their parent and elders. They have

been thought to kiss the hands of the elders. This manifest the due respect

we should give to our elders not only for the holiday but for the rest of the

year and the year to come as well.16

Furthermore, Filipinos use “Po” and “Opo” when talking to their elders.

The children are expected to consult their parents about any activity or plan

they wish to undertake.17

D.Hospitality

Filipino hospitality is said to be outstanding. Anytime a visitor come, he

is sure to be offered food or drinks. If the guest stayed overnight, he is made

to feel comfortable as if he were in his own house. Hospitality, on the other

hand, has its good and bad sides. This trait may encourage overdependence

and laziness. The trait may also lead to poverty as a result of lavish spending

for fiestas, wedding and anniversaries. However, it is good if its end is to help

a person in need. Thus, the government may utilize this trait in getting support

for its charitable projects, and promoting, cooperation and brotherhood. 18

___________________
16
Jovita de Guzman, Psychology Of Filipinos, (Metro Manila: Bookmark, Inc.,
1987),p.15.
17
Ibid.
18
Ibid.

12
E.Humility

This trait may be seemed in the way a Filipino speaks with others. A

Filipino does not drag about himself. Sometimes, we mistake humility with

timidity and shyness. Our tendency to depreciate ourselves often a mistake

action of humility.19

F.Courage

The Filipinos are courageous people as attested to by those who

suffered and died for their country. This is a value that should be preserved by

our people. The demand and complexities of modern life can only be met by

people with strong hearts and healthy minds and bodies.20

G.Loyalty to Friends

The Filipinos considered friendship as important to them which means

helping each in times of need. Extending help or doing a good turn to one’s

friend will always be valued and never forgotten. A friend is considered a

member of the family that any help he can give is heartily welcomed.21

___________________
19
Ibid.
20
Ibid.
21
Ibid.,p.11.

13
 H.Honesty

Honesty is the virtue and righteousness in deed and in thought. In a

person, this virtue strengthens him against cheating and lying. It results in

cooperation and trust among neighbors, friends and co-workers. In the

highest officers of the land, “katapatan” is the sole measure of leadership and

public trust.22

I.Delicadeza

Delicadeza is the virtue that determines a person’s sensitivity to what

is right or wrong. A sense of prudence and poverty is implicit in a person with

delicadeza. It also serves as an early warning device in recognizing the traps

of graft and corruption, whether the guise of “pagtanaw ng utang na loob” or

an innocent gift.23

J.Orderliness

Kaayusan in Tagalog terms is the learn like an orderliness. It begins

at home at an early mental discipline instilled on children by their parents. An

order home is an evidence of this virtue on work in the family in the formative

years of life. Kaayusan ripens into the habit of discipline allocation of time and

energy to work and play. It usually results in a citizen with a sincere respect

and adherence for the spirit and the letter of the law.24

___________________
22
Ibid.
23
Ibid.
24
Ibid.

14
K.The Bayanihan Spirit

Filipino people are fond of group work, offering help freely to friends or

neighbors needing a help. A person planting or clearing his fields or moving

his house may call several neighbors for help work done this way is done

gaily and cheerfully and without expectation of payment except for a free

meal.25

L.Godliness

Filipino value denotes the religious character of the people who firmly

believe in the supernatural and in kinds of spirit dwelling in individual person,

place or thing.26

M.Hardworking

Filipinos have the capacity for hard work given proper condition. The

desire to race one’s standard of living and to possess the essential of a

descent for one’s family combined with the right opportunities and incentives

makes the Filipino work very hard. This is manifest most noticeably in

willingness to take risk with jobs abroad and there to work one, two or three

jobs. The result is productivity and entrepreneurship for some and survival

despite poverty.27

___________________
25
Building a People, building a Nation, (Instructural Materials Corp.),p.5.
26
Ibid.
27
Ibid.

15
N.Ability to Survive

Filipinos have an ability to survive which is manifested in our capacity

for endurance despite difficult times and our ability to get by on so very little.

This survival instinct is related to the Filipinos other strengths basic

optimisms, flexibility and adoptability, hard work and deep faith in God. It is

manifested in the millions of Filipinos who bravely live through the harshest

economic and social circumstances.28

O.Joy and Humor

Filipinos have a cheerful and fun loving approach to life and its ups and

downs. We have a pleasant disposition, a sense of humor and a propensity

for happiness that contribute not only to the Filipino charm but to

incommunitability of the Filipino spirit. This sense of joy and humor is

manifested in the Filipino love for social and celebration, in our capacity to

laugh even in the most crying times, and in appear of political satire.29

2. What are some of the traditional Filipino values?

A.Extreme Personalism

Filipinos view the world in terms of personal relationships and the extent

to which one is able to personally related to things and people determine the

recognition of their existence and the value given to them.

___________________
28
Ibid.
29
Ibid.
16
This personalism is manifested in tendency to give personal interpretation to

actions. Because of personalistic world view, Filipinos have difficulty dealing

with all forms of impersonal stimulant. Extreme personalism thus leads to the

graft and corruption evident in the Philippine society.30

B.Lack of Discipline

The Filipinos lack of discipline encompasses several related

characteristics. We have a casual and relax attitude towards time and space

which manifest itself in lack of precision and compulsiveness, in poor time

management, and in procrastination or reward, resulting in the use of

shortcuts, in result in efficient and wasteful work system, violation of rules

leading to more serious and casual work ethic leading to carelessness and

lack of initiative.31

C.Passivity and Lack of Initiative

Filipinos are generally passive and lacking in initiative. One waits to be

what has to be done. There is a strong reliance on others to do things for us.

Filipinos tend to be complaint and there rarely is a sense of urgency about

any problems and even violation of one’s basic rights. In many ways, it can

be said that the Filipinos is too patient and long suffering.

___________________
30
Teodoro A. Agoncillo, History of the Filipino People, (Quezon City: Garotech
Publishing, 1990),p.14.
31
Ibid.
17
Too easily resigned to one’s faith, Filipinos are thus easily oppressed and

exploited.32

D.Colonial Mentality

Filipinos have a colonial mentality which is made up of two dimensions:

(1) lack of patriotism, (2) actual preferences for foreign things. Filipino culture

is characterized by an openness to the outside adopting and incorporating

the foreign elements into our image or ourselves. And yet this image is not

built around a days core of Philippine history and language. The result is a

cultural vagueness and weakness. The Filipino colonial mentality is

manifested in the alienation in the elite from their roots and from the masses

as well as in the basic feeling of national inferiority that makes it difficult for

the Filipino to relate as equal to Westerners.33

E.Kanya-Kanya Syndrome

Filipinos have selfish, self-serving attitude that generates a feeling of

envy and competitiveness towards others. The Kanya-kanya Syndrome is

also evident in the personal ambition and the desire for power and status that

is completely insensitive to the common good.

___________________
32
Ibid.
33
Ibid.,p.15.
 18

Filipino demonstrates also the so-called “crab mentality” using the leveling

instruments of tsismis, intriga and unconstructive criticism to bring others

down.34

F.Ningas-Kugon

Filipinos are guilty of ningas-kugon, which is the starting out project with

full vigor and interest which abruptly die down leaving things unfinished.35

G.Filipino Time Mania

Filipino time is one of the attractive traits of Filipinos. Ironically, we

Filipinos have to accept the fact that are not sincere in keeping our time. We

waste precious in most of our daily activities.36

H.Hiya

Filipino accepts or does something because of hiya, some of us even

get into debts by spending lavishing during Fiestas because of hiya to

visitors.37

___________________
34
Ibid.
35
Ibid.
36
Ibid.
37
ibid.
19
3. What are the factors behind the slowly fading of Filipino values?

Facts in the Deterioration of Filipino Values

A cynic eye view of the Filipino National character has been aired in TV.

We are all parts of the problem and our desperate means. Still, one wonders

whether constantly being reminded of our shortcomings will contribute

constructively to building a national character we can all be proud of.

Traditional Filipino values has been compared with the lofty institutional

tenets that every school child learns to pay his service to against the welfare

of the common tag is set family centeredness. The Filipinos loyalty is not to

his national but to the “padrino” who protects his family.38

Hopeless to say that the erosion of the Filipino values were becoming

waist, Filipino values like:39

1. Wholestic – this is the value that makes Filipino integrate and separate.

2. Regionalism or Region-Oriented – regionalism is a product of Filipino

small-group-centeredness which social critics trace to the Barangay of old.

3. Compassionate – this is the value that makes Filipino compassionate.

4. Delicadeza

5. Personal Integrity

___________________
38
J.B. Abecia, The Development of Filipino Community, (Quezon City: GFC
Books), 1987,p.20.
39
Ibid.
 20

The disregard of the traditional values of delicadeza and personal

integrity is the public servants who could destroy democracy in the country.

The steady erosion of the time-honored principles and nation strong service

that make the government and national strong has been also disregard. The

traditional value of treasuring one’s sacred honor has been cast aside and

replaced by “Armor of Arrogance”. Many of these in public welfare, but their

own selfish and narrow interest or the interest of the family.40

In connection with the slowly fading of Filipino values, it was almost

seven years ago after the EDSA Revolution happened a few Filipinos thought

that the EDSA People Power would change people’s character for the better.

Christian values prevail in the ultimate choice between good and evil are that

selfishness would turn to selfishness and generosity, are Delicadeza, dignity

and honor in all level of human relationship. Now expectation the values of

the people who made the event happened.41

___________________
40
Ibid.,p.21
41
Ibid.
Chapter V
 SUMMARY, CONLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

SUMMARY

This study entitled “SLOWLY DETERIORATING AND FADING OUT

FILIPINO VALUES” is conducted to find out the current plight of Filipino

values.

Specifically, it seeks to answer the following questions:

Are Filipino values really fading out?

1. What are common qualities of Filipinos as of today?

2. What are some of the traditional Filipino values?

3. What are the factors behind the slowly fading out of the Filipino

values?

CONCLUSIONS

The following conclusions were drawn based in the findings of the

study:

1. The Filipino values, exposed at it has been to foreign influences, has

not entirely lost it values, beliefs and traditions we have cherished

for long. Many old-fashioned virtues as mentioned before continue

to be treasured in most Filipino houses. However, it is a fact that

many Filipinos have succumbed to cording foreign influences.

22
 2. Fading of Filipino values as evident in the current happening all over

the country is continuously getting worst. It can be said that the

Filipinos are undergoing change. The major cause of this process of

change is urbanization and the whole complex of factors associated

with the urban life.

3. For most of the institution, the main problem seems to have been

identified and the suggestion is within us in which the solution may

lie. The rest must be left to the wisdom, patience and sacrifice of the

Filipino people. Despite of the deterrent values which keep on going

with us, still, there are much that is fine and admirable in the national

character of the Filipinos people.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Based on the conclusions being drawn, the following

recommendations may be considered:

1. It is strongly suggested that we have to reinvent Filipino values.

Through a proposal systematic training aimed to revive and develop desirable

values using the experimental learning approach there may be hope to save

our country from further bankruptcy of values. It is hoped that the older and

present generation will act together now to ensure that the coming generation

will be properly equipped with the correct value system that will enable them

to assume moral stewardship of the country tomorrow.

23
 2.The researchers hope that readers see themselves in it. From the

strengths and weaknesses mentioned earlier. We hope that all of us will start

eliminating weaknesses and developing strengths, and this start with

analysis, understanding and appreciation of them. We must take good look of

ourselves, objectively with scientific detachment but also emotionally.

3. Also recommended is that amidst of the changes that are seen in

our Filipino values. Filipinos should understand their relation with the society,

Filipinos should prove that they rise above self-interest, that they are capable

of obeying rules for common goods. We must not follow negative

development in our country.

4.We, the researchers believe that Filipinos deserve to move a step

closer on this journey of thousand miles. We must change. And

understanding ourselves is the first step.

5.Lastly, similar studies should also be conducted to further

substantiate the present findings.

BIBLIOGRAPHY
A. Books

Abecia, J.B. The Development Of the Filipino Community. Quezon

City: GFC Books, 1987.

Agoncillo, Teodoro A. History of the Filipino People. Quezon City:

Garotech Publishing, 1990

Azurin, Arnold Molina Reinventing The Filipinos. Diliman Quezon City:

CSSP Publication,1995.

Bacilig, Fr. Mario, Bush Forth. Makati City: Salesiana Publishers, Inc.,

2000

Building a People, Building a Nation. Instructural Materials Corp.

Cabato, Carmen M. and Tamisen, Gloria. “Towards Filipino Identity,”

Values Education. Quezon City: Phoenix Publishing House,

Inc.

Carino, Isidro D. and Peñelosa, Amor B. Reviving and Developing

Desirable Values in Filipino Boys and Girls. Quezon City:

Carson Resources and Management Services, 1995.

De Guzman, Jovita. Psychology of Filipinos. Metro Manila: Bookmark,

Inc., 1987.

B. Dictionary

Random House Webster’s Dictionary. New York Ballantine Books, 2001

In preparation of this research paper the researchers wish to

acknowledge the following for their assistance, untiring support and

cooperation in preparing and finalizing this term paper.

To Ms. Julie Ann Alberto, our teacher for her suggestions, scholarly

advise and encouragement to finish this term paper.

A countless thanks to our parents for their moral and financial support.

And most of all a special thanks to the Almighty God for giving us the

strength and guidance in this undertaking.

S.A.M.

M.I.A.
 TABLEOFCONTENTS

Page

Title Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . i

Acknowledgement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ii

Table of Contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iii

CHAPTER

I. THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2

Statement of the Problem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Significance of the Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

Scope and Limitations of the Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Definition of Terms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

II. REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES

Related Literature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7

III. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

IV. FINDINGS OF THE STUDY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-20

V. SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Conclusions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21-22

Recommendations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22-23

Bibliography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iv
SLOWLY DETERIORATING AND FADING FILIPINO VALUES

____________________________________________

A Term Paper Presented to

Ms. Julie Ann Alberto

Sta. Teresa College

Bauan, Batangas

____________________________________________

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements in

English IV

by:

Niko I. Arcega

Sheila Mae A. Medrano

IV-St. Sebastian