1

The Philippines is made up of over 7,000 islands, of which approximately 2,000 are
inhabited. The islands are categorized into three main clusters – namely Luzon in the north,
Visayas in the Centre and Mindanao in the south. The island clusters vary in terms of cuisine,
languages and culture. One of the main distinctions is in respect to religion. The population in the
northern islands generally identify as Christian while it is much more common to find those who
identify as Muslim in the southern parts of the Philippines.
Given the diversity of the Philippines, the unifying element of Filipino culture is a complex
matter. A sense of national identity emerged out of the long standing struggle for independence.
In contemporary Philippines, many Filipinos are acutely aware of the colonial history of their
country. For example, José Rizal, a national hero in the struggle for Philippine independence, is a
highly revered and well-known figure whom many Filipinos look up to as a role model of a
virtuous person.

- Recognize and relate Filipino Values, its structures, models, philosophical foundations and
elements.

I. General Concepts of Core Values2

Core values – are the fundamental beliefs of a person or organization. These guiding
principles dictate behavior and can help people understand the difference between right
and wrong. Core values also help companies to demine if they are o the right path and
fulfilling their goals by creating an unwavering guide. There are many examples of core
values in the world, depending upon the concept.

1 https://culturalatlas.sbs.com.au/filipino-culture/filipino-culture-core-concepts
a. 23 Personal Values for Behavior and Traits

The way a person acts and treats others is impacted by the individual’s core values
as examples of character traits.

1) Adventurous
2) Authenticity
3) Commitment
4) Compassion
5) Concern for others
6) Consistency
7) Courage
8) Dependability
9) Enthusiasm
10) Good humor
11) honesty
12) Fearlessness
13) Friendliness
14) Honor
15) Independence
16) Integrity
17) Open-mindedness
18) Optimism
19) Perseverance
20) Pragmatism
21) Positivity
22) Reliability
23) Respect

b. 23 Personal Values About Rights and Causes

Core values also impact which rights and causes tend to matter the most to a person

1) Altruism
 2) Animal rights
3) Charity
4) Civil disobedience
5) Community development
6) Education
7) Environmentalism
8) Equality
9) Fitness
10) Freedom
11) Giving back
12) Historic preservation
13) Human rights
14) Individual liberties
15) Justice
16) Nurturing the next generation
17) Respect for individuals
18) Rule of law
19) Social justice
20) Stand up for the underdog
21) Stewardship
22) Support for the arts
23) Tolerance

c. Examples of Positive Core Values About Life 3

Often, when you hear someone discuss why they fell in love with their other half, they will
mention that they have the same values. In this case, they are often talking about core
values, which are internal beliefs that dictate ho life should be lived and how people should
behave.

 A belief, or lack thereof, in God or in affiliation with a religious/spiritual institution.

 A belief in being a good steward of resources and exercising frugality.
 A belief that family is of fundamental importance.
 A belief in maintaining a healthy work/life balance.
Parents also try to instill these types of positive core values in children in an effort to give
them guiding principles for living a good life.
d. Negative Core Values About Life

Of course, core values aren’t always positive. Some people may be driven by self-interest
or greed, and these are core values, too, if they dictate the way the people live their lives.

3
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 Negative attitudes and core values can also develop when people live in fear or insecurity
and are forced to focus on survival in difficult circumstances.

 A belief that the world is fundamentally brutal place and that only the strong
survive.
 A belief that people are powerless to change their fates or persona situations.
 A belief that you don’t deserve good things or relationship in life.
 A belief that other people are fundamentally untrustworthy and unloving.
 A belief that life is meaningless.

II. Basic Concepts of Values4

a) The term “value”, defined:
1) In sociological usage, values are group conceptions of the relative desirability of
things.
Sometimes 'value' means 'price'. But the sociological concept of value is far broader
than here neither of the objects being compared can be assigned a price.
b) Four other aspects of the sociological concept of value. They are:
1) Values exist at different levels of generality or abstraction;
2) Values tend to be hierarchically arranged;
3) Values are explicit and implicit in varying degrees; and
4) Values often are in conflict with one another.

Filipino Values System 5

The Filipino value system or Filipino values refers to the set of values that a majority of the Filipino
have historically held important in their lives. This Philippine values system includes their own unique
assemblage of consistent ideologies, moral codes, ethical practices, etiquette and cultural and personal
values that are promoted by their society. As with any society though, the values that an individual holds
sacred can differ on the basis of religion, upbringing and other factors.
As a general description, the distinct value system of Filipinos is rooted primarily in personal
alliance systems, especially those based in kinship, obligation, friendship, religion (particularly
Christianity) and commercial relationships.
a) Ten (10) Most Depicted Filipino Traits:
1) Pakikisama
2) Hiya
3) Utang na loob

4 CFLM 1 – Nationalism and Patriotism (Second Semester A.Y. 2019-2020) Compiled by: M.R.E.YSULAT
5
http://www.definition.net>definition>filipino+values
 4) Close family ties
5) Bahala na
6) Bayanihan
7) Amor propio
8) Hospitality
9) Ningas cogon
10) Respect for elders

b) Filipino Core Values

1) Family centeredness
2) Politeness
3) Hospitality
4) Gratitude
5) Shame
6) Flexibility
7) Loyalty
8) Hardwork
9) Resignation (bahala na)

c) Basic Filipino Values6

1) Family Orientation - The basic and most important unit of family life. x x x The Filipino
puts a great emphasis on the value of family and being close to one’s family members.

2) Joy and Humor – This is the ability of Filipinos to find humor in everything. It sheds light
on the optimism and positivity of Filipins in whatever situation they are in so as to remain
determined in going through struggles or challenges. It serves as a coping technique, the
same way a child who has fallen laughs at himself/herself to hide his/her embarrassment. 7

3) Flexibility, adaptability and Creativity – Filipinos often have an aversion to a set of

standardized rules or R. They are known to follow a “natural clock” or organic sense of
time – doing things in the time they feel it right. They are present=oriented which means
that one attends to a task or requirement at the time it is needed and does not worry much
about future engagements. This allow the Filipino to adapt and be flexible in doing the task
at times nt bound to a particular schedule or time-frame. This allows them think on their
feet and be creative in facing whatever challenge or task they have even when it is already
right in front of them.

4) Religious adherence- The Philippines is approximately 85% Christian (mostly Catholic)

and i10% Muslim, with the remaining 5% belonging to other religions including Taoism,
Buddhism, and Dayawism of the highlands.8 The combined percentages of Christian and
Muslim faithful are indicative of the strong or at least nominal faith most Filipinos have
in the existence, agency and power of a creator deity.
With regard to the Catholic majority, it observes numerous Church holidays,
notwithstanding the fewer holidays of obligation compared to the faithful of other
6 http;//Wikipedia.org/wiki/Filipno_values
7 Maggay, Melba, (1993). “Pagbalik-loob”, Moral Recovery and Cultural Affirmatiom
8 “Christianity in the Philippines”(http://.seasite.niu.edu/crossrods/russell/christianity.htm) www.sesite.niu.edu.Retrieved December 4, 2015
 countries. Attendance of Mass is high not only on Sundays but also on national and regional
feat days, and abstention from Communion is almost unheard of. Catholicism also provides
the basis for many citizen’s positions on moral, ethical and everyday issues. Extreme
practices, officially frowned upon by the clergy, take [lace during Holy Week. 9
5) Ability to survive – The Filipinos as a people who had been constantly under the rule of
numerous powerful countries has over time, developed a sense of resourcefulness or the
ability to survive with whatever they have. They have the extraordinary ability to make
something out of almost nothing. IF A Filipino was given just a screwdriver, plastic bags,
and some tape, he would still be able to build a bird tree, especially for the sake of survival,
and provided that he be allowed to hunt for some needed surrounding materials. 10

6) Hard Work and industriousness – With resourcefulness comes the hard work. Filipinos are
very determined and preserving in accomplishing whatever they set their minds to.

Filipinos over the years had proven time and again that they are a people with an
industrious attitude. Sadly, this is seen by other Filipinos being only useful as
domestic helpers, working abroad to help their families in the country. This is also
present in the country. Even with the little support, technological weaknesses and
the country’s seasonal typhoons, the Filipino farmer still strives to earn their daily
meal.11

7) Hospitality- Foreigners who came to visit the Philippines speak of Filipinos going out of
their way to help them when lost, or the heartwarming generosity of the Filipino hosting a
visitor in their poverty-stricken home. Meanwhile, most foreigners who attend Filipino
gatherings abroad ( which are frequently organized for hundreds of reasons) testify to the
warmth and friendliness of Filipinos as they experience that feeling of ”belongingness”
Indeed, the legendary Filipino hospitality is not limited to the Philippines. It is everywhere
wherever there are Filipinos.12

d) Core values of Criminology

1. Transparency
2. Respect
3. Honesty
4. Integrity Advocacy
5. Accountability
6. Commitment

e) Four Key values looking for in peace officer

1. Integrity
2. Impartiality

9 “Will these 10 traditional Holy Week practices surviv?”(https://www.philstar.com/news-feature/20/15/04/03/1440221/will-these-10-traditional-holy-week-

practices-survive). The Philippine Star Retrieved December 4, 2015
10 “Life and Times of the Filipino-American: The Resourcefulness of the Filipino” (http:filipinoamericanpinay.blogspot.com/2012/07/resourcefulness -of-

filipino.html) Life and Times of the Filipino-American, July 10, 2012, Retrieved December 4, 2015.
11 “Asian Journal/the best traits of Filipino-of-Filipinos that we should be proud of (http;/asianjurnalusa.com /the-best-traits-of-filipinos-that-we=should-be proud-

of-p-10881-67.htm) asianjournalus.com.Retrieved December 4, 2015

12 “Global nation Inquirer; What Filipinos can be proud of” (http://globalnation
 3. Public Service
4. Transparency

f) Key skills for police Officer

1. Open-mindedness
2. ResilIence
3. Assertiveness
4. Maturity
5. Able to handle responsibility
6. Able to remain calm in challenging or dangerous situation
7. Good interpersonal skills
8. Communication skills

Philosophical Foundation of Filipino Values13

a) Filipino values are, for the most part, centered at maintaining social harmony, motivated primarily
by the desire to be accepted within a group.14 The main sanction against diverging from these values
are the concepts of "Hiya", roughly translated as 'a sense of shame', and "Amor propio" or 'self-
esteem'. Social approval, acceptance by a group, and belonging to a group are major concerns.
Caring about what others will think, say or do, are strong influences on social behavior among
Filipinos.
According to the anthropologist Leonardo Mercado, the Filipino worldview is basically
'nondualistic'. Based on his linguistic analyses of Filipino value terms like loob (Cebuano buot), he
concludes that Filipinos desire harmony, not only in interpersonal relationships, but also with nature
and religion, while still remaining nondichotomous.
"The Filipino wants to harmonize the object and the subject, while at the same time holding
both as distinct."
Florentino Timbraza, a philosopher. Concludes in his book Pilosopiyang Pilipino (1982), that
Filipino values are based on the significance of the world to man. Life experiences dictate the
philosophy of the Filipino, augmented by other sources like proverbs, folk sayings, folk tales, and
the like.15
b) Philosophical basis of Filipino Values?

The Philosophical bases of Filipinos are: for the most part, centered at maintaining social harmony,
motivated primarily by the desire to be accepted within the group. 16

13 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Filipino_values
14 http://.philisophy-question.com
15
Hallig, Jason B., Communicating Holiness to the Filipinos: Challenges and Needs (http://didache.nts.edu/index.php?
option=com_docman&task=doc_viewandgid=2 7&Itemid),etc.
16 http://philisophy-question.com
Two (2) models of the Filipino value system.
1. Exogenous model or the foreign model described to be a "legal and formal" model. It was
inherited by Filipinos from Western Cultures, particularly from the Spaniards and the
Americans. Example of which is bureaucracy exhibited in the government of the Philippines

2. Indigenous model or the traditional model described as a "traditional and non-formal" model
or guide but is deeply embedded in the subconscious of the Filipinos.

Structures and Elements of Filipino Values

Based on studies, surveys, opinions, anecdotes, and other literatures made by experts and
researchers in relation to Filipino social values or Filipino core values, along with the Filipino character or
Filipino identity of a person or an individual known as the Filipino, the Filipino value system are found to
possess inherent key elements.
One can note how Hiya (propriety/dignity), Pakikisama18 (companionship/esteem), and Utang
na loob(gratitude/solidarity), are merely Surface Values—readily seen and observed values exhibited
and esteemed by many Filipinos. These three values are considered branches from a single origin—the
actual Core Value of the Filipino Personality—Kapwa. It means 'togetherness', and refers to community,
or not doing things alone. Kapwa has two categories, Ibang Tao (other people) and Hindi Ibang Tao (not
other people). The Surface Values spin off of the Core Value through the Pivotal Aspect of Pakikiramdam,
or shared inner perception ("Feeling for another").
Other notable key elements or motivations are optimism about the future, pessimism with regards
to present situations and events, the concern and care for other people, the existence of friendship and
friendliness, the habit of being hospitable, religious nature, respectfulness to self and others, respect for
the female members of society, the fear of God, and abhorrence of acts of cheating and thievery. (emphasis
upplied)

The values of Filipinos specifically upholdsthe following items:

 Solidarity of the family unit

 Security of the Philippine economy
 Orientation to small-groups
 Personalism
 The concepts of "loob" or "kalooban" (meaning "what’s inside the self", the "inner-self", or the
"actual personal feelings of the self").
 Existence and maintenance of smooth interpersonal relationships.
 The sensing of the feelings or needs of others (known as pakikiramdam).
In a larger picture, these values are grouped into general clusters or "macro clusters": namely,

17 https://e.ikipedia.org/wiki/Filipino_values
18 http://tl.wiktionary.org/wiki/pakikisama)(companionship/esteem)
  The relationship cluster
 The social cluster
 The livelihood cluster
 The inwardness cluster
 The optimism cluster

The Five core Filipino Values19

1. Mapagpasalamat
This is based on Filipinos’ aspiration for “Pamumuhay” (Life) and “Pananalig sa Diyos at
Kapwa” (Faith in God and people). Filipinos know how to enjoy life. We have many holidays,
feasts, occasions, and reunions. Filipinos are cheerful and naturally sociable. We wear smiles on
our faces even in depressing situations. This is because we always look at the bright side of life.
We always have a positive outlook because we always find things to be thankful for, even in the
smallest things. We would always say “Salamat sa Diyos” (Thank God) whenever good things
happen because Filipinos, from whatever religion, would attribute life’s blessings to the Higher
Being. We also acknowledge the good deeds of other people towards us and we do our best to
return the favor.
2. Matatag
Being in a country prone to natural disasters, Filipinos have adapted and learned to be
strong in times of need and in hard situations life throws at us. This strength is drawn from our love
for our family and to the higher being we believe in. This is based on Filipino’s aspiration for
“Kaayusan” (Order). In fact, Filipinos’ common expression is “Ayos Na”. When we are able to get
through difficulties, we say “Ayos Na”. We, Filipinos long for “Kaayusan” and we will endure
everything and be strong amidst hardships and challenges until we surpass the obstacles.
3. Masigasig
When Filipinos dream of something, we do everything possible to get it. We do it for our
families and loved ones. This is based on Filipinos’ aspiration for “Kasaganaan” (Abundance) and
“Ginhawa” (Relief). A Filipino aspires for abundance not for himself but for his family. The
Filipino translation for Happy New Year is Masaganang Bagong Taon (Bountiful New Year)
because we equate happiness and celebration with abundance. In Bisaya, “Ginhawa” means breath.
And the smooth flow of breath is the smooth flow of life which we call “Ginhawa”. “Ginhawa”
according to lay theologian Dr. Jose de Mesa is the feeling of well-being in a Filipino.
4. Mapagmalasakit
It is because of our love for the family extended to friends, neighbors and other people that
make Filipinos naturally compassionate. This compassion enables us to help other people without
asking for anything in return. This is based on Filipinos’ aspiration for “Loob at Damdamin” and
“Kapwa” (Other People). “Loob” is the seat of Filipinos’ dignity. The personhood of Filipino is
manifested in his “kalooban”. Filipinos tunein each other’s “kalooban” by checking on each other’s
condition and chatting about each other’s lives. Due to our familistic culture, Filipinos use “kapwa”

19 CFLM 1 – Nationalism and Patriotism (Second Semester A.Y. 2019-2020) Compiled by: M.R.E.YSULAT
 to refer not just to a stranger but to a relative, a next-door neighbor, a distant relative or a friend.
Our “Mapagmalasakit” trait makes it easy for us to champion the Bayanihan spirit – to unite and
help each other during calamities and celebrate together during special occasions.
5. Magalang
The use of po, opo, and pagmamano (kissing of the hand) are distinct Filipino ways of
respect. We say these words and use this gesture to show our respect and love for the elderly. The
Filipinos’ respect is not just limited to the elderly but also to other people’s properties, emotions,
and ideas. We are polite people. Our language itself is also respectful because it does not have any
gender bias. Examples would be the words kapatid (brother / sister) or asawa (husband / wife) or
biyenan (father-in-law / mother-in-law) or anak (son / daughter) which do not manifest differences
in gender. These words are uniquely Filipino definitely respectful of the sexes. Our respect for other
individuals is embedded in our culture and in our language. This is based on our aspiration for
“Lakas ng Loob” or “Kagandahang Loob”.

The PNP mission lofty and noble but demanding and difficult can be pursued only by an organization firmly
grounded on core values and a clear philosophy. That philosophy is framed by “service, honor and justice”
and the PNP core values which are “makadiyos, makabayan, makatao and makakilasan”. 21
a) The Philippine National Police Core Values (Section 1, Chapter II)
The police service is a noble profession which demands from its member’s specialized knowledge
and skills, as well as high standard of ethics and morality. Hence, the members of the Philippine
National Police must adhere to and internalize the enduring core values of love of God, respect
for authority, selfless love and service for people, sanctity of marriage and family life,
responsible dominion and stewardship over material things, and truthfulness.
b) The Police Officer’s Creed (Section 2, Chapter II)
2.1 I believe in God, the Supreme Being, a Great Provider, and the Creator of all men and
everything dear to me. In return, I can do no less than love Him above all, by obeying His
word, seeking His guidance in the performance of my sworn duties, and honoring Him at
all times.
2.2 I believe that respect for authority is a duty. I respect and uphold the Constitution, the
laws of land and the applicable rules and regulations. I recognize the legitimacy and
authority of the leadership; and obey legal orders of my superior officers.
2.3 I believe in selfless love and service to people. Towards this end, I commit myself to the
service of my fellowmen over and above my personal interest.
2.4 I believe in the sanctity of marriage and family life. I shall set the example of decency
and morality and shall have high regard for family life and value of marital fidelity.
2.5 I believe in the responsible dominion and stewardship over material things. I shall
inhibit myself from extravagance and ostentatious display of material things. I shall respect
private and public properties and prevent others from destroying them. I shall help protect
the environment and conserve nature to maintain ecological balance.
2.6 I believe in the wisdom of truthfulness. I must be trustworthy and shall uphold the truth
at all times.

20 Philippine National Police Manual (Ethical Doctrine Manual, PNPM 0-08-95 DHRDD
21 http://pnp.gov.ph
c) Standard of Police Professionalism (Section 1, Chapter III)

PNP members shall perform their duties with integrity, intelligence and competence in the
application of specialized skills and technical knowledge and expertise.

g) Police Professional Conduct (Section 2, Chapter III)

2.1 Commitment to Democracy

2.2 Commitment to Public Interest
2.3 Non-Partisanship
2.4 Physical Fitness and Health
2.5 Secrecy Discipline
2.6 Social Awareness
2.7 Non-Solicitaion of Patronage
2.8 Proper Care and Use of Public Property
2.9 Respect for Human Rghts
2.10 Devotion to Duty
2.11 Conservation of Natura Resources
2.12 Discipline
2.13 Loyalty
2.14 Obedience to Superiority
2.15 Command Responsibility

h) The Ethical Standards (Section 3, Chapter III)

Ethical standards shall refer to established and generally accepted moral values. Ethical acts to be
observed are the following:

3.1 Morality
3.2 Judicious Use of Authority
3.3 Integrity
3.4 Justice
3.5 Humility
3.6 Orderliness
3.7 Perseverance