Ace Brian C.

Laraño
BSIT1.1B

Questions:
1. Do you agree that the Philippines is a collectivist society? Give at least two (2)
concrete examples that would illustrate and support your argument.
2. How does our cultural orientation shape/impact our idea of self, especially as a
Filipino? Give at least two (2) concrete examples that would illustrate and support
your opinion.
Answer:
1. I believe Philippines is a collectivist society, why? Collectivism or collectivist
society is a cultural term that usually putting more effort to family or community
than individuals. Philippines can be considered as a collectivist family due to
strong sense of pride towards group or from family.
Example:
 In a barangay, there a league that usually clash between another
barangays (communities) and eventually celebrate their victory by having
a feast or sharing stories to any another people or place.
People that usually pledge to collectivism put more emphasis or effort for the
greater good through numbers. When it comes to families/clans/tribes especially
to religion. Filipinos most likely see themselves in the context of families.
Example:
Filipino based their reputation from their family. They usually are the pillar
of the strength for Filipinos. Every move or everything that they might do
will affect the reputation from the family of person. They usually might be
considered as a shame to the Filipino family if they did something that will
affect the name of the group.
2. When it come from our country, we have varieties of culture. We, Filipinos has
many cultures from each and every region. We have strong sense of family and
community. We grow with different beliefs and values to other people.
Example:
 In western world, when you turn 18 or in legal age. It is required to leave
to parent’s house and should strive to work for their selves. Unlike here in
Philippines, you’re still in the custody of the family even if you turn in your
20’s. You have to strive not just for yourself but also for your family and
they will benefit from your works.
Catholicism greatly affect from most Filipino character. According to some
researches, Philippines considered one of the most religious countries in the
world.
Example:
Ace Brian C. Laraño
BSIT1.1B

 Filipinos tend to go to church every weekday and always follow Christian

beliefs. Religions is the foundation of the values of most Filipino, they
encourage their families or kids to go to church and a way to tighten the
bonds of the families.
In conclusion, We Filipinos tend to be more in group and we are more likely a collectivist
society such as like the word “Kapwa”. Philippines have a diversity and belief in every
culture but we unite for the benefits of religions and family ties.

References:

 Hays, J. (n.d.). FILIPINO CHARACTER AND PERSONALITY: HIYA,

AMOR PROPIO, EMOTIONS AND THE INFLUENCES OF
CATHOLICISM, ASIA AND SPAIN. Retrieved October 15, 2020, from
http://factsanddetails.com/southeast-asia/Philippines/sub5_6c/entry-
3867.html

 Does culture shape our identity? (n.d.). Retrieved October 15, 2020, from
https://www.wya.net/op-ed/does-culture-shape-our-identity/

 Pier. (n.d.). Filipino Culture - Core Concepts. Retrieved October 15, 2020,
from https://culturalatlas.sbs.com.au/filipino-culture/filipino-culture-core-
concepts

 Ilda. (2011, June 05). Are Filipinos individualist, collectivist, or just a bunch
of moochers? Retrieved October 15, 2020, from
https://www.getrealphilippines.com/2011/06/are-filipinos-individualist-
collectivist-or-just-a-bunch-of-moochers/

 Collectivism in the Philippines and Japan. (2013, October 26). Retrieved October
15, 2020, from
https://whenthenailsticksout.wordpress.com/2013/10/24/philippines-japan-
collectivism-and-i/