SS 110

Kerstin Jess T. Taytay

BSAM 1 – A

FILIPINO TRADITIONS

(1)Pagmamano. Respecting elders is a distinctive tradition in Filipino families. This is

typically a way of greeting elders as you visit them in their homes or upon meeting them at a

social gathering. “Pagmamano” is an honoring gesture used as a sign of respect to elders and

as a way of requesting a blessing from them. The person giving the greeting bows towards

the hand of the elder and presses their forehead on the elder’s hand. This gesture is typically

performed with the right hand upon meeting the person. This tradition reflects the high regard

for elders in Filipino society and the importance of familial and community bonds. It is

believed to bring success and protection. Despite the influence of modern trends, this practice

still lives on among traditional Filipino families regardless of social class.

“Pagmamano” is a symbol of the Filipino values of respect for elders, reverence for familial

and societal ties, and the blending of indigenous, Spanish, and modern influences in the

country’s cultural practices. It is a unique gesture that sums up the spirit of the Filipino

people and our rich cultural heritage

(2)Celebrations Are Always with Food. Food is a vital part of the lively Filipino culture, and

we enjoy feasting on every event. Whether it is a birthday, a graduation, a wedding, or any

event that is worth celebrating for. Even the simplest of gatherings will be accompanied by a
feast. The tradition of associating celebrations with food reflects the Filipino values of

community, hospitality, gratitude, and cultural preservation. It is a testament to how food,

beyond its basic function of nourishment, can serve as a vessel for culture, history, and shared

experiences.

(3)Po and Opo. The use of “po” and “opo” is a common Filipino tradition that reflects the

country’s culture of respect for elders and politeness. “Po” is used as a polite way to say

“yes” and its contraction “opo” is used to punctuate or end a sentence. The origin of these

words remains unclear, but they continue to be used by Filipinos to show respect when

talking to elders or someone they respect.

This tradition is deeply ingrained in the Filipino culture and is taught from a young age. They

reflect our country’s values of family, respect, and hospitality. The Filipinos are known for

their warm hospitality and close family ties, which are also unique cultural values. The use of

“po” and “opo” are just some of the many ways Filipinos show respect and kindness to

others.

Being respectful is one of the many ways we Filipinos were taught at a very young age.

Respect is a core value in Filipino culture. Filipinos show respect to their elders, parents,

grandparents, older siblings, relatives, friends, and teachers.

As much as I can remember, I was already taught how to be respectful by using these simple

catchphrases—po and opo, words that end sentences when addressing elders. But later I
learned that it was not just the elders I should be respectful of. We should also respect our

peers and friends. I have been the type of person who speaks politely to strangers. Whether

this is out of my pure nature, or I just wanted to be seen as friendly, I am not so sure myself.