Politics of Kinship

Concepts of Power in Filipino

Kinship Politics
Issues Concerning the Politics of
Kinship
Key to Remember
 A political dynasty is the concentration, consolidation, or continuation of
public office and political power by persons related to each other.
 Alliance is a relationship between people, groups, or states that have
joined for mutual benefit or to achieve some common purpose, regardless
if explicit agreement has been worked out amongst them.
 The padrino system is the practice, among those with power or influence,
of favoring relatives or friends.
 Utang na loob is a way of reciprocity of debt of gratitude to others
within the family circle or primary group.
 Hiya is the inability to say "no" to offers for the fear of what others
will think, say, and do.
 Pakikisama is characterized by togetherness and allegiance to your
group with a concern for what others feel.
 Palakasan is a system wherein those in power compete to obtain
special privileges and exemptions from regulations by bending the
rules of law for their kinship group.
 common purpose, regardless if explicit agreement has been worked
out amongst them.
 The padrino system is the practice, among those with power or
influence, of favoring relatives or friends.