Family Oriented

The Catechism for Filipino Catholics describes the self-identity of Filipinos as family-oriented.The family as the basic unit of Philippine society is very significant to the Filipino. Filipinos are culturally and emotionally attached to their respective families. The Filipino’s interest and loyalty is demanded by his or her family more than any other institution in the larger society. When referring to families we do not just speak of the immediate nuclear family, but our notion of a family is extended to a wider kin group even if our household is nuclear in form. Most members of the same kin group assist one another in times of need, and they participate in joint family activities even if they do not live together in the same household. This characteristic of the Filipino still prevail despite modernization where society is becoming characterized by more impersonal relationships. The modern Filipino family continues to be closely knit and centered on the family. Relationships among extended kin continue to be marked by reciprocal obligations and privileges even across great geographic distances. We also typically try to make our friendships into family-like relationships that are mutually supportive.