A dialogue on Filipino identity -defining what it means to be Filipino across generations and continents
A conversation on topics of art, heritage, and the future of the Philippines. Aimed to bridge the gap between traditional and contemporary, showing the world that being Filipino is both deeply rooted and forward-thinking.
“Filipino-Stalgia” summarizes the sentiment of longing and connection that many Filipinos experience when reflecting on their cultural identity, especially in the context of the diaspora.
The dialogue aimed to explore what it means to be Filipino across generations and continents, examining how the Filipino identity is preserved, transformed, and celebrated in diverse settings around the world.
Origins of Filipino Migration ✈️
The migration of Filipinos has a rich and complex history. It probably started earlier but we are sure of the late 19th and early 20th centuries when Filipino laborers were recruited to work in Hawaii’s sugar plantations and the agricultural fields of California. After World War II, migration patterns shifted with many Filipinos moving to the United States for better economic opportunities, driven by the promise of the American dream. The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 further facilitated this wave. Additionally, the Philippines has a long tradition of sending workers abroad under government programs like the Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) scheme, former President Ferdinand Marcos institutionalized a policy to encourage emigration to stimulate the economy.
Austria was also one of the first countries to embrace Filipinos. To address the severe Austrian nursing shortage, the Philippine Department of Labor and the City of Vienna negotiated a bilateral agreement in 1973 that facilitated the recruitment of Filipino nurses for Austrian hospitals. With this accomplishment, the first wave of Filipino immigrants to Austria began. Up to 720 Filipino nurses were expected to travel to Austria to work. On July 17, 1974, the first 20 Filipino nurses arrived in Vienna.
Today, millions of Filipinos work across the globe in various sectors, contributing significantly to the Philippine economy through remittances.
Information Gap 👂
The information gap in the context of Filipino migration and diaspora communities refers to the disparity in access to information that impacts these individuals. This can include a lack of awareness about legal rights, health services, and educational opportunities and, help given in host countries. For those born in the host country, not having a community that would help them appreciate the culture of their parents (be it of pure Filipino heritage or mixed) was an issue. Bridging this gap is essential for ensuring that Filipinos can fully participate in their new societies while maintaining ties to their cultural heritage.
What Makes Filipinos, Filipino
Filipino identity is intricately woven from a variety of influences, including indigenous traditions, Spanish colonization, American occupation, and various Asian and Pacific islander interactions. Core aspects include a strong sense of community and family (kapwa and bayanihan), deep religious faith, and rich cultural traditions in art, music, and dance. Filipino values such as hiya (sense of shame), utang na loob (debt of gratitude), and pakikisama (smooth interpersonal relationships) play significant roles in daily life. The Filipino language, regional dialects, and a love for festivities and celebrations further solidify this unique identity.
But how about those born of mixed parentage?
Third-Culture Kids 👫
Third-Culture Kids (TCKs) are children raised in a culture different from their parents’ native culture, often because of their parents’ work abroad. Filipino TCKs grow up navigating between the culture of their host country and their Filipino heritage. They often embody a unique blend of values, traditions, and languages from both cultures. This experience can enrich their worldviews and foster adaptability and empathy, but it can also present challenges, such as identity confusion and a sense of not fully belonging to either culture. TCKs often become bridges between cultures, helping to foster understanding and integration.
Resilience, Will to Succeed, Selflessness 💪
Filipinos are known for their resilience, often referred to as “the Filipino spirit,” which is characterized by the ability to endure hardships and bounce back from adversity. This resilience is closely tied to their will to succeed, driven by a desire to provide for their families and improve their quality of life. Selflessness is evident in the sacrifices made by many Filipinos, especially OFWs, who endure long separations from loved ones to work abroad and send remittances home. This collective sense of duty and support underscores the Filipino value of putting others’ needs, particularly family, before their own.
Importance of Language in Connecting to One’s Roots 🔡
Language is a crucial link to cultural identity and heritage for Filipinos, both in the Philippines and abroad. Filipino (Tagalog) and various regional languages like Cebuano, Ilocano, and Hiligaynon serve as vessels for traditions, stories, and customs passed down through generations. For the diaspora, maintaining the native language helps preserve connections to their roots and reinforces cultural pride. Language education and usage in daily life, as well as in community and religious gatherings, play a significant role in keeping the Filipino culture alive and thriving across the world.
But does not knowing how to speak the Filipino language disqualify one to be a Filipino?
Respect Among Filipinos
Respect, or “paggalang,” is a foundational value in Filipino culture. It is demonstrated in various ways, such as the use of polite language (e.g., “po” and “opo” to show respect to elders), physical gestures like the “mano” (a traditional greeting where younger people take the hand of an elder and place it on their forehead), and the overall emphasis on courteous behavior. Respect extends to family hierarchies, community leaders, and social relationships, fostering a sense of harmony and unity within Filipino society. This deep-seated respect is integral to maintaining social cohesion and honoring cultural traditions.
Mutual Respect: A Two-Way Street Between Elders and Younger People
Why Respect Should Come from Elders
- Role Modeling
– Leading by Example
– Positive Reinforcement - Building Trust and Openness
– Encouraging Communication
– Nurturing Growth - Adaptation and Learning
Why Respect Should Come from Younger People
- Acknowledging Wisdom and Experience
– Valuing Life Experience
– Learning and Mentorship - Maintaining Cultural Traditions
– Strengthening Family Bonds
– Preserving Heritage - Creating a Balanced Community
– Reciprocity in Relationships
– Fostering Responsibility and Care
Mutual Respect
Mutual respect between elders and younger people is essential for fostering understanding, harmony, and cooperation within families and communities. When both generations respect each other, they create a supportive environment that values wisdom, promotes open communication, and strengthens cultural and familial bonds. This reciprocal respect not only enhances individual growth but also contributes to the overall resilience and cohesion of the community.