Traditional Filipino Culture: 10 Values and Customs to Know

Traditional Filipino culture lives in everyday habits as much as in festivals. Here are ten values and customs you'll recognize in Filipino families everywhere.

• Bayanihan: community spirit, named after neighbors who once carried a family's whole house together

• Utang na loob: a debt of gratitude that lasts a lifetime

• Mano po: taking an elder's hand to your forehead as a sign of respect

• Po and opo: words added to show respect when speaking to elders

• Hiya: a sense of shame or propriety that shapes behavior

• Pakikisama: getting along and keeping harmony in a group

• Kapwa: shared identity, seeing yourself in others

• Malasakit: genuine care and concern for others

• Fiesta culture: open doors and full tables on feast days

• Family first: close extended families and caring for elders at home

In the diaspora

Many of these values travel with Filipino families abroad. Bayanihan shows up in community fundraisers and festivals across the US.

Wear the story

Our Bayanihan designs celebrate that spirit. Shop UGAT. UGAT means roots. Know yours.