The importance of the Filipino value of " Pakikipagkapwa Tao " (Empathy)

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The Philippines is known for so many things such as its beautiful landscape, white-sand, crystal-clear water beaches, hardworking, kind people, tasty foods, and of course the Filipinos are famous for their long-embraced values which have been passed on from one generation to another. 

One of these values is the " Pakikipag kapwa Tao." It's the virtue of the Filipinos that allows them to mingle, cooperate, empathize, and help with others whether to their fellow Filipinos or foreign nationals. 

In the Philippines, regardless of one's race, gender or religion, Filipinos would treat their visitors with utmost respect and warmth, the values Filipinos are known for. 

This value has become by word of mouth. Anyone who has been to the Philippines could attest to this distinct Filipino value of " Pakikipag kapwa Tao” accorded to their visitors in the country. 

This value refers to the Filipinos’ nature of easily getting along with other people. The " pakikipagkapwa tao'' is synonymous with the Filipinos being friendly, compassionate, respectful, and happy people. And this virtue is manifested by Filipinos in so many ways and in different situations. 

Below are just some of the situations in which Pakikipag kapwa Tao can be applied: 

During crisis 

The "Pakikipagkapwa tao'' trait has been exemplified in numerous instances particularly in times of crisis such as before, during and after a disaster or any social problems. It is during these trying times where the Filipinos are

emotionally down and vulnerable. 

But because of their trait of “ Pakikipagkapwa Tao” they have become resilient and able to overcome hardships and challenges in life. This particular virtue also has helped them strengthen and unite amidst challenges such as the covid-19 pandemic which has affected them financially, mentally, and emotionally. 

Time and again, the Filipinos are proven to be people of compassion. There is this time-tested virtue of the Filipinos to extend a helping hand to others wholeheartedly even if they have nothing left and without expecting something in return. 

After a disaster , whether human-induced or natural, the spirit of pakikipagkapwa tao among themselves is magnified. They would extend a helping hand to those disaster-stricken fellow Filipinos. The help may not necessarily be financial , but it could be food, temporary shelter, or anything that could alleviate and provide temporary relief to their sufferings. 

The " Pakikipagkapwa Tao'' is a Filipino language phrase which connotes different meanings. Its use may depend on one’s point of view and it is applied in different contexts but boils down to cooperating and helping among Filipinos or with other people. The Filipinos’ virtue of " Pakikipagkapwa tao'' is best manifested by them during times of crisis and hardships. 

On a different perspective, " Pakikipag kapwa Tao'' may also refer to getting along with other people particularly with your neighbors or friends. The " Pakikipag kapwa Tao" is also associated and synonymous with " Pakikisama" , another Filipino value that obligates a person to be with other people or with a group of friends.

It's best exemplified in a group of friends in which you should go along with them or to be with the group like going out to have fun with them. Should you refuse their invitation, you would be considered a loner or kill joy just because you don't want to be with them. 

Being empathetic and reaching out to those people in need are the hallmark of Filipinos' caring attitude. The Pakikipagkapwa Tao is a virtue of the Filipinos worth-emulating and preserving. It's a virtue that has helped shape the identity of the Filipinos. 

There's nothing wrong with this Filipino value of " Pakikipagkapwa Tao" so long as you are with good people. In fact, " Pakikipag kapwa Tao" would help strengthen the foundation of your friendship and camaraderie with others. 

The " Pakikipag kapwa Tao" is a Filipino value that has strengthened their personality, promoted and established camaraderie among the Filipinos. The “ Pakikipagkapwa Tao” also has helped shape the identity of Filipinos. 

It's a virtue that endears them to people all over the world. This is just one of the several virtues that all Filipinos should be proud of. 

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