Why do Pinoys Believe that Adult Children should Support their Parents
In the Philippines, poverty is widespread. Though it should be noted that not all Filipinos are living in squalor, there are many who struggle just to get an education, much more a decent job. There are Filipino parents who can only raise their children by feeding them and giving them basic clothing and shelter. Even more unfortunate is the fact that Filipinos who live in the streets do not have a lot of hope to hold on to in terms of one supporting the other. Education, especially beyond public schooling in the elementary and high school levels, is just a luxury for them instead of the right that it is. There are lower middle class and much poorer parents who struggle but do succeed in sending their children to school up to the end of college.
A Sign of Looking Back
In a Filipino family that does not have a lot of material possessions, much of the collective earnings in the household may be used for education or for simply raising the children. Children are constantly reminded of their parents’ great efforts. They have come to understanding the need for them to give back to the family by supporting their parents. Their parents, when older and can no longer work as hard, will be depending on them. The parents have not been able to save money for their retirement as they use the money for education expenses. Young, newly graduate Filipinos are already feeling the strain of supporting a family even before they themselves get married. Even so, they believe that it is the right thing to do and aim to support the parents they owe their education from. Even those who have not finished college or have gone to school by supporting themselves still believe in supporting their parents.
Filipino Family Values
One of the Filipino values that remain intact is the closeness of family ties. Pinoys believe that they should personally look after their parents. Looking after, in this case, entails providing emotional, financial and physical support during the times of their parents’ old age. Filipinos have a great respect for their ancestors, especially their immediate family – their parents.
Related Questions:
1. Do Filipino children, regardless of economic status, really believe that it is their duty to support their parents?
2. What do you think of the Filipino arrangement where parents send their children to school with the hopes of a return of financial support?
3. Will the setup prevent young Filipinos to start their own families on the right track?