To a person who is not familiar or aware of the Philippine culture, understanding Filipinos is like playing a game one has never played before and of which the rules have not been explained very well. A stranger or a foreigner, who has a knowledge of or exposure to the Filipino society's customs, etiquette, and manners, is less likely to experience intense culture shock. Getting to know the Filipinos is easy enough. If you speak English, you will find that most of the Filipinos speak the language; and what's more, they are only too happy to make your acquaintance in English. Even if you don't, the Filipino is so outgoing by nature that making friends out of total strangers or chance acquaintances is simply being in character. The Filipino basic social unit is the family, which contributes to and maintains the Filipino values. The content of the Filipino social unit is the family, groups and community life while the structure is the lineage, marriage descent, neighborhood, peer group and villages. Filipinos are fond of giving and attending parties. Any event can be an excuse for having a small or big party - the baptism of an infant, a birthday, a daughter's debut, a wedding, or an engagement. Even a promotion in a job, passing a government exam, getting one's first paycheck or recovery from illness is enough reason to give a party. When Filipinos hold a party there will be more than enough food for the whole city. They will prepare food like there is no tomorrow. Filipinos love to eat, dance, and take pictures and sing. You have to sing karaoke to be part of the group.

Filipinos are fun loving individuals and their families are often very close. Families include extended family members, non-blood-related godparents, and often also close friends. Traditionally, individualism is less important than family, and bringing shame to one's self reflects on the whole family. Children are supposed to respect their parents and older family members, including older siblings. They are also expected to take care of their parents once parents are too old to work, and for siblings who are in need of help. Most Filipinos who live and work outside the Philippines send money to family member's back in the Philippines. Maintaining smooth relationships is considered important in Filipino culture. Expressing one's view or confronting someone is considered a sign of lack of culture. Filipinos generally do not want to hurt or displease others. They may use a third party to deliver bad news. They also may substitute "maybe" for "no" in order not to offend anyone. When someone does him/her a favor, Filipino feels he has a debt that needs to be repaid with a favor. Fatalism is a common attitude.

A Little tidbit

Congratulations to our members who celebrate their birthday in the month of April:
                1. Edna Bermundo - 6th
                2. Luz Dobson - 6th
                3. Cecille Sepidoza - 9th
                4. Greg Bermundo - 10th
                5. Gloria Sangalang - 12th
                6. Eddie Savard - 14th
                7. Edwin Sepidoza - 21st