Sanctity
In the Philippines, faith and culture have a strong influence on how we think about love and relationships. This is often a mix of religious beliefs and traditional Filipino values.
A quick note: This article explores how faith and culture shape views on love and sex. These are personal topics, and it’s okay to have questions. Talk to someone you trust if you want to understand more. Your beliefs and values are part of your journey.
Traditional Filipino Values
As one of the biggest Catholic populations in the world, many Filipinos have deep religious ties and strongly believe in keeping traditional values in the center of our relationships. These values have been passed down and still influence how many people think and act today.
Hiya
Translating to “a sense of shame,” hiya generally means modesty, courtesy, and self-respect. In the Filipino context, it can also mean preserving purity or virginity, which is deeply valued within society.
Purity
From a Christian and Filipino perspective, purity of mind and heart not only honors God but also strengthens our character and well-being, in the way that it allows us to make good choices, avoid temptation, and live with integrity. That’s why it’s important to remember that sex isn’t just physical, but it’s also something sacred, meant to show real love, commitment, and respect for our partner.
Chastity
Chastity is the quality of being morally pure, relating to either sexual interactions or conduct, behavior, or intention. The concept of kalinisang puri (true love still waits) highlights the virtue of chastity, which, while many cases of unwanted pregnancy and STDs among teens show the decline of this virtue among the youth, is a relevant and effective expression of love.
The Value of Proper Courtship
Society and norms change over time, including how people get to know each other and experience romance. However, some things remain the same.
Traditional Practices
Traditionally, courtship was a very formal and respectful process. Beyond proving himself to the girl, the suitor must also show his value and the strength and authenticity of his affection and devotion for her to her family. A few practices include:
Harana (Serenade)
Singing to the girl, typically outside her window.
Umakyat ng Ligaw (Courting the Family)
Visiting her home and bringing gifts for everyone.
Pamamanhikan (Formal Proposal)
A formal visit asking the girl’s parents for her hand in marriage and their blessings.
Courtship in Modern Dating
Today, with the widespread use of the internet, Filipino dating has mixed with modern culture. Besides in-person interactions, people can now meet and communicate through apps and social media. Though, many core values stay the same. Family is often very involved, with getting parental approval being a major step in a relationship. Likewise, it’s still common for the guy to make the first move.
The Sacred Bond of Marriage
Marriage is more than a romantic or legal union. It is a sacred and lifelong promise made before God, guided by faith and family.
Within this bond, sex is viewed not just as a physical act, but a sacred expression of love and unity, even connected to being open to having children. Following this mindset, premarital sex is often discouraged, since it may greatly affect one’s future, family honor, and emotional well-being.
Faithfulness
Faithfulness goes beyond just being physically exclusive. It means emotional, mental, and spiritual dedication to your spouse. In practical terms, it means sticking together and not giving up on each other, even through tough times.
Family Solidarity
Family is the heart of Filipino society, the core of many lives. Family doesn’t just include your parents and siblings; it involves even close relatives and friends. This strong sense of family makes marriage a union of two families, not just a partnership between two people.
References
https://factsanddetails.com/southeast-asia/Philippines/sub5_6c/entry-3867.html
https://www.crfv-cpu.org/resources/the-power-of-purity
https://www.christianity.com/wiki/christian-terms/what-is-chastity-meaning-and-importance.html
https://docmckee.com/travel/the-ins-and-outs-of-dating-in-the-philippines-a-beginners-guide/
https://barongworld.com/blogs/news/the-rich-tapestry-of-philippine-marriage-culture-traditions-values-and-evolution
https://cpcabrisbane.org/CPCA/IWSSForum.htm