Filipino values refer to the key principles and beliefs that are significant to most Filipinos. These values are a mix of consistent beliefs, moral guidelines, ethical standards, manners, and cultural and personal ideals. Historically, these values have shaped how Filipinos live and interact.
As the world changes, especially with the digital age, some of these values are also evolving. For example, the concept of "Hiya," which traditionally means modesty and avoiding shame, is now expanding to include a sense of propriety or appropriate behavior. The core of Filipino values is rooted in "pagkakabuklod-buklod," which emphasizes unity and togetherness in these beliefs.
The Philippines is a linguistically diverse country with over 180 languages. Filipino (based on Tagalog) and English are the official languages, with English being widely spoken across the country. This makes the Philippines an ideal destination for outsourcing, particularly for U.S. businesses.
The strong English proficiency of the workforce ensures effective communication, while the country’s rich linguistic heritage contributes to a flexible and adaptable labor pool. This combination of language skills and cultural compatibility makes the Philippines a top choice for businesses looking to outsource services.
Family first
Filipinos deeply value their families, and this strong sense of family loyalty translates into a dedication to their work. They view their jobs as a way to support their loved ones, driving them to be reliable and committed employees.
Hospitality and warmth
Known for their welcoming nature, Filipinos bring this hospitality into the workplace. They create positive work environments, foster strong team spirit, and are always ready to help colleagues and clients alike.
Hard work and resilience
Filipinos are known for their determination and strong work ethic. They don’t shy away from challenges and are willing to go the extra mile to meet goals, making them dependable and hardworking team members.
Respect and courtesy
Filipinos communicate with politeness and courtesy in their interactions, ensuring smooth and respectful working relationships across all levels.
Adaptability and flexibility
Filipinos are quick to adapt to new situations, technologies, and work environments. Their ability to embrace change and remain flexible makes them valuable in dynamic industries where innovation and quick responses are crucial.
In the Philippines, salaries vary widely, with the average monthly income ranging from 11,300 PHP to 199,000 PHP, and a median of 48,200 PHP. In 2020, the average salary was around 45,000 PHP per month, while the average annual income was about $3,470 (or $289 per month).
For Filipinos working in the U.S., salaries typically range between $19,500 and $63,500 per year. Most fall between $29,500 and $40,500 annually.
Hiring Filipino workers can be cost-effective for U.S. businesses, depending on factors like the cost of living, job type, and exchange rates. Lower labor costs in the Philippines often make outsourcing an appealing option.
The Philippines celebrates major holidays like Christmas, New Year's, and Easter, during which many businesses close. While foreign companies aren't required to observe these holidays, doing so can enhance relationships with Filipino teams.
Recognizing these cultural practices can contribute to smoother operations and better collaboration when outsourcing to the Philippines.
New Year's Day
January 1
Maundy Thursday
1st Thursday of April
Good Friday
1st Friday of April
Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor)
April 9
Eid ul-Fitr
April 10
Labor Day
May 1
Independence Day
June 12
Eid al-Adha
June 17
National Heroes' Day
August 30 or Last Monday of August)
Bonifacio Day
November 30
Christmas Day
December 25
Rizal Day
December 30
Filipinos are known for their strong work ethic, adaptability, and excellent communication skills. When working with an outsourced Filipino team, it's important to understand their cultural values, such as respect for authority and a collaborative spirit.
These qualities, combined with the country's robust outsourcing industry, make Filipino professionals reliable and effective partners for businesses looking to outsource tasks.
Clear project briefs
Make sure your team has a clear understanding of the work by providing detailed project briefs with specific goals, timelines, and deadlines.
Strong communication
Keep communication open and consistent to ensure smooth cooperation and alignment within the team.
Maintain control
Even when outsourcing, stay involved in daily operations to ensure your team stays on track and meets expectations.
Leverage the BPO expertise
The Philippines is a leader in outsourcing, contributing significantly to the economy. Utilize this expertise for your business’s advantage.
Leadership is key
Strong leadership keeps the team motivated and ensures high standards, even in an outsourced setting.