BUSINESS ETHICS

• Filipino value system


  The collection of values or the structure of values that majority of Filipinos have traditionally kept in their lives as important as: common beliefs, moral principles, ethical standards, etiquette, and cultural and personal values that their society encouraged them to have
• Bahala na


  • Derived from the word Bathala, who was worshipped by the Filipinos during the Pre-Spanish period. This belief in putting life in the hands of God may be a symbol of how devout Filipinos can be. They just leave everything to God, including their problems and their sufferings. They are fatalistic, putting their lives in the hands of fate.
  • Determination and risk-taking. When Filipinos say "bahala na", they are ready to face every difficult situation and are determined to achieve their goals or objectives. When they mention those words, it is like they are getting courage or strength into their system, and they will not surrender.
• Utang na loob


  Gratitude or debt of appreciation. One should not forget to consider the good acts others may have done particularly in times of great need. Many times, this debt of appreciation is violated by others who have served us good. With this system, people are forced to do something in exchange for favors that others did.
• Ningas-cogon


  The eagerness of the Filipinos just at the beginning, but then rapidly lose interest shortly after it begins, or lack of follow-up.
• Padrino system (palakasan/patronage system)

  The system of value in which one gets support, endorsement, or political appointment through family affiliation (nepotism) or friendship (cronyism), as opposed to one's worth. The owner or manager hires friends or relatives regardless of their qualifications. This could cause conflict inside the enterprise and eventually could also be the reason for losing the more qualified employees or workers. This system in the Philippines is the root cause of numerous scandals and corruption.
• Amor propio/self-respect


  A feeling of self-esteem or self-respect that prevents a person from swallowing his or her pride. Sensitivity to personal insult or offending situation is included.
• Mañana habit


  Procrastination or putting off something until another time. This habit has made Filipinos less efficient and less energetic in doing the task.
• Delicadeza


  Acting in a manner which is refined or being delicate in taste. Often, it may mean good decorum or absolute obedience to what is right, legal, or ethical.
• Hiya


  Shame or a sense of social propriety that conforms with established cultural standards. Filipinos feel they ought to live up to agreed moral expectations and if they fail to do so, they add dishonor not just to themselves, but also to their families.
• Pakikisama/pakikipagkapwa-tao

  Loyalty or a shared understanding of the other person's personality and consciousness. It is treating others as equal, and with respect and integrity.
• Family orientation


  • The Filipinos consider their family as an important social structure which they have to look after. They put premium on their family's safety and unity. The practice of nepotism is evident (members of the same family employed in the same enterprise). It is the closeness of the Filipino families that makes them the model of most business organizations.
• Suki system


  A customer-supplier relationship that is built. The supplier would give discounts, good quality products or service, or even "credit line" once the trust is earned.
• Bayanihan/team spirit


  The spirit of unity within a group, or individual cooperation and joint efforts. The adage "no man is an island" is even more true, and even critical in business world - where interactions and the willingness (or unwillingness) to collaborate with others will make or break a business.
• Palabra De Honor


  An individual's unwritten promise to someone to do or not to do something. It needs a sense of truthfulness and honesty in every Filipino. We have to respect our words by upholding our promises, even without any legal document.
• Lakas ng loob


  Courage or the strength of mind or spirit that enables a person to meet challenges, situations, or pain bravely or without fear.
• Pakikipagsapalaran


  The ability of a person to take risks, even if they are prone to a potential loss.
• Frugality/pagtitipid


  Economical management of resources, being careful in spending, and avoiding unnecessary expenses.