Importance of the common good, cohesion, family and solidarity in the Philippines

1. common good and solidarity

The Common good and the Solidarity are very important in the Philippines. Particularly in times of crisis - such as after natural disasters or in social emergencies - there is a strong awareness of community action and mutual support. Solidarity is seen as a central virtue that is practised not only in the family environment, but also in the neighborhood and the wider social environment^1.

The principle of "Bayanihan"

• Bayanihan is an ancient Filipino concept and stands for Active neighborly helpcooperation and a sense of community.
• The word is derived from "bayan", which means "community" or "nation".
• Bayanihan originally describes the image of an entire village coming together to carry a family's house to a new location - a symbol of collective help without expecting anything in return^2.
• Today, Bayanihan stands for the spirit of cooperation that is activated in the event of natural disasters, relocations or other emergencies. Help is provided spontaneously, selflessly and collectively - be it through material support, labor or emotional support^1^3.
• This principle is deeply rooted in society's self-image and is seen as essential for the survival and resilience of the community.

2. cohesion and family

The Family is the central social structure in the Philippines. It forms the foundation of society and is the most important support for most Filipinos in everyday life and in crisis situations.

• The Filipino family often spans several generations and also includes distant relatives and close friends^4.
• Family cohesion means that the members support and respect each other and assume joint responsibility.
• The family is the most important social network, especially in difficult economic times or in the event of illness or unemployment.
• Respect for older family members and their support are culturally ingrained^5.
• The family also plays a central role in the world of work and in politics, which is reflected in the dominance of family dynasties, among other things^6.

3. community and neighborhood help

• In addition to the family, the Neighborhood an important role. The willingness to help neighbors and acquaintances is high and is taken for granted.
• The principle of Bayanihan is also practiced in modern contexts, for example in community projects, collective protests or reconstruction after disasters^1^3.
• Community festivals, religious celebrations and local initiatives strengthen the feeling of togetherness and promote social cohesion^5.

4. importance for society

• Common good, cohesion, family and solidarity are pillars of Philippine society and shape the way people see themselves.
• They serve as social security mechanisms in a country where state support is often inadequate.
• These values promote resilience, mutual trust and the ability to overcome crises together.

Conclusion

The common good, cohesion, family and solidarity are deeply rooted values in the Philippines. They shape everyday life, strengthen the community and are key resources for overcoming challenges - from natural disasters to social problems. The principle of bayanihan is symbolic of the special spirit of Filipino society, in which mutual aid and collective action are taken for granted^1^3.

Supplementary assessment from a Gradido perspective

The deeply rooted striving for the common good, the self-evident nature of solidarity and the principle of Bayanihan are impressive sources of strength at the heart of Filipino culture. They are - especially in the face of inadequate state security systems - an elixir of life, a protective shield and a vision at the same time.

Additional thoughts from Gradido's perspective:

• Bayanihan as a lived gradido principle: What the word Bayanihan expresses - a community that stands up for each other without expecting anything in return - is deeply related to the core values of Gradido: voluntarism, mutual support and the celebration of every contribution to the common good, no matter how small. It is not just about material help, but also about emotional presence, togetherness and shared hope.
• Strong families - strong togetherness: The family as an "extended community" provides protection, identity and the space to grow together through difficulties. It is the archetype of a solidary society that can radiate into other social areas like a living example.
• Community resilience: In a world in which state systems often fail, a strong sense of community creates a resilience that defies countless disasters. This potential must be made visible, appreciated and strengthened - also with Gradido.
• Neighborhood as a nucleus for change: Where solidarity is lived, innovative projects and social innovation can grow - from community reconstruction after typhoons to support for marginalized neighbors or educational projects.

Opportunities for Gradido: Gradido can build on the deep foundation of Bayanihan, community spirit and family cohesion - cultivating appreciation, participation and gratitude, and thus enabling true prosperity for all. The Philippines already carries this seed for a harmonious future of solidarity in its heart.