Utang Na Loob. Grace Or A Hindrance?
A closer look at Utang na loob. In an earlier article that we wrote in October, we had a few emails sent to us regarding this specific trait that we filipinos seem to have.
A few emails flat out totally denied that we have that trait, and others were totally accepting and very proud of this character trait. Indeed there is a whole spectrum of responses that we received.
In that case, I would like to convey here my point of view on this non-issue.
While it is true that filipinos have this character trait, it is neither a curse nor a real factor in our nation’s progress. However, when we speak about individual Utang na loob, we see something different.
It is in my opinion, that there are countless of circumstances that are just plain taking advantage of the goodwill of an individual.
Let me paraphrase. You do not owe anyone anything.
Individuals should be willing to help without the thought of renumeration. The fact that individuals help other people in the basis that someday they will be helped themselves is frankly a mafia style of lifestyle. a scratch your back if you scratch mine type of lifestyle.
This type of trait that you feel the need to give back is ok, but not to the extent that you lose something that you’ve worked hard to gain. No doubt, this utang na loob is often taken to be money, but it can be in more cases than this. The fact that an individual’s success prompts the open hand of relatives seems quite rude to me. You worked hard for that money, you really don’t need to give it away no matter what your relatives say. This is just another example of individuals not taking responsibilities for their own lives. Blaming others for their miscues, mishaps, and misfortunes. The fact is, you are in control of your own future and of your own life, do not take advantage of others goodwill.
Utang na loob is a great characteristic of the filipino people, it shows that filipinos are a great and kind race. It shows, that filipinos are always willing to help. But, remember you cannot help others if you cannot help yourself first. For our nation to prosper, each individual must work in improving their own lives, improving their own self, then and only then can they start in making this nation as great as it should be.
Yo! Thanx, it made me proud quite a bit…
Opnion is nice and quite easy to understand.
It gave me more ideas. Thankz.
well, it is true that utang na loob is somewhat a debatable topic. i think filipinos have this trait whether we like it or not. some deny it because utang na loob feels like you’re indebted forever to that person you owe something. i guess it stems from our natural kindness and hospitality. it’s an inborn trait to us filipinos. this is just my opinion though. great article, BTW.
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Quid pro quo is good, the need to give back justly what was given to you. I am 100 percent American, I have visited the Philippines maybe 6-7 times. I think there is twist here, the need to avoid debt or obligation may induce people to be clever and take money without clarity.
I think I can use the power of Utang na loob to stop many Filipinos from trying to be clever. The constant preoccupation with being clever is annoying and creates relationships that do not function, but do not argue.