Professional Documents
Culture Documents
first-time visitor to the Philippines, I was greeted all over the city of
Mandaluyong with large banners, bouquets of flowers, orchestrated welcome
bands, traditional food, cultural performances, and even a key to the city
from Mayor Ben Abalos. Why? Simply because I was a teacher. The respect
and value of educators and education is held high, and the standard is met
from all members of the community. When their children accomplish an
academic success, parents display proud banners in their neighborhoods,
letting the community know what their son or daughter has accomplished in
school. Children want to do well and succeed in school to make their loved
ones proud. They are focused and work hard in school not only because they
want to do well, but because it comes with automatic respect and admiration
from the community.
Finally, the Filipino educational system also contributes to student success
and performance. Unlike the United States, where the standards and yearly
performance assessments are up to the discretion of each state, the
Philippines has adopted a centralized approach to education. In other words,
the whole country operates as 1 big public school system. Each city, region,
and community, regardless of its economic and geographical background,
adopts the same model for education. Some may view this as, strength in
unity, and argue that this has positive effects on student performance.
Everyone is on the same page. Everyone knows whats expected of children
academically. Every school has the same values and standards. Therefore,
every child should be on the same page with the expectations for
educational performance.
On the other hand, some may argue that the centralized approach to
education doesnt meet students where they are socially and academically,
and can limit student creativity; thus, having a negative impact on student
performance. From my brief observation in the Philippines, I can say that
despite the differing of opinions with regards to the Filipino educational
system, students still see education as a privilege, and not a right.
In conclusion, I found that the Filipino value of education has a positive
impact on student performance. Students want to succeed. They want to do
well. They see education as an avenue for success. The centralized approach
to education further reinforces their behavioral and academic expectations.