Quote Originally Posted by Jun aka Pekto View Post
Close family ties is an important Pinoy value. But, it's certainly not unique to the Philippines. Rather, it's more of an Asian trait.

It's also a misnomer to say Westerners don't have close family ties. They may be more independent and live far away from each other which seem to indicate a disconnect. But come Thanksgiving or the Christmas Holidays, I see many of them congregate in homes. We're the same way here. We always come home to relatives in NV during long holidays. But, we try to live far enough apart (from them) to avoid the politics and spats they often have.

As for "utang na loob"..... forget it. When our daughter(s) grow up, they don't owe us anything besides trying to make a better life for themselves. We'll be there for them should they stumble. But, no. They don't owe me and the wife anything. We're the ones who brought them to this world. It's our (the wife and I) burden, not the kids'.

Add: The same goes for those we're supporting in the Philippines. They don't owe anything back to us. All we asked of them is to do their best in their studies and make a better life for themselves.
That is good attitude mr Pekto. Wish it was here. Here pipol make it feel to child they owe them.

Other child ask all from parent like they owe them. They do not even look for job. Even father give them job. They do not go there own destiny like there. Sad.