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Filipinos do have a unique
relationship with the west and share decidedly a
heritage of many significant ideas and values rooted in
Euro Christian ethics, But their basic traditional
social and cultural characteristics contrast sharply
with those of western world, certainly the US. The
"national character" and sense of identity is thus
complex. And there is a question as to whether or not
they even have a national identity. Some believe, as I
do, their allegiance does not extend past their
province. Some believe it is limited to the extended
family. It is certainly stronger within that group.
Although the Philippines is located geographically in
Asia, "there is a general sense of being neither this
nor that, of sharing something of the Pacific islands,
of being heavily influenced by Spanish and American
cultures, as above. Further examination of the unique
history of the Philippines and of immigration to the
United States serves to illustrate how this country has
been a "Pacific Bridge" between many cultures. The
Chinese were a powerful influence before the US and the
Spanish came, and still are them most powerful force
here, in my opinion. That is where the money is, though
contrary to popular belief, not all Chinese here are
rich. Chinese residents, who do not forsake their
culture, were born and raised here, Chinese have a
strong social and economic influence that is often
either overlooked or underestimated. The focus is on
the more obvious Spanish and American influence, a big
mistake in my opinion.
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