Punctuality: Forgetting the “Filipino Time”

Punctuality shows that you are responsible, trustworthy and can follow directions. Punctuality isn’t just an order that the Army requires, but also a good personal trait that is a reflection of a person’s character. It shows that you have personal integrity and self-discipline. While some of us are occasionally late due to circumstances beyond our control, repeated tardiness shows a lack of respect for other people and their time.

(Photo credits: venezuelaexperience.blogspot.com)

If you don’t use your time wisely, you can never get it back. It is a very special resource which you cannot store or save for later. Promptness is not only a duty, but is also a part of good manners; it is favorable to fortune, reputation, influence, and usefulness. Lack of punctuality is a theft of someone else’s time and a complete lack of respect for others.

While researching these later-than-late tendencies, I have learned about 2 possible origins and causes of the so-called “Filipino Time”.

1. The roots of “Filipino Time” transcend hundreds of years and the term was coined to mean Filipino Indios Time. During the Spanish colonization period, whenever there were social events and parties, there was a need to distinguish time between the Seniors & Senoritas and the Filipino Indios (or Second Citizen) time.

During the events hosted by the Spaniards where the Spanish mestizos would all have been properly seated, the late arrival would allow the Filipino guests to humbly say they had already eaten. They would then quietly socialize and make their own connections on the sides of the party. They would provide applause and dance as directed by party organizers and they were also often used as after dinner entertainers to their colonizers.

2. As we all know, the Spaniards wanted to be superior to the Filipinos and in everything. They wanted to be served, adored, and given all the attention. On occasions, they wanted everyone to notice their arrival and the importance of their presence. Arriving late was of importance to them.

As this became evident through time, it became tradition and culture. Let us not forget that we were colonized by the Spaniards for 300 years.

Moreover, whatever may be the true roots between the two stories of “Filipino Time”, it all boils down that it all started during the colonization of the Spaniards.

Whoever created the term “Filipino Time” would today probably realize a blunt contrast from its original use. While it originally described the Filipino’s inclination for arriving 15 to 30 minutes later than scheduled, it has become a notorious habit which contributes significantly to this country’s overall lost productivity.

Forgetting the term “Filipino Time” isn’t simple since it was well dispersed for hundreds of years now. But then let us be reminded that punctuality is important for several reasons:

1. It shows respect and consideration for others

2. It shows that you are disciplined and dependable.

3. It gives a good impression.

4. It makes a less stressful life.

Never will it be late to change what has been a “habit”. As the quote says “If you don’t have time to do it right, when will you have time to do it over?” -John Wooden