Amid Manila’s traffic chaos and daily chores, Filipinos have long justified their chronic lateness with various excuses, giving rise to the cultural phenomenon known as “Filipino time.”
While the origins remain unclear, experts are determined to challenge and reshape the negative perception associated with habitual tardiness.
“Filipino Time” and Filipinos
Rude De Guzman, a senior research specialist at the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), points out the adverse effects of perpetual lateness, not only on personal lives but also on the economy. The financial toll of traffic-induced delays alone costs the nation millions of pesos.
Despite ongoing challenges like the infamous “Carmageddon” in Metro Manila, Aries Balanay of Project WATCH (We Advocate Time Consciousness and Honesty) asserts that external factors should not excuse an individual’s attitude toward time.
Balanay emphasizes the need for a paradigm shift, urging Filipinos to interpret “on time” as arriving at least 20 minutes before the agreed-upon time.
Balanay points to countries like Switzerland, Denmark, Japan, Germany, and the Netherlands, where punctuality is equated with respect and value for others.
These nations consistently rank high in punctuality and boast progressive economies.
The 2018 Social Progress Index places the Philippines at the 81st position, prompting Balanay to emphasize that cultivating honesty, respect, and value begins in schools.
Project WATCH collaborates with the Department of Education to integrate these principles into various subjects, with studies showing a positive correlation between implementation and school improvements.
In light of National Time Consciousness Week, observed annually from January 1 to 7, the DOST and experts view the new year as an opportune moment to break free from old habits and emphasize the irreversible nature of time. Thelma Cinco, officer-in-charge of DOST-PAGASA Office of the Deputy Administrator for Research and Development, calls for a shift in perspective, urging Filipinos to embrace the mantra that “Filipino time is always on time.”
While breaking free from the grip of “Filipino time” is undoubtedly challenging, the lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrate the possibility and importance of positive behavioral changes in the long run. As the nation strives for progress, the call for punctuality and honesty echoes as a crucial aspect of fostering a more productive and respectful society.