GEN Z’s of today’s era have invested their ideas and takes on issues that have been long occuring, especially here in the Philippines.
Filipinos are known for having a high tendency to be late for meetups, appointments, and events. In fact, a colloquial term, “Filipino Time,” has emerged and become a cultural phenomenon that Generation Z continues to discuss.
In an exclusive interview with republicasia, Zoomers expressed disappointment over the continued use of the term “Filipino Time” as an excuse for tardiness.
Jem Pineda, a 21-year-old BA Broadcasting student, shared her dismay at people still using Filipino Time as an excuse, especially in the 21st century.
“Time is too precious and personally vina-value ko ‘yon para sa sarili ko and para na rin sa ibang tao. Okay lang naman ma-late, pero ‘yung lagi? No na no for me,” Pineda stated.
Another Gen Z, Faith Pascua, a 20-year-old BA Broadcasting student, described her frustration with those who use this excuse.
“Bago naman kasi magkaroon ng plano, pare-parehas naman kayong nag-aaggree sa time so hindi lang naman one-sided desisyon ‘yun and minsan pa nga ‘yung kausap mo pa ‘yung nagsasabi ng oras ng meeting niyo,” Pascua explained.
“So syempre isschedule mo na ‘yung oras mo para ma-meet ‘yung set time niyo tapos pagdating mo dun sa destination is wala pa pala sila or malelate sila,” Pascua added.
Such actions can have several impacts on one’s well-being and overall mood for the day.
Impact of being unpunctual
Tardiness or being unpunctual can result in negative feedback in both professional and personal relationships.
In the professional realm, adhering the Filipino Time habit—often involving arriving later than the designated or scheduled time—can have significant consequences.
Although this practice may be rooted in social traditions, it can eventually lead to missed opportunities and delays in completing tasks.
To further explore the impact of being late, Zoomers shared their feelings about encountering latecomers.
“Nadi-disappoint ako sa tao minsan. Kasi, parang hindi ako worth their time or hindi mo ito priority? At saka, hindi ba ‘yon disrespect sa kapwa mo na naglaan ng time and effort,” Pineda said, describing how the Filipino Time habit can strain relationships.
Pascua explained that sometimes she prefers to avoid meeting people or making plans altogether due to this mentality: “For me, it does not feel like gusto rin nila na makita or makasama ako. And hindi lang ‘yun, it makes me feel na they don’t respect my time as much as respect theirs,”
“There are times na talagang gusto ko na lang i-cut off ‘yung person entirely dahil ang galing nila mag-time management eh,” Pascua said, illustrating how draining waiting can be.
It is crucial to recognize the potential drawbacks of this habit and consider that not everyone is willing to wait or understand the circumstances.
How to manage time effectively?
Many people find it challenging to manage time effectively due to the heavy workload and responsibilities they must shoulder. However, to avoid conflicts and maintain healthy relationships, mutual respect is essential.
Pineda highlighted the importance of self-discipline, noting that it can be successful if one chooses to make it work.
“I can share na one thing that helped and helps me a lot ay ang paggamit ng Google Maps. You can put the scheduled time ng arrival mo and lalabas naman doon kung anong oras ka puwedeng umalis. Then, laan na lang ng additional time. So far, it works really well for me. It’s never too LATE to learn this,” Pineda declared.
Pascua, on the other hand, emphasized the need for both parties to adjust to the situation: “If you know sa sarili mo na late ‘yung kausap mo lagi, ikaw na lang mag-adjust. Magsabi ka na lang ng mas maagang oras kaysa sa schedule talaga para if ever na mauna man sila sa’yo, sila naman yung makaramdam ng nararamdaman mo.”
“And para naman sa mga isinasabuhay ang Filipino time, please respect the person naman na you have plans with. Respect and humility lang sana,” Pascua added.
Dealing with Filipino Time can be draining. While some may find it humorous when people use it as an excuse, in the long run, it can affect relationships and lifestyle.
Acknowledging one’s shortcomings and taking proactive steps to improve should always be a priority to maintain a healthy and balanced life.
With reports from Alexis Caceres
