Kanya-kanya, a Filipino phrase which means “each one for themselves”, captures an important aspect of Filipino culture that mixes individualism with community values. While the Philippines is known for its strong sense of community and the bayanihan spirit—helping one another in times of need—there’s a deeper layer that reflects personal goals and ambitions. In Filipino families, members often feel a strong duty to one another, but they also strive to achieve their own dreams and interests.

The history of the Philippines, marked by colonization and economic struggles, has led many Filipinos to adopt a kanya-kanya attitude as a way to thrive. Many people pursue opportunities abroad as Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), showing how individual efforts can lead to the welfare of their families back home through remittances.

In Filipino families,
members often feel a strong duty to one another,
but they also strive to achieve their own dreams and interests.

The concept of kanya-kanya is also present in everyday life, from striving for promotions at work to managing personal relationships. While community and family values are vital, the desire for personal success sometimes creates challenges. However, these challenges encourage discussions about finding value in oneself while still honoring family expectations. Celebrating personal achievements, like graduations or job promotions, usually becomes a communal event, showing that when one person succeeds, it’s seen as a win for everyone.

In today’s digital age, social media has further strengthened the kanya-kanya culture. Filipinos often share their lives online, showcasing their individual accomplishments, which can inspire both admiration and competition. This blend allows people to express their unique identities while engaging with their communities, making it harder to separate individualism from collectivism. The concept of kanya-kanya is also present in everyday life, from striving for promotions at work to managing personal relationships.

While community and family values are vital, the desire for personal success sometimes creates challenges. However, these challenges encourage discussions about finding value in oneself while still honoring family expectations. Celebrating personal achievements, like graduations or job promotions, usually becomes a communal event, showing that when one person succeeds, it’s seen as a win for everyone.