Filipinos are being asked to synchronize their watches with the official Philippine Standard Time (PhST) to highlight the observation of the National Time Consciousness Week (NCTW) from January 4 to 8, 2016. The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is spearheading the celebration, along with with 20 attached agencies under its wings. A statement from the DOST said the NTCW “aims to create a culture of discipline among Filipinos by allowing a shift from the so-called ‘Filipino Time’ attitude to one characterized by punctuality to show respect to the value of time and to other people.” In September 2011, the DOST launched a campaign dubbed “Juan Time” or Filipino Time to promote the use of PhST in achieving a culture of punctuality by having all watches, clocks, and even offices’ bundy clocks synchronized. The DOST recalled that its campaign pushed the enactment of Republic Act 10535, also known as the Philippine Standard Time Act of 2013. President Aquino signed the congressional measure into law on May 15, 2013. R.A. 10535 requires all national and local government offices as well as broadcasting companies to display PhST in their time sources. Source
No more ‘Filipino Time’ That's just one thing in the lack of cultural development that needs changing here. IMO (whoops, nearly drifted into my first rant of 2016) Whenever we have a 'gathering' we are strict in time. Almost everyone we invite really understands where we stand on that and understands that the later they turn up the less food, drink and hospitality is available for them. We'd been very annoyed at the general behaviour prior to our explanations and strict adoption policy. Everyone says they feel much happier knowing exactly whats expected of them. If an event such as fishing or beach picnic is planned for 2pm and nobody turns up by 2pm we just disappear somewhere. Quite funny really. My wife really hates this so called Filipino Time. Lets' see what happens in 2016
I got a few eyebrows raised when I was once asked why I'm always early or on time and replied, "Filipino time is on time"
