Filipino, Tagalog in Japan

Introduction / History

Tagalog is the largest ethnic/language group residing in the Philippines, especially in the southern part of Luzon and nearby islands. The regions of Calabarzon and Mimaropa have the greatest concentrations.

They are one of the ancient dwellers of the Philippines. Tagalog culture developed in Taal, Batangas (the heartland of the Tagalog culture). The traditions of this people were passed orally. They developed a trading link with neighboring countries such as China, Japan, etc. Tagalogs have a writing system called baybayin. It uses diacritics to determine its pronunciation (similar to the Devanagari script of India).

During the Spanish colonization of the Philippines, the Tagalog homeland (especially Manila) became the center of colonial activity. During their rapid Christianization, the culture of these people dramatically changed from Asian to Hispanic (a combination of the two).

They eventually revolted against the Spanish colonizers. Along with other ethnic groups, Tagalogs fought against the invading Americans and later, the Japanese.

After gaining their independence, the Tagalog population grew rapidly. A poor economy and political corruption have led to poverty, causing many to migrate to 56 countries for work. One of these countries is Japan. Tagalogs started migrating to Japan for work in the 1980s.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Tagalogs in Japan earn far more than they would had they remained in the Philippines. The more fortunate work in the business, IT, or government sector and send plenty of money home to their families. Surprisingly, the Japanese are more likely to marry a Tagalog than any other nationality. Many Tagalog women have made it as models and actresses in Japan. Tagalog men have succeeded as professional athletes.

Tagalog women are often in the medical field, especially as nurses and caregivers. Their good people skills and patience make them suitable for such jobs as well as jobs in the service sector. She often works for months before returning to the Philippines. If their husbands remain in the Philippines, he often doesn’t take good care of the children. Divorce is common among migrant workers.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Their religion is Christianity, usually Roman Catholicism. They commonly incorporate pre-Christian beliefs into the church. Some believe in traditional healers/herdsmen called "Albularyo" who heal them from their illnesses. Many also believe in mythical c

What Are Their Needs?

The Filipino government tries to help its people obtain jobs in other parts of the world, and this has allowed billions of dollars to come back to the Philippines from overseas workers. However, this needs to be balanced with worker rights; the needs of f

Prayer Points

Pray for the Lord to be their protector.
Pray for Tagalogs to focus their faith and devotion on Jesus Christ, the only savior.
Pray for them to become a major sending base to Muslims.
Pray that soon Tagalog disciples will be making more disciples.

Text Source:   Joshua Project