The Filipino Values of Generosity: Pakimkím as a Tradition

"Magbigáy tayo ng pakimkím!" (Let us give him/her pakimkím!)

If you have ever visited a Filipino newborn or have attended baptism, you have likely heard this expression.

Pakimkím–the cash gift personally handed to a baby or newly baptized child—is a cherished tradition that embodies the Filipino spirit of generosity. But why do we give money to babies who do not even understand its value? Let’s explore the beauty and meaning behind this heartwarming practice.

Etymology

The word pakimkím comes from the root kimkím, which means "to hold dear" or "to keep." The prefix pa may be interpreted as "let" or "allow" or "towards".

Pakimkím (noun: to let him/her take the money)

Pakimkím (adjective/adverb: towards giving money)

Example Sentences:

1. Nagpakimkím akó sa pamangkín ko ng sampúng dolyar. (I gave $10 as pakimkím to my niece/nephew.)
2. Ilalagáy ko ang pakimkím ko sa isáng puláng sobre at sakâ ko itó iaabót sa bagong binyág na batà. (I will place my pakimkím in a red envelop and then I will hand it to the newly baptized child.)
3. Ibinigáy niyá sa inaanák niyá ang isáng malutóng na limáng daáng pisong papel bilang pakimkím sa Araw ng Paskó. (He/she gave his/her godchild a crisp 500 peso bill as pakimkím for Christmas Day.)
4. Pinakimkimán ko ng halagáng isáng daáng piso ang anák ng kapit-bahay ko . (I gifted my neighbor's child worth 100 pesos.)

But the Children Have No Concept of Money—Why Pakimkím Still Works?

You might wonder: Why give money to a baby? The answer lies in the intention. Pakimkím is not about the child’s understanding of money. It is about the giver’s wish to contribute to their future. It is a way to say, "I believe in you, and I want to be part of your journey."

This tradition reflects the value of generosity. The idea of sharing something precious to a child also means sending blessings and well wishes as they grow. Unlike regular gifts, pakimkím is often given discreetly, tucked into an envelope or slipped into a tiny hand, symbolizing love and hope for the child’s future.

For Filipinos, pakimkím also means helping the parents ease their financial worries. A cash gift is a way of showing how much they care for the child’s well-being, whether for education, emergencies, or simply as a token of love. It’s a gesture that speaks volumes, even if the child is too young to grasp its meaning.

How Filipino Parents Deal with Their Child’s Pakimkim

Parents often handle pakimkím with care and purpose:

• Saving for the Future: Many parents deposit the money in a bank account or keep it in a safe place, ensuring it grows with the child.
• Teaching Values: As the child grows older, parents use pakimkím to teach financial responsibility and the importance of gratitude.
• Celebrating Milestones: Some parents use the funds for special occasions, like birthdays or school needs, turning the gift into a lasting blessing.

The Effect of Sharing Your Blessings with Children

Pakimkím is more than just money—it’s a ripple effect of kindness:

• Strengthens Bonds: It fosters a sense of community, as family and friends come together to celebrate the child’s life.
• Creates Memories: The act of giving pakimkím becomes a cherished memory, reminding the child of the love surrounding them.
• Encourages Generosity: Children who receive pakimkím often grow up understanding the joy of giving, continuing the cycle of blessings.

Share Your Blessings this Christmas!

Did you like Guro Albine's works? Even if Albine is not a child, you can still share the spirit of pakimkím! Your gift is a way to acknowledge her hard work and creativity in teaching Tagalog to learners worldwide. By supporting her, you help reach more students and keep the Filipino language and culture alive.

Ready to give? Click here to send your pakimkím and be part of this beautiful tradition!

Conclusion

Pakimkím is a testament to the Filipino heart... generous, hopeful, helpful, and full of love. It is a tradition that transcends age, reminding us that blessings are meant to be shared. This Christmas, let’s keep the spirit of pakimkím alive, whether for a child or someone who inspires us.

How about you? Do you have a pakimkím story to share? Tell us in the comments! 💛🎄