Carl Lorenz Cervantes

Filipino Psychology Is a Transpersonal Psychology

Journal of Humanistic Psychology March 13, 2025 Carl Lorenz Cervantes

Filipino psychology, or Sikolohiyang Pilipino, is fundamentally transpersonal, drawing concepts from indigenous Filipino experience. Cultural notions of personhood, growth, and healing embedded in language, folklore, and customary behavior promote a holistic view of the self as part of larger consciousness and culture. The concept of kapwa (shared identity) is central, acknowledging the interrelationship of self, other, and the world. Interdisciplinary overlaps with transpersonal psychology are highlighted, including Jaime Bulatao's "Filipino Transpersonal Worldview" and Sikolohiyang Pangrelihiyon (Religious Psychology). Self-actualization is seen as the fullness of kapwa, toward shared kaginhawaan (comfort and stability). This work contributes to a cross-indigenous psychology, adding to the global understanding of human experience.