Atheism or Agnosticism in the Philippines?

Question

I consider myself an Agnosticist leaning on Atheism, but I was born Catholic and even went to CCD and stuff. Turned Atheist in the 7th grade. Turned Agnosticist just a month ago. Never told my parents cause I know they'd totally break my balls if I said something like that.

How are Atheism and Agnosticism viewed in the PI? Do they like totally discriminate you or are they pretty open about it like over here in the Bay Area?

I know that my whole family is Catholic, but don't really know about the general public in the PI.

Answer 1

I am an agnostic atheist too and no one among my friends and relatives in US have problem about it. In the Philippines however, I keep it down. I do not talk about it because I know some of my aunts who are non Catholic but in a Christian group would try to convert me and start talking to me like I'm a satanist or something. They immediately equate atheism and agnosticism with satanism which are of course different doctrines/philosophical views. I do not have problem about it with my younger relatives though because they understand that I just have a different conclusion about the universe.

As long as you are a normal looking guy who don't wear anti-Christ symbols and don't disrespect your family/relative's religion and religious customs then you are perfectly fine in the Phils.

Btw, majority of Filipinos are Roman Catholic. Other common religions are Muslims, Iglesia ni Kristo, Baptist, Methodists, Jehovah's Witnesses, Mormon, etc.

Answer 2

I'll pray for you.  Remember we all go through phases when we are young.

Agnostic = I don't know

Atheist = There is no God.

Christian = Saved by God.

Answer 3

What are those but just labels.

I was born & raised a Roman Catholic. I went to Catholic schools & I was born in a very religious clan. But I was pretty much an agnostic all throughout my adolescence & young adult life. We just don't have those labels yet during those times. I became an atheist for awhile. But I did not tell anyone about it at the time.

The Philippines is still very much a religious & a Roman Catholic country, so you can surmise what their perception would be of your own beliefs.

Anyway I am happy to say that since 1999 I have become a real Christian believer. No labels, no sect, no denomination, but I just believe in God, in Christ & in the Bible. Do not worry yourself with what other people will say, but rather think about what would God say to you if there really is a God.