Parent-Child-Filial piety (respect for parents) was hugely emphasized in Confucius’ teachings because the relationship with our parents is the first one we experience and therefore the root of character and virtue. Parents and elders are held in very high regard in Chinese culture and are to be obeyed no matter what the age of the children.
Because he was exiled by his country and anyone was a liberty to take his life if he returned. Anyone who was caught helping him was going to face consequences.
