Dos and Don’ts in the Philippines

Philippines, Filipinos, Filipinas, Pinoy, Pilipinao, Pilipina … Confused?

It seems everybody has a name for the inhabitants of the Philippines, including the Pinoys themselves. But don’t worry. On the first page of this delightful guide to the etiquette, customs and taboos of more than 7,000 islands that is the Philippines, you’ll find the words that you need to use when among the smiling and talkative people of this tropical paradise.

Filipinos are unique as can be and maintain the customs and traditions to prove it. Many still eat with their hands. Their devout Catholicism is imbided with ancient beliefs and superstitions. They pretend to be invisible when passing between you and your friend. They lavish attention on water buffaloes on its special festival day. They are the most bubbly and communicative and therefore caring and friendliest people in Southeast Asia.

To ensure that you, the foreign resident, fleeting visitor or armchair traveller, enjoy your stay in the Philippines, we present a light hearted but practical guide to the Dos & Don’ts of this dynamic country.

– Don’t tell your best friend that he’s got food stuck between his teeth.
– Do slouch in the back of your taxi as you leave the motel after a romantic afternoon.
– Don’t throw water over the guy downstairs singing his heart out.