10 Cultural Faux Pas to Avoid While Living in Philippines

Moving to a new country can be an exciting adventure, but it also comes with the challenge of adapting to a new culture. The Philippines, with its rich history and diverse cultural landscape, is no exception. As an expat, it's important to be aware of local customs and traditions to avoid making cultural faux pas. Here are 10 tips to help you navigate the cultural nuances of living in the Philippines.

1. Understand the Importance of 'Hiya'

'Hiya' is a Filipino concept that roughly translates to 'shame' or 'embarrassment.' It's important to avoid causing someone to lose face or feel embarrassed in public. For example, criticizing someone in front of others or rejecting an invitation without a good reason can cause 'hiya.' Always strive to be polite and considerate to maintain harmony in your interactions.

2. Respect the Seniority and Elders

Filipinos hold great respect for their elders and those in senior positions. When meeting someone older or in a higher social status, it's customary to use titles such as 'po' and 'opo' as signs of respect. Additionally, the traditional 'mano po' gesture, where you take an elder's hand and bring it to your forehead, is a sign of reverence.

3. Be Mindful of Religious Sensitivities

The Philippines is predominantly Catholic, and religious events and traditions are taken seriously. Be respectful of religious practices, such as attending Mass or participating in fiestas. Avoid scheduling important events on major religious holidays, and dress modestly when visiting churches.

4. Understand Filipino Time

'Filipino time' refers to the relaxed approach to punctuality. While it's not an excuse to be late for business meetings, social gatherings often start later than the scheduled time. It's a good idea to confirm the expected arrival time with your host to avoid misunderstandings.

5. Learn the Art of Pakikisama

'Pakikisama' is the Filipino concept of smooth interpersonal relationships. It involves being agreeable and going along with the group to avoid conflict. For example, when invited to a social event, it's polite to attend, even if only for a short while, to show your willingness to be part of the community.

6. Be Cautious with Humor and Sarcasm

Humor can be a cultural minefield. What's funny in one culture may be offensive in another. Filipinos enjoy humor, but sarcasm and jokes at someone else's expense can be misunderstood. It's best to keep humor light and avoid sarcasm until you're more familiar with the local communication style.

7. Avoid Discussing Sensitive Topics

Steer clear of sensitive topics such as politics, religion, and contentious historical issues. The Philippines has a complex history, and discussions on these subjects can quickly become heated. It's best to listen more and speak less until you have a deeper understanding of the local perspectives.

8. Be Aware of Non-Verbal Communication

Non-verbal cues are significant in Filipino communication. A smile can mean many things, from happiness to discomfort. Filipinos may also communicate with their eyes or lips, such as pointing with their lips instead of their fingers. Observing and mimicking these subtle cues can help you fit in better.

9. Show Appreciation for Filipino Hospitality

Filipinos are known for their hospitality. If you're invited to someone's home, it's polite to bring a small gift, and always compliment the host on their home and food. Showing gratitude for their generosity will endear you to your hosts and the community.

10. Learn Basic Filipino Phrases

While English is widely spoken in the Philippines, learning a few basic phrases in Filipino can go a long way in showing respect for the local culture. Simple greetings, thank-yous, and pleasantries can open doors and help build rapport with the locals.

We hope these tips will help you navigate the cultural landscape of the Philippines with ease. Remember, the key to avoiding cultural faux pas is to observe, listen, and show respect for local customs and traditions. Share your experiences and seek advice on Expat Exchange's Philippines forum to learn more from fellow expats.

Expats Confess Their Cultural Faux Pas in Philippines

"1. I had my "what the crap am I doing in this country?!" moment in the middle of a small mall in a rural province, including full-on sobs. That was an interesting moment of my life. *ahem* 2. I have gotten in trouble over food before. I *hate* fish and seafood, and in a country where the people both eat a lot of those foods AND like to feed other people, I know I have caused offense by refusing to try certain dishes. At this point, I claim it's an allergy and people aren't offended when I say no. If you do try something, never, NEVER insult it or insinuate that you don't like it. Even if it is cake with cheese on top. 3. Once, I got so out-of-my-mind frustrated with an employee in a store that I started yelling at him. I very, very rarely ever get to the point of yelling. It's happened maybe twice before this story. But it was a very frustrating situation, and getting that point would have been understood in the US. Here, if you get to that point, you can instantly see that the person you are yelling at has lost all respect for you. You are acting like a child and you've given them permission to completely ignore you at that point. The more frustrated you are, the more polite you need to get if you expect to get anything done. 4. All of that said, the most embarrassing series of events I ever witnessed was when we went away with 3 other American couples for a weekend. Two of the other ladies decided they didn't like the music playing in the seaside restaurant where we were having dinner, so they went over and plugged in an ipod to the sound system and just took it over. The staff didn't know what to do, so they just let them do it, but the quality of the service we received from that moment forth was awful. Later, we went on a boat ride over the ocean and up a river a little ways to see the stars and some fireflies and the whole time, these people were filling the beautiful night with loud insults about the Philippines and jokes about poop like they were 12 year-olds. I don't know what they were thinking. If your behavior would brand you as a self-centered moron in your home country, then the fact that you act that way in a foreign country and think it's ok because you are paying the people around you or you assume they can't understand what you are saying makes you a complete and total ingrate. Don't do those things," commented an expat living in Alabang.

"One thing never ever mentioned is the Mal de Ojo supersition that YOU, as a stranger or a visitor, unsuspectingly placed a hex or evil eye to mainly a child or even an adult. As having been raised in tbe West, it is so easy to praise or coochie coo a child you meet, but do not automatically touch/pat the head/hug/even pay too much attention, etc unless the accompanying person offers the child or self for you to do so. If not, if that child or adult get sick soon after, it will be attributed to the evil eye placed on the subject, albeit unknowingly. I've had people calling me to stop by and put my saliva on the tummy or forehead of the afflicted person. I don't come across this from Westernized Filipinos but I've heard from others it may even be a superstition that can be heard from affluent people from MetroManila," said an expat in Philippines.

"It is important to respect local customs and culture when visiting the Philippines. As such, avoid making any negative comments about the culture, customs, or religious beliefs of the Filipino people. Additionally, be mindful when shaking hands when meeting someone, as the handshake may be accompanied by a light bow, a sign of respect. It is also critical to dress is a respectful manner, particularly when visiting religious sites; cover your shoulders and legs, and refrain from wearing any clothing with offensive slogans or images. Furthermore, use your right hand when giving or receiving items from local people; using your left hand is considered impolite. Finally, avoid discussing sensitive political topics with strangers, as such conversations can lead to misunderstandings," remarked one expat who made the move to Philippines.