Philippines Etiquette

Hi,
Today I thought I would tell you a little bit about the meeting and gift giving etiquettes for the Philippines! Below are some tips to help you understand these etiquettes, whether you are travelling in the country for leisure or a business trip, or even if you know someone that has a background of filipino, it is always respectful to know a little bit about how they act and what they expect from a person!
Meeting Etiquette

• Initial greetings are formal and follow a set protocol of greeting the eldest or most important person first.

• A handshake, with a welcoming smile, is the standard greeting.

• Close female friends may hug and kiss when they meet.

• Filipinos are outgoing people who don’t consider it rude to ask personal questions. Prepare to be pleasantly interrogated by everyone you meet.

Gift Giving Etiquette

• If you are invited to a Filipino home for dinner bring sweets or flowers to the hosts.

• If you give flowers, avoid chrysanthemums and white lilies.

• You may send a fruit basket after the event as a thank you but not before or at the event, as it could be interpreted as meaning you do not think that the host will provide sufficient hospitality.

• Wrap gifts elegantly as presentation is important. There are no colour restrictions as to wrapping paper.

• Gifts are not opened when received.

Text Source: http://www.commisceo-global.com/country-guides/phillippines-guide 

Image Source: http://efilipinowomen.com/category/the-philippines/page/7/

I hope these tips can help you and give you a better insight into behavioural aspects of this culture. 

No need for nerves, you've got it all covered now.. More on etiquettes next week!

Love, 
Exploring Asia Team x
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