Philippines

Filipino etiquette builds respect directly into the language: adding "po" or "opo" when speaking to someone older or in authority is a small habit that signals real deference — dropping it can read as overly familiar even when nothing else about the exchange is impolite.

Philippines

Rules in Philippines

Accept the refreshments at a business meeting

Address people by their title and surname

Avoid direct, blunt confrontation

Build the relationship before the business

Court with gestures and patience

Involve (or at least acknowledge) the family

Manage public affection to match the setting

Eat with your hands at a kamayan feast

Let the eldest or the host eat first

Say "salamat" and linger after the meal

Use the spoon in your right hand, fork in your left

Avoid white or black-and-white gift wrapping

Skip lilies and chrysanthemums, wrap it well

Give money or a gift at a wake (lamay)

Bring food or something practical to a housewarming

Give gifts with both hands, open later

Accept what's offered — don't keep refusing

Greet elders with respect when you arrive and leave

Remove your shoes, and don't wander past where you're invited

Dress modestly and respectfully in public

Give the "mano po" to elders

Use "po" and "opo" to show respect

Smile often — it's the default register

Dress modestly and remove hats at church

Greet locals warmly and avoid confrontations

Pass jeepney fare hand-to-hand, and say "para po" to stop