Be prepared to wait

The Filipinos are a very thoughtful and laid back people. These are both things to aspire to, and are part of the reason many Westerners choose to live in the Philippines, but if you’re not the most patient person in the world, then this might be frustrating for you at first.

However, if you stick around, you’ll start to see the wisdom in this custom. If you were to hustle and bustle like a typical New Yorker, for example, you’d be in hospital within a week. So, especially when you’re first over there, be prepared to be very patient indeed. If you are heading to a meeting, for example, take some reading matter or a laptop, don’t keep calling them asking where they are if they are late, as this will give away the fact that you do not in any way understand the culture of the country you are in.

Greetings

First impressions are very important in Filipino culture, so you don’t want to put someone offside when you first meet them. A simple smile, a gentle wave, or a cheery ‘Hi’ or ‘Hello’ is all that’s required. Keep it short, sweet, and friendly, or they may think you are hitting on them. Although some locals will greet you instantly, the majority will wait for you to do the first move.

‘Salamat po’ means ‘thank you’

Filipinos find it particularly impressive and respectful when anyone, particularly a foreigner, says ‘Thank You’ or ‘Salamat po’ for anything, even if it is not necessary.

If you need past, don’t be afraid to say so

Life in the Philippines is a little more laid back than it is in some more industrialised countries. It’s a hot country, and you can’t expect people to rush around like they do in New York or London. It is common for Filipinos to stop in the middle of the street to look at something or talk to a friend, and they expect to be politely alerted when they are in somebody’s way. So don’t assume that they’re going to notice that they’re in your way. All it takes is an ‘excuse me’ or a cleared throat, and you’re through.

Be Thoughtful

A Filipino woman, whether she’s a friend, employee, co-worker, or lover, will greatly appreciate you remembering her birthday, anniversary, or an important promise. Even if it is just a small gesture, the fact that you remembered at all will be taken as a huge compliment.

This is not a trait exclusive to Filipino women, however. If you are meeting a Filipino man for the first time, whether he is an in-law, business associate, or friend, you will be expected to bring a gift, such as a bottle of whisky or a pack of cigars.This should be enough to cheer up even the most grumpy of men, and could make all the difference between being let into their circle and being excluded forever.The word ‘pasulobong’ means ‘gift’ in Filipino, so if your intended recipient doesn’t speak English, this word alone should be able to explain your good intentions