Etiquette

Filipinos tend to be casual and fun-loving, but also devoutly Catholic, and Asian values such as not losing face and protecting family honor are strong. Men and women shake hands with everyone present at any gathering, both on arrival and departure. Handshakes should be limp, not firm. Staring is considered rude. Never curl your index finger back and forth to beckon someone—this is a big insult. Instead, extend your arm, palm down, moving your fingers in scratching motion. Filipinos are relaxed about time and are usually late for appointments. Like many in Asia, Filipinos do not like to disappoint, and find it difficult to say “no”. Ambiguous or indirect answers are intended not to deceive, but to please. In restaurants, leaving a small amount of food on your plate shows you have had enough.