Navigate
the Philippines with confidence using these essential do’s and
don’ts. Learn local etiquette, safety tips, and cultural insights
to travel respectfully and enjoy authentic Filipino hospitality
across the islands.
• Greet warmly with “Hello po” or “Magandang araw.” Using po shows respect, especially toward elders.
• Smile often. Friendliness is central to Filipino culture and opens every interaction.
• Show respect to elders. Gestures like mano po are appreciated when appropriate.
• Dress modestly in churches and rural areas. Conservative dress is expected in religious and provincial settings.
• Accept food or drink when offered. Hospitality is sincere; refusal can seem impolite.
• Remove shoes when entering some homes. This is common, especially in rural provinces.
• Carry small cash. Jeepneys, tricycles, and sari-sari stores often don’t accept cards.
• Learn a few Filipino phrases. Simple greetings and thanks are warmly received.
• Support local artisans. Buy handmade crafts and local delicacies directly from communities.
• Ask permission before taking photos. Especially of people, villages, or religious events.
• Raise your voice or appear confrontational. Calm, polite communication is preferred.
• Disrespect religious symbols or churches. Catholic faith plays a central role.
• Point directly at people with your finger. Use an open hand or the Filipino lip-point.
• Assume tap water is safe. Use bottled or filtered water.
• Expect strict punctuality. “Filipino time” often means flexible schedules.
• Flaunt valuables in crowded areas. Pickpocketing can occur in major cities.
• Photograph children without permission. Always ask parents or guardians first.
• Litter on beaches or islands. Environmental care is taken seriously.
• Touch someone’s head. This can be considered disrespectful.
• Raise sensitive political or regional topics uninvited. Wait for locals to lead such conversations.
• Family is central to life. Multi-generational households and strong community ties are common.
• Hospitality is genuine. Visitors are welcomed warmly and generously.
• Catholic traditions blend with local customs. Festivals and rituals are deeply meaningful.
• Humility is admired. Avoid bragging or overly assertive behaviour.
• Respect for elders matters. Titles like Ate (older sister) and Kuya (older brother) are polite.
• Humour is friendly and self-deprecating. Light teasing is normal.
• Music and karaoke are cultural passions. Singing often appears at gatherings.
• Public affection varies by setting. More accepted in cities, subtler in rural areas.
• Shoes-off rules differ. Always check at the door.
• Festivals welcome participation. Dress respectfully at events like Sinulog or Ati-Atihan.
• Use Grab or official taxis. They offer safer, fair-priced transport.
• Carry cash. Many islands and small businesses are cash-only.
• Withdraw money early during holidays. ATMs can run out of cash.
• Pack for tropical weather. Expect humidity, sun, and sudden rain.
• Book island-hopping tours early. Schedules depend on tides and weather.
• Use reef-safe sunscreen. Protects coral reefs and marine life.
• Avoid tap water entirely. Use purified water even for brushing teeth.
• Book flights early for major holidays. Christmas and Holy Week fill fast.
• Carry mosquito repellent. Dengue fever can be a risk.
• Download offline maps. Mobile signal can be weak in rural areas.
• Eat at local carinderias. They serve some of the best Filipino food at low prices.
• Visit islands early in the day. Seas are calmer and crowds lighter.
• Ride jeepneys or tricycles. A true slice of everyday Filipino life.
• Join local festivals. Music, dance, and parades welcome visitor participation.
• Catch iconic sunsets. Palawan, Boracay, and Siargao are standouts.
• Ask locals for hidden spots. Secret beaches and waterfalls are often shared gladly.
• Stay in homestays. Filipino hospitality shines brightest in local homes.
• Shop at major markets. Carbon (Cebu) and Divisoria (Manila) offer unique finds.
• Travel slowly. Island hopping is best enjoyed without rushing.
• Respect marine life. Observe turtles, coral, and starfish without touching.
• Know the emergency number. Dial 911 nationwide.
• Avoid isolated areas at night. Especially in large cities.
• Watch ocean conditions carefully. Strong currents are common and lifeguards rare.
• Drug laws are extremely strict. Severe penalties apply.
• Carry ID or a passport copy. Checkpoints and inter-island travel may require it.
• Allow extra time for traffic. Congestion is common in urban areas.
• Use waterproof bags. Protect valuables during island trips.
• Follow boat safety rules. Avoid overloaded or unlicensed vessels.
• Avoid political demonstrations. Situations can become unpredictable.
• Use licensed operators only. For diving, canyoneering, and trekking activities.
• English is widely spoken. Filipino phrases still show respect and warmth.
• Keep your tone gentle and polite. Delivery matters as much as words.
• Smile often. It builds instant rapport.
• Avoid interrupting. Wait patiently for your turn to speak.
• Use respectful titles. Ate, Kuya, Ma’am, or Sir are appropriate.
• Expect expressive body language. Friendly eye contact and gestures are common.
• Use Messenger or WhatsApp. These are the most common communication tools.
• Ask before taking photos. Especially of families or rural communities.
• Avoid harsh criticism. Indirect communication is more polite.
• Offer sincere compliments. Warm, genuine praise is deeply appreciated.