Filipino
Customs
Faithfulness to the family is a tradition that is
characteristic of Filipino society. This family loyalty is apparent in
the fact that there are no booming businesses for retirement homes or
orphanages in the Philippines.
Also important to Filipinos is treating
elders (even someone a year older is an "elder") with the respect and
deference they deserve and require. There are many ways a person can show
respect, whether it is by using hand gestures or speaking in a manner that
denotes respect.
As with many Asian countries, removal of
shoes is customary when entering someone's home. By doing this the
visitors shows his/her respect for the family and their home, as well as having
basic courtesy.
To recognize
an elder's presence, a younger person may take the elder's hand (usually someone
at least 15 years older), bring it to forehead and then release it.
It is also customary for Filipinos to use
a lot of hand and facial gestures to communicate. In their communication
with each other, speaking politely is important as is speaking with a gentle
tone of voice. Arguing is not acceptable, along with public criticism.
Unlike other Asian countries where women tend to be in more
subservient positions, women in the Philippines have had high societal
positions since precolonial times. Since there is sexual equality,
businesses are more accepting of women performing business. This attitude
is apparent with the current Philippine preside. President Gloria
Macapagal-Arroyo is the second woman to hold
this esteemed position. Corazon Aquino was the first female president
and held the position from 1986-1992).
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