Greeting in Philippines
Filipinos are known for their warmth and hospitality and share a lot of customs with the rest of South-East Asia. For example, avoid showing or pointing the soles of your feet, which are considered unclean, or touching someone’s head, considered sacred. But the country’s Spanish and American historical influence means the language and greetings will be familiar to you. If you participate in our Village Healthcare programme you’ll encounter different customs than in the city.- Handshakes are common but they are soft handshakes. A strong handshake isn’t necessary to assert yourself.
- Kissing as a greeting is inappropriate, as are pats on the back and touching the shoulder until you’ve developed a personal relationship.
- Family is important and extended families live together. You can expect to see families in the hospital, curious about your patient and attentive.
- Losing control, raising your voice or shouting at all is usually considered shameful to one’s family.
- Filipino’s would rather avoid embarrassment and often do so through laughter.
- In conversation, Filipino’s often say ‘yes’ or ‘maybe’ rather than ‘no’. It’s all about keeping things positive and saving face, as in other countries in the region.
- Don’t complain - keep a harmonious atmosphere. “Be like a sponge. Soak up as much of the experience as possible.” Rob Kidd, 2013
- “Hello” is well understood and Mr and Mrs. are also appropriate at first. As you make friends the locals and our staff are sure to teach you comfortable alternatives in Hiligaynon, which is spoken in Iloilo.
- Thank you - Salamat (add ‘po’ for formality and when speaking to an elder i.e. salamat po)
refer : https://www.worktheworld.com/blog/customs-greetings-and-etiquette-getting-it-right-philippines
Malaysia |
English |
Thai |
| Kumusta | Hello | สวัสดี |
| Magandang umaga | Good morning | สวัสดีตอนเช้า |
| Magandang Tanghali | Good afternoon | สวัสดีตอนกลางวัน |
| Magandang Gabi | Good evening | สวัสดีตอนเย็น |
| Kumusta ka? | How are you ? | เป็นอย่างไรบ้าง? |
| Mawalang galang! | Sorry! | ขอโทษ! |
| Salamat | Thank You | ขอบคุณ |
| Palam | Goodbye | ลาก่อน |
