Certain etiquette is expected in the Filipino culture. Some things to know are:

• Older or most important people are introduced first.
• A handshake and smile is traditional.
• Female friends may hug and kiss when first meeting.
• Titles and surnames are used until an invitation to use a first name or nickname is given.7
• A gift is expected when a person is invited to a meal but gifts are not opened right away.
• Do not refer to the woman of the house as a “hostess” as the meaning of the word in different in the Philippines.
• It is polite to compliment the woman on the house.
• A handwritten thank you note for dinner is appreciated.
• Let the hosts ask several times before going into dining room or eating food.
• Let hosts tell guests where to sit.7