Buzz
Visiting the Philippines, you might be surprised to see armed individuals everywhere. You may also encounter traffic issues. Additionally, the country is home to numerous churches.
Travelers Might Find These Things Surprising When Visiting the Philippines
Catholicism Takes the Lead
In the Philippines, the majority of the population adheres to Catholicism. It's the most Catholic country in Asia. Therefore, don't be surprised to witness expressions of faith everywhere, whether on cars, buses, or in public places. Even during shopping, people may pause to listen to prayers emanating from public speakers. Also, if you visit in September, don't be surprised as people prepare for… Christmas.
Avoiding the Use of Knives
At the dining table, you'll hardly find the presence of knives. Filipinos use their hands, spoons, and forks for their meals. Don't expect to see a knife here.
Avoid complaining about traffic
In the Philippines, traffic has always been a nuisance. Traffic jams happen frequently, and people are too accustomed to it. They're so used to it that they see it as normal. So, don't complain about traffic to the locals. Such remarks might irritate them.
Avoid using the word 'maybe'
“Maybe” may sound polite elsewhere, but in the Philippines, it's often perceived as rude. If you use 'maybe' in response to a suggestion or question, Filipinos will interpret it as a blunt rejection.
Don't be shocked to see weapons everywhere
In front of KFC, McDonald's, or even small stalls, you might spot someone wielding an AK47 vigilantly. Don't be startled, as security in the Philippines isn't stable, and locals resort to such measures to safeguard themselves.
Becoming accustomed to overloaded motorbikes
In Vietnam, you might frown upon motorbikes carrying 3 or 4 people. However, in the Philippines, ferrying 6 is the norm, and don't rush to judge. It's simply a part of life in this nation of over 100 million people.
Attempting the Philippine national anthem
Few countries prioritize singing their national anthem like the Philippines does. For locals, failing to know the anthem could lead to a conviction... serving 2 years in jail or paying over $2,000 in fines. While this doesn't apply to foreigners, mastering parts of the Philippine anthem will undoubtedly leave a profound impression.
For Filipinos, going to jail is... amusing
If you ever hear someone narrating about prison life in the Philippines, don't be too startled. Here, imprisonment isn't as daunting as it is in many other countries worldwide. In the Philippines, inmates experience a certain degree of freedom. They engage in dance, participate in filming... This is why, after the 2013 Haiyan typhoon, half of the prisoners from a province in the Philippines voluntarily returned to prison once the storm subsided. Prior to that, due to the prison's roof being blown away and walls collapsing, they had to seek temporary refuge outside.
As per Ngoisao.net
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Reference: Travel guide by Mytour
MytourNovember 23, 2015
