Cultural Diversity In Philippines

The Philippines is known as the land of cultural diversity. With over 110 indigenous communities and 170 ethnolinguistic groups, the cultural diversity of Philippines seems to be growing. Moreover, history bears testimony to the fact that the Philippines has been colonized by several countries. This is also the reason that the culture of these countries has assimilated into the Philippines culture

Due to the exposure to different customs, traditions and cultural practices, Filipinos are extremely hospitable and accepting. Moreover, the cultural diversity in Philippines often attracts many people to study it.

Here are a few cultural practices of Philippines which make an interesting read:

• Filipino Family Values- The family is the center of the Filipino social structure. It includes the intimate family, the intermediate family and other outside relations such as godparents and close relatives. The Chinese settlers started a practice in the Philippines where it is common for the same family to work in the same company. This practice still continues in their culture. Moreover, the Filipinos live in different kind of houses depending on the socio-economic status of their family.
• Filipino’s Idea Of Shame– Shame acts as a motivating factor that helps to conform to the social norms and behaviour. It is believed in the Filipino culture, that one must live up to the accepted standards of behaviour. If they fail to do so, they will not only bring shame to themselves but also their family. One instance of this is an individual’s willingness to spend more than he can afford on occasion with a view to avoid being shamed by their economic circumstances.
• Filipino Meeting And Gift Etiquette- Greetings play an important role in the Filipino culture. Greetings usually begin with acknowledging the eldest or the most important person in a congregation followed by others. A firm handshake is the standard greeting. However, some women hug and kiss each other when they greet. Another important greeting etiquette is to address the person by their honorific titles or surname until the acquaintance increases to an extent where they can be addressed by their first name. Exchange of gifts is an important part of the Filipino culture. However, it is considered rude to open the gift immediately when received. Wrapping of gift is as important as the gift itself.  Flowers, fruits, sweets all kinds of gifts are accepted and well received.
• Filipino Dining Etiquette- Following the dining etiquette reveals a lot about the person. According to the Filipino dining custom, one must arrive 15-30 minutes early if he is invited to dine with a large party. Moreover, one must never address his wife as the hostess; it is interpreted differently in the Filipino culture. Complementing the hostess is an important practice that must be followed. The manner in which you dress reveals a lot about you. Moreover, sending thank you notes after the dinner party is considered classy.

While sitting on the table, one must wait till they are offered a seat and told to sit. It is dining practice in the Philippines. It is rude to start eating till the hostess invites you to do so. Meals are often buffets, where one has to self-serve. Spoon and fork is the cutlery used in the Philippines; where you hold the spoon in the right hand and the fork in the left.