A sense of delicadeza is also important to Filipinos. This is what you might refer to as propriety, a simple sense of good behaviour, particularly in the presence of elders or women. Filipinos who don't speak good English will often answer any question you ask them with a smile and a nod. Be careful: a smile and a nod doesn't always mean "yes". It can also mean "no", "maybe" or "I have no idea what you are talking about". Colonization by America left its mark on the national psyche, so don't be offended if everyone in the provinces thinks you are a 'kano. Protestations that you are from Britain, France or Australia will often be greeted with the response, "Is that in America?"

Children appreciate gifts of sweets, the kind you can buy from street vendors for a couple of pesos. It's not advisable to lose your temper in the Philippines. Filipinos hate to be embarrassed in front of others and the culture of revenge is strong, so you might end up being the one that is sorry.

Filipinos share the same attitudes to dress as other Southeast Asian countries .