Filipino Culture 101: Polite Speech, Gestures & 'Po' vs 'Ho'

Language and culture are inseparable in the Philippines. Saying "po" wrong can make you sound rude, while using it in the right context would earn you instant brownie points.

While there are a lot of complexities with politeness and Filipino culture, we're here to help you simplify and navigate these nuances.

Here's your crash course on Filipino customs, etiquette, and unspoken rules to help you navigate conversations and social settings with confidence.

Honorific Words: po, opo, mano

Filipinos value politeness, especially toward elders and in formal settings. These words and gestures show respect:

• po – adds formal politeness to statements/questions (e.g., "Salamat po")
• opo – polite, formal way to say "yes" to elders or authority figures
• ho – adds politeness to statements/questions, but is not as formal as "po" (e.g., "Salamat ho")
• oho – polite way to say "yes" to elders or authority figures, but not as formal

While these are the formal distinctions between 'po and 'ho, they are colloquially interchangeable. You will notice that "po" is more common, but you really can't go wrong using either of these honorifics!

Bonus:

• mano po – traditional gesture: bow slightly and press elder's hand to your forehead as a sign of respect

As traditions have changed, not every elder is comfortable with the "mano po" or finds if appropriate. If you find yourself in a situation and are unsure what to do, follow the lead of others, or ask if it's appropriate to do so.

When to Use Honorific Words

• ✅ When speaking to elders (parents, grandparents, aunts/uncles)
• ✅ When speaking to service workers
• ✅ When speaking to authority figures
• ✅ In formal settings

Table & Gift Etiquette

When invited to a Filipino home or gathering:

• ✅ Always accept food or drink, even a small portion, to avoid seeming rude.
• ✅ Saying "no thanks" is fine—but expect to be offered again!
• ✅ Bring a small gift (pasalubong) like snacks, fruit, or baked goods when visiting.
• ✅ Wait for the elder or host to start eating before you begin.
• ✅ Don't point with your finger—instead, gesture with your lips or hand.

Pro tip: Compliment the food (even modestly) to show appreciation.

Common Cultural Traps for Foreigners

Here are things that unintentionally raise eyebrows:

• ⚠️ Skipping po/opo with elders or authority figures
• ⚠️ Refusing food repeatedly
• ⚠️ Showing frustration in public (Filipinos favor patience and calm)
• ⚠️ Calling older strangers by first name (use Ate for women, Kuya for men)
• ⚠️ Wearing shoes inside certain homes (check first—some remove them at the door)

When in doubt, err on the side of formality and friendliness.

Final Thoughts

Politeness isn't just about language; it's a deep cultural value in the Philippines. Learning to say "po" naturally, using respectful gestures, and following basic etiquette makes a big difference.

Magsimula na tayo! 🇵🇭 (Let's get started!)