12 THINGS NOT TO DO In The Philippines / Get Along With The Locals! 

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Drinking alone until 2 AM and staggering home with your arm around a married woman while singing My Way…what could could possibly go wrong?

I’m an Amer-kano who has lived here in the Philippines since 2007 with my wife of 49 years. I’m not planning on EVER leaving the Philippines, so I definitely avoid doing things that would get the attention of people at places like the Bureau of Immigration, etc., etc. For you foreigners plannjng on visiting the Pnilippines, please pay attention to this young lady’s advice. It will help you have a nice stay here in this beautiful country.

My last trip to the philippines, I usually greet the locals with a "good day" or "hi/hello". I've made it a habit to avoid physical contact since the philippines is so serious about covid restrictions. I greet everyone I come across since it's still a new world that I thoroughly enjoy. I hope to befriend many filipinos there someday but I hope they don't view me as someone that can financially help them, there's only 1 person I'm able to financially help and thats my lady. She's my top priority in the philippines for many reasons including taking care of me while I'm there, watching my back wherever she goes with me, she picks out the food she wants us to eat out or at home and I buy it for us, she translates everything for me since I don't understand tagalog yet and she's very protective and possessive of me, not in a bad way of course, I welcome everything she does for me and I trust in her. For those reasons, I do my best to take care of her and help every chance I get, sometimes I pick her up and carry her when she gets tired (it embarrasses her but she also loves it, she always says PDA is not a big thing there), I also tend to walk in front of her to keep the crowd from walking into her and she'll tell me where to go or turn by touching my hand. We have a very unique way of bonding with each other and we never once fought or argued, I always do my best to keep everything I do positive for her and I'm always supportive of her. We both go above and beyond for each other and we are pretty much mirrors of each other despite me being her polar opposite, because of that we are pretty much cemented into each others lives.

I am Ross from Brisbane . Australia . I agree with all your comments . Respect is paramount . When you go to another country, you have to adopt the customs . In Thailand, you cannot point your foot at someone .

Pea, One other thing. When I was there with my wife, I learned if her family manipulated me, I would talk with her about it, never talk directly to them. She is my filter. She is bicultural and understands how to interpret western ideas into Philippino. I love her so deeply for doing this. Guys, your Filipina, if she has any understanding about western culture, is the person to vent with, NOT at, when it comes to certain situations, particularly with family. I am exceptionally blessed to be her husband.

Charming lady. Strong but never the less smart and practical. 😊😊

What a big different in culture of Filipino and western world. Really interesting to know it. Thanks Pea.

Beyond not "dating" married women, you might not want to date women with "exs" in government, law enforcement, legal (ie lawyers), or anyone else that could mess with you just for fun cause you are with their ex. It's a good general rule no matter where you live.

I'd follow those rules all over Southeast Asia. The cultures are different, but morally the countries are pretty similar. ❤ God bless everyone stay happy healthy and safe 🙏🙏🙏

You are the right person for this job, very informative and well-mannered person.

You are very informative, and beautiful as well, thanks for caring enough to help us keep mistakes to a minimum

Fair enough for foreigners as guests in the Philippines...but not challenging those in power is precisely what's keeping corrupt police and politicians from being held accountable. .

I was planning to retire back ‘home’ after being away from the Philippines for more than 40 years. Your Vlog just reminded me the reasons why I couldn’t wait to leave Philippines in the first place when I was young. 😊Thank you. Well done. I owe you one.

You're very educational thank you for your videos 😊

@TheFilipinaPea I really enjoy your videos, I am watching them daily. Even though I have been to the Philippines multiple times (all through the military, only once personally), I am shocked hearing what a lot of foreigners are doing or thinking. All I can say is if your not a duck and allow the water to roll off your back, do not bother going to the Philippines. They do not own or control the Philippines, they are guests. I have the highest respect for the Philippine and the citizens of the Philippines. I recently met my future Filipina wife on a dating site, and she is currently working a work contract. When she completed the contract, we both will be moving to the Philippines. I had never learned what true love is, until I met her. I have met a few Filipinas over the years, but I know she is golden. I am excited to start our adventures together. Back to your videos, you have really gave me a great learning experience, and really enjoy hearing your thoughts and information. Thank you again for such a goldmine of information.

As with visiting anywhere, it's always a good idea to adapt to the culture. It really does save a lot of hassles.

Weird, charming, loving, smart, insightful, funny, love you Weird 😍 Filipinas..

Thanks! Good tips, I will keep them on my list!!

I think respecting your elders is common knowledge everywhere in the world it should be. I always respect my elders. Older people I pay special attention to to help them in their time of need whether they are stranger or not

A lot of that is basic politeness that people should be doing wherever they are in the world. Your weird is one of the reasons you're so lovely Pea! Take care, we need you to mind our manners 😊❤🥰

Very informative Pea. I already lived for 2 years in your country and I know that a humble attitude and being polite and respectful under all circumstances take you a long way.

Useful advice. Thank you.

That's a lot of good advice for anyone that travels anywhere. In the beginning you mentioned politics. There's nothing I hate worse than people coming to America and complaining about our way of life. Most of these people came here for more freedom and better way of life. Within a month many of them are taking advantage of that freedom and are out protesting on the streets about how terrible it is here. America is one of the most generous and accepting countries in the world. I like the idea that the Philippines will boot your butt out and not allow you back. I'll have to remember about shaking hands there. In our culture, shaking hands is a sign of personal respect and welcome. It is also a sign of a person's Bond or Word. That's why videos like yours are very important. It would be terrible to unknowingly disrespect someone. I would love to visit the Philippines one day. You have a beautiful country with so many wonderful things to see. My personal experience with Filipinos here in America has always been very positive. They always seem to be happy and in good spirits and caring of others. I have subscribed and will continue to watch your videos. ~ Stay healthy, happy, and safe ~

In the United States at least, a doggy bag just means you're taking food home; usually a person will eat it. It's just an expression

Thank you Pea ! I enjoyed adding all of these to my "preparing to leave for heaven(Philippines)" list ! In a single breath I recap and try to memorize: No Politics, Pointing or comPLaining, no shoes no elder disrespecting no heated argument, no rejecting food, handshakes, dating married woman, public drunkenness or getting into a brawl and, most importantly, No singing My Way from Sinatra and no taking the last piece of food!

Thank you Pea for the valuable info. As a retired expat, this is my new home so I need to know these things. I really like it here in the Philippines. 18 months and counting.

Lots of useful and relevant advice here, thanks Pea. It’s easy to appear impolite or rude, just by acting the way that is customary in your own country and not realising it’s offensive. Understanding the culture and customs will go a long way to ensuring an enjoyable and problem free experience. Another great topic.

Pea, If there are only 12 things not to do, it's easy ;) Although I might disagree with no. 11 - karaoke bars are best for meeting friendliest Filipinos in the world - some might not know how to sing, but be sure you will be offered free beer and will make friends very easily there! :) Even though it might not be some university professors singing there, but construction workers, seamen and other normal people like that - again it depends how you treat people, if you treat them as your equal and don't judge them based on their social status, they will be friendly back to you! And usually this are the best, the friendliest and the most generous people you can meet!!!

You are not weird as you claim. You are an honest and real woman who is intelligent and is trying to help others with useful information about her culture for anyone who wants to live in your beautiful country. America has been a depressing, hopeless nightmare because of the people for many years now. I am leaving it for the Philippines as soon as I have saved up enough. (I'm not a retiree...I'm younger than that.) Thank you, "Pea", you have given me some hope again for happiness, warmth, love and friendship after I have had no reasons to have any hope at all for such a long time.

Interesting I would have never known this. Thanks again for the education

As usual … you’re the best. Another “no no” I learned years ago in the Philippines is to never call a Filipino over by curling your index finger. Instead turn your hand upside down and use all your fingers.

Hi "Sweet Pea"...All your words in this video are "Words of wisdom". Interesting enough they also apply in most Countries with a large Latino presence like, Spain, Puerto Rico, Santo Domingo, Cuba, Mexico, Central & South America. These places, like the Philipines, were highly Influenced in passed Times by the Spaniard culture, to the point that when commiting one of the offenses you just mentioned, the "Perp" might find themselves slapped on the face with a Leather glove and "invited" to a Duel. ( wich were Outlawed all over the world long time ago and still happens). I learned looong time ago that Politics are only addressed In Voting Poll Lines by Voting. Religion is a No Trespass Zone for most humans. Family is, Do Not cross that Line, EVER.( specially with "Abu"San, & "PapaSan"). Have a Sunny day..!

Really good video, Pea. I especially appreciate the points about keeping one’s cool and being aware of the dangers of “loss of face.” That’s sound advice for pretty much everywhere I’ve been in Asia. Subbed! 😃

Marami salamat sa inyong pag-share

Regardless of your status as a foreigner (retired or working, single or dating/married to a Filipina, etc.) always think of yourself as a guest at someone's house and act accordingly.

A good rule of thumb is to remember when you’re in a foreign country, you have NO RIGHTS! Getting in trouble is paramount to the authorities throwing you in a cell and tossing the key. Always research that country’s culture and abide by it no matter how rediculous you think it is.

In snowy or rainy areas, Westerners do take their shoes off before entering a house. In a lot of the West, every square inch of the ground is covered with concrete, grass, or pavement, so shoes don't have much opportunity to get dirty.

Thank you for your material . It has kind of helping me to understand my filipino cousins

One more comment, having been in the military and visiting the Philippines in the past along with many other places. I understand the importance of observing the culture of where you are. Many things are different from here in the states. My girlfriend and I talk a lot about when I come there. She wants me to try many foods. I have told her some may be off my menu.

15:53 I suppose this could be spoken where ever you go and its basic politeness. Pea is more candid than usual in this particular video, love it. lol

Thank you for all the information you give. You are very wise.

Thanks for the tips, I’m an American Filipino visiting home solo at 19

Living overseas since 1988 and what u said could apply to dozens of counties. Learn about the foreign culture and be culturally sensitive. Never cause locals, especially powerful locals to lose face. Just remember you are a visitor, not a citizen. Be very low key till you understand what not to do. That can take years sometimes.

The rule about elders bodes well for me. I'm 54 and I have no kids. Years ago, when I knew nothing about the Philippines other than that my dad was stationed at Subic Bay during his first years in the Navy, a traditionalist asked me who would take care of me when I was old. I replied "A Filipina nurse, of course!!" Now I see that it doesn't have to be a nurse or even a woman. America isn't nearly as altruistic.

I love lecheon, chicken adobo,kinilaw,sinigang baboy simpalok,bulalo and Red Horse! Masarap djan,po!👍🍻🤗

I didn't know u could not talk about politics but that's good to know! I'm from the UK and my uncle is married to a Filipino and she is distant relative of president Durante

“Don’t be a douche”. An excellent life strategy, Pea!

It's always wise to know what not to do in a new environment. From my own travels, I was taught to remember that I'm a guest when in someone else's country. So this advice is well received. I plan to visit in September if all goes well. This was a very informative video Pea.

Hey Pea. I'd like to address the issue about respecting the elderly in the Philippines. I've heard about that many times over and for many years. And I've seen time and time again where perfectly healthy young people use the seniors line at the grocery store and their kids with their faces glued to the phone sitting in the seats provided for the elderly. I've seen the elderly get pushed and shoved out of the way at every single jeepnee terminal I've seen. Old people cast out onto the street because of what ever reason. People just totally and completely ignoring the elderly at any kind of a line and just bumping their way in front of them . In truth Pea; I really doubt that the Philippines is much more different than other countries. Now I've seen respect for the elderly in a family setting , but outside of that situation , respect for the elderly is very very lacking .

Highly highly informative.. Thanks Pea

Most of these apply to the whole of SE Asia (e.g Thai 'wai' greeting and hierarchy) and a few - like shoes off - apply in the west too. I always ask, especially in a fancy house. Slippers were 'house shoes' traditionally in the UK, and country houses/farms often have 'boot rooms' where all outside muddy boots and shoes are left. City dwellers with pavements and hard floors don't really bother so much...😁

Wow! Thank you, Pea! Important information. #1 - 10 are good common sense rules of thumb to follow no matter where you are: home, the Philippines, other countries, etc. #11 and 12 surprised me, though. So, good advice. Hopefully, foreigners visiting the Philippines will take note and follow your advice. I noticed that most of these rules can be boiled down into one word: RESPECT! Always be respectful. Having been raised by old-fashioned parents, I always try to be respectful, especially to elders. But I try to show respect to everyone else, too: police, firemen, store clerks, restaurant staff, strangers I encounter on the street or in stores, even children (this last was probably one of the reasons my students loved me... that, and being the weird and funny teacher). I always look forward to your videos, Pea. When I see the notification that you've posted a new one, I can't help but smile. I subscribe to a lot of channels, so I watch a lot of videos every day. When I see that you've posted a new video, I watch it after all of the others, saving the best for last!

Your accurate and wide use of western slang is impressive

Wonderful comments from an intelligent lady .. Thank you for advises...

You continue to be a trusted source of good information. I have been in the Philippines for slightly more than a month, and you still guide me in my journey.

More great advice for those going to the Phillipines.

Not long joined your community and making my way through your vids. Really great advice you give in a funny relaxed and informative way. As others have said most of what you've said is respect the culture you wish to join/be part of, be respectful of others/their way of life and don't be a 'douche' is so applicable everywhere. Great to hear some of the very different attitudes too and great advice. the only (obvious??) thing I'd add is when you're in someone else's home, which may not have furniture, fittings, bathroom etc that you're used too, just accept it and don't comment other than to say 'how lovely'.

Lots of valuable info, Thank you.

Philippine Cultural Specialist Pea: You are very thoughtful to educate us about this. Especially now since the country is opening up and Americans and other foreigners are traveling to the Philippines. All twelve (12) make great understanding for me. I believe Americans and other foreigners will find that the Philippines and Filipino people are really gracious and understanding. They try to help you so much in my opinion from living there in the past. Always enjoy the Police skit so much and I thank you for educating us so much. Paradise in the Philippines is wonderful.

Pea, I'm so glad you made this video. I am coming to Phillipines in 1 month. I will be staying Barrio Barreto. You do such a great job with your videos. You saved me.

Great info . thank you

I spent the day watching different videos and being informed by you the pros and cons and behaviors to be aware of. You are very bright and entertaining while being believable and the truth you speak is very recognizable. If I was looking for a Filipina I would want you or a clone exactly like you. You have a beautiful spirit and truly want to help others and that is like gold. Keep up the good work and keep smiling, you're very lovely.

Here’s some things I’ve learned not to do in the Philippines from my own transgressions. Don’t accept an offer to be a judge at a local beauty contest. Those ladies take it serious and make football hooligans look like wimps. I call it the Filipina NFL. They play rough. No blood no foul. I have seen Filipinas crushed for life by a negative response from the audience. A wrong pick and you could end up as lechon. Don’t make jokes about their religion. For example my Filipinas first name is Esther. When I was introduced to her by name I quipped “Esther? Funny…you don’t look Jewish.”. That went over like a lead doughnut. Don’t ever, ever, ever tell your Filipina her sister is a better kisser. You will die! When dating a Filipina wear blinders. Cause if you accidentally look at another Filipina, and god help you if she’s a pretty one, you may be speaking as a soprano for a long time to come. Don’t get confused when doing mannapo and offer your hand to an elder for a blessing instead of the other way around. Not a way to get off to a good start. If you’re taking a shower with your Filipina and the water is abruptly cut off and she says Ay! Walang Tubig…don’t tell her friends she thinks you have a big banana. Never tell a Filipina she’s just like her Nanay. Never compliment your Filipinas hair when she’s having a bad hair day. This one is particularly difficult as you’ll have no idea, based on her appearance, that she’s having a bad hair day!

Many of the things you mention would apply to many other countries as well. I would say about 80% of what you mentioned would apply to the Caribbean. I just love officer Pea. 👍🌴

Your discrption is very accurate your country people behave like that Here and have a hell of a time working with other nationals usually sit in the corner with a red face

As as new subscriber, I am amazed of your knowledge of certain vernacular and euphemisms of the western language. Very impressive delivery and explanations of "west meets Asia". Please continue the great videos.

So true Pea. Even in our culture (not Filipino) pointing at anyone with ur finger will land u in trouble too😎

Hi Pea, in most of the Asian countries people don't enter houses with shoes on. It is a practice in India too. It is also advisable to a visitor not to meddle in the politics of the host country. One foreign RU-vidr got his visa extension rejected for participating in a demonstration against the local government. Good content.

Hi pea, I know it is 1 year ago you made this video. But I just recognise it now. Thank you very much for it because it opened my mind a lot about this video. Again Hank you

Not weird just respectful On my way in November 😊

Well... these "things" just made me change my mind of ever visiting Philippines ... Thank you !!!

I would fit right in with Asian/Filipino culture, especially in the area of shoes. Every time I come home I always take my shoes off. The no finger pointing is going to be very hard though.

I will be coming to the Philippines mid Aug so these tips are timely and instructive . Thx a lot.

Agreed , its not our country and we are guests , act accordingly!!!

All of these are so true!! A few extras might be... - Always get seconds or risk insulting your host that their food isn't good. - Don't use "Kuya" or "Ate" if the person is younger than you. If you're unsure it's better to use "Pare" or "Mare" - First names are seldom used, but every Filipino has a nickname(s) that they are commonly referred too, especially in the province. So don't be surprised when your girl starts answering to names you're not familiar with. - Assume that everyone around you can understand what you're saying in English, because they can. Don't think you're not being listened too just because none of the locals are speaking any English. - If you speak Tagalog to a girl you just met, be prepared for 20 questions about how you learned those words. She will suspect another girl is responsible. 🤣🤣🤣

Keeping Law and Order Ms. Pea, "Telling it Like it is" Well Done😘💕 Cheers🥰 Simper Fi

Hi Pea, 👋Quentin here, and thanks for things about not to do there...

Great content

Every culture needs to be respected. As a visitor it’s good to be aware of these things.

Great advice for avoiding the cultural mine field. I will always treat people with respect but just because I'm the foreigner in a country, doesn't mean that I will ignore blatant hostility or disrespect. If I am left alone, I'm as easy going as the next person. Verbal abuse runs off my back like water. Hostile physical contact will result in one or both of us being in the hospital or worse. I've even been in situations where a police officer or judge has become verbally disrespectful and then discover that no further conversation is possible as I will not verbally acknowledge them anymore. Take care Pea.

This list just made me confused and feel like we can get violated but can defend ourselves, its wild.

I have been watching your videos to educate myself before coming to Cebu in a few months. Thank you for great advice Miss Pea.

The taking the last piece of food happened to me. I think they set me up though, they all told me to take it if I really wanted it and I did, their reaction was shock and teasing haha 😂 I won't soon forget that lesson learned

For people from abroad a good book will be: 'CultureShock Philippines'. Bought this almost thirty years ago but is still around and for sale!

I was in a committed relationship with a Filipina that I had known since the age of 19 and had only met her parents via Skype. We purchased a home during the 2008 housing crisis for 350,000 that markets for 900,000 today. Her parents wanted to see America before they die. I thought kool, how wonderful but took it a step further and suggested they stay 5 years as to obtain their Green Cards that would help facilitate their other two children citizenship, and their children. Worst mistake ever! Things were fine for the first week. The father was totally disrespectful. He said that he would fight me when he became angry with his daughter. On another occasion he said he would kill me with a devilish intensity. The father became the sole cook as soon as he entered the threshold of our home for the first time. He's a marvelous cook. The food was so delicious that I knew I could be easily poisoned and thus I refused the food. After all, my life was threatened while he had knife in hand. The odd thing is that he would find me in the night and ask for money. Three years into my brilliant plan for their offspring I knew I had to break it off with my sweetheart of 21 years as it was apparent that me being disrespected was ok in her book. She sought to take no measures to ensure that my life would not be threatened or that I would not be disrespected in my own home. A Filipina, in my experience, will side with their family even if their family perpetuates evil. If you are looking for a "Ride-or-die" Filipina. Not sure if that exists. All will be well until it's time to "Ride-or-die". It is cultural. Here in the states we understand right and wrong as do they but they will not side with right for the sake of their traditions. Additionally, with the anti-asian laws that were signed into effect here in America, the possibility of losing my freedom if he tried to take my life was a reality for me. Remember, even if you are attacked by the father they will not side with right. It is a cultural character flaw. The ideology is a backdrop for corruption in so many different facets of life.

Again great advice for newbies... seasoned travellers follows these advice thanks Pea great video....

Amazingly I've sang My Way many times in the Philippines, and I got a little too tipsy there as well, but your gracious people took care of me and made sure that I got back to my hotel safely. Here in the States, I would have been robbed or worse.

That finger-pointing one really got me one time. When joking with a Filipino friend and the finger-pointing is part of the joke she took it like a slap in the face and stuff and go to Ballinger either. A couple of her friends were controlling her and I had no idea what was going on. And after all that calm down a reminder please remember that she’s on the Philippines anymore. We have different cultures customs here that she should be aware of so as not to get offended for no reason. When I visited the Philippines I never pointed my finger at anyone or anything just to make sure

Fantastic video. Thank you.

Thank you. This is very helpful...

The part about respecting elders, I grew up in the country and the south. We were always taught respect to our elders. In my family, we take care of our own. Unless they require hospital care.

Hey pea, great video as always. Love your channel too btw.

Appreciate your advice , it is mostly common sense anywhere one os even oour own Countries , one thing though in my family being raised we had indoor shoes and outdoor shoes as many families did there , indoor ones were called slippers , you have to understand in many Countries the floors are brrrr , cold most of the year so it is only healthy to keep your feet warm and lastly we were never allowed to wear shoes to bed ,,, now here in our home ( been happily married here for 10 years to my lovely Philippina Wife ) we also have inside and outside shoes , my Wife has already given me your advice on what not to do but i do appreciate your shows and advice , thank You 😀 take care

Hello Pea. These are good things to know because each country has their own individual way of doing things and it’s good to be mindful and respectful of those traditions. Enjoy your week and look forward to your next video soon. In the meantime I will follow the instructions of Officer Pea 👮🚓

Pea, you did another awesome job. Thank you for putting so much effort into your videos.

Thanks!

The last part of the video was really funny. This was another great video. I truly appreciate the details. From my prospective, common curtesy goes a long way. I appreciate the tips on the things that are more than common curtesy.

I have visited the Philippines many times and always have a lot of respect for the locals. The only trouble I ever witnessed was started by some drunk foreigners.

The Filipina Pea is very good at what she does here in her videos, she is undoubtedly very talented, her presentation is brilliant, her speaking voice, her intonation, her pronunciation accent with the English language is certainly amongst the top 20% of native English languages speakers in the USA and the UK, not to mention the others English speaking countries around the world, I am writing this comment on the hope that someone with the right connections in the English speaking world, will realize that Pea is a person that should, initially, be helped to do much greater things in her professional life, be it in acting, live or cinema, which by what we see she seems very good at, but there must be many more roles, as a, say, reporter, interviewer on TV, news anchor and commentator any role where speaking and presentation skills are paramount, Pea should and I am sure would fulfill those roles brilliantly and professionally impeccably! and therefore helping her employer and bosses to get out of her in financial rewards much more than what it would cost them to employ her! There must be out there in the USA, UK, Australia, someone that if only would see Pea in action, so to speak, would indeed be very impressed and realize what an asset she can be to the company! I am only writing this comment on the hope that someone capable of helping will read it and take notice, I am only saying this because of what I see on her videos, I don't personally know Pea, I most probably will never meet her, it is just that I think it has to be said!