31-country business-culture briefs — customs stated as common practice, backed by our data.
A handshake is the standard business greeting, typically initiated by the more senior person present. Presenting a business card with both hands upon introduction is considered respectful and is common practice. Warm smiles and friendly small talk are expected as part of first meetings.
Use professional titles with surnames in formal settings, such as 'Attorney Santos' or 'Engineer Reyes,' as titles carry significant weight in Philippine professional culture. Doctors, lawyers, and engineers commonly use their titles in business contexts. Once rapport is established, counterparts will often invite you to use their English first name or nickname.
Avoid publicly criticizing or embarrassing a counterpart, as causing someone to lose face ('hiya') is a serious cultural sensitivity. Displaying visible impatience or pushing aggressively for quick decisions may be perceived as disrespectful. Loud confrontational exchanges are generally considered inappropriate in business settings.
Meetings typically begin with light social conversation before business topics are addressed; jumping straight to the agenda can feel abrupt. English is the primary language of business, so English-language materials and presentations are standard. Decision-making can be hierarchical, and the final decision-maker may not attend the initial meeting.
Building personal relationships ('pakikisama,' or maintaining group harmony) is a foundational element of Philippine business negotiations. A direct 'no' is uncommon; vague or evasive responses often signal reluctance or a need for further internal discussion. Patience and flexibility in approach are practical assets at the negotiating table.
Business meals are commonly held at restaurants, and the host typically covers the bill. Filipino cuisine frequently features pork, seafood, and chicken with sweet and sour flavor profiles; asking about halal or vegetarian options in advance shows consideration for guests. Offering dishes to others before serving oneself is a common gesture of hospitality.
Formal business meetings generally start on or close to schedule, while social engagements may run on a more flexible timeline. Foreign visitors are advised to arrive on time as a sign of respect for their counterparts. Notifying the other party in advance if traffic delays are expected is standard practice, particularly in Metro Manila.
Key public holidays include Independence Day (June 12), Christmas Day (December 25), and Holy Week (the week before Easter, with variable dates each year). Business activity slows considerably during the Christmas–New Year season (December through early January) and Holy Week; scheduling critical meetings during these periods is not advisable. Confirm counterparts' holiday schedules well in advance when planning visits.