Manila Dress Code

Visitors are advised to dress conservatively, especially when visiting Muslim and Catholic shrines. If you are planning a trip out into the country then it is even more important to bear this in mind, as rural areas can quite patriarchal, and it is important that women should dress and behave modestly so as not to offend.

Greeting Someone in Manila

Basic respect for others is regarded as very important by Filipinos, who are often concerned about potential loss of face. So common courtesies should be observed. Shaking hands is an accepted form of greeting. It is considered very rude to point and to raise your voice. When dining, try to remember to keep your hands above the table and if you are eating with local people, note that they are unlikely to start their meals until you have had a bite or two of yours. It's also polite to leave a small portion on your plate to indicate that you have had enough to eat.

Manila Business Hours and Banking

Hours of business in Manila are usually between 08:00 and 17:00 Monday to Friday, with an hour or so for lunch. Some companies in the private sector may also open their offices on Saturday mornings between 08:00 and 12:00. Banks are less likely to be open on Saturday mornings but will opeare at similar times to offices during the week.

Manila Smoking

There is a ban on smoking on public transport in Manila and the visitor should observe this even if the locals often do not. In business, it is advisable to refrain and take cues from the host.