Understanding the Filipino

Excerpt from the Preface: To a foreigner, living in the Philippine culture is like playing a game one has never played before and of which the rules haven't been explained very well. This book aims to provide the reader with an understanding of the "game"and some of its rules. The challenge, however, is for the reader to enjoy the game without missing the joys and fun of living in the Philippines. This book is a detailed study of Filipino etiquette, values, mores, customs and manners which show the differences as well as similarities in behavioral expectations that arise when a Westerner comes to live in an Eastern culture. Filipinos often think, sometimes with good cause, that Westerners are ruse and make no attempt to adapt themselves to the manners and customs of their host country. However, when one is ignorant of the fact that such rules exist he can hardly be blamed for not conforming to them. Hence, this book.