Cultural etiquette is important when developing and maintaining relationships

with individuals of our own, but also those from other cultures. Understanding
and being sensitive about the social manners of different people, especially
your colleagues will help you maintain harmonious relationships and makes
you interact positively in the most effective manner.
The first encounters generally engage two or more people greeting one another,
which is how relationships are started. In today’s environment, you may have
had the opportunity to first meet virtually, which may alleviate some of the
anxiousness and awkwardness because it saves you from the jitteriness caused
by face-to-face encounters, especially if the people you are greeting are those
whom you know are superior. It also saves you from the problem of choosing
whether to bow, handshaking, wave and more ways on how to greet.
But what if you really did meet someone personally, whether as a new face or
one from an old relationship? Then you might want to remember these. Do
consider what showing the appropriate eye contact, what to say first, the
emotions you exude, and the overall expression of your face. Even the order of
whom to greet first in a social event can show who are the closest to you or the
ones you give respect most. Knowing proper way to address someone is
important as well. For example, the practice of using first names, surnames,
titles, degrees, and so forth varies from country to country, so learn what’s
appropriate. One must know at least basic or common phrases in greeting used
in the country.
Filipinos are known to be casual, fun-loving, sensitive and hospitable people.
Personal and family honors are highly respected and highly valued, as well as
dignity and pride. Hiya or shame is instilled in Filipinos at an early age because
it is said that it is a root factor behind one’s behavior. It is a sense of social
propriety and conforming to societal norms of behavior. The concept of shame
influences the behavior of Filipinos through believing that they must live up to
the accepted standards of behavior (e.g., respect to elders, dressing modestly
especially on public, etc.) which highly influences how they greet, speak, and
act.