Culture and habits
There are two official languages Filipino (Tagalog) and English on the territory of the Philippines. Filipinos are very friendly and smiling. They welcome tourists with open arms. A typical feature of conduct in dealing with situations calmly and with a broad smile. Filipinos are considered to be one of the happiest nations in the world, humble, hospitable people with a sense of humour. However, beware of using the index finger in the non-verbal communication, which may be associated with an American symbol upright middle finger. Local people point the direction by a wave of the hand towards the palm facing down.
Filipino specific history significantly influenced its culture. Particularly Spanish colonialisms affected one of the most important parts of Filipino culture –the religion. The Philippines belongs between two mostly Christian countries in the Asia region. Religion is a very important part of Filipinos life no matter if they are Christians or Muslims.
There are many different festivals in the Philippines which are called “fiesta”. Each part of the Philippines, including Manila, has their fiesta. Between the most known festivals belong Pahivas in Lucban on Luzon island or Mass Kara in Bacolod in Negros island. Christmas celebration in the Philippines lasts over half of the year. Christmas decorations are displayed since September and the official end is usually around the Feast of the Epiphany. In the island of Cebu, Christmas ends in the third week of January.
Another interesting event is the Guimaras Mango Festival in the island Guimaras. The festival takes place over two weeks every May and visitors can sample typical Guimaras mango which is well known around the whole world. Guimaras Island is a favoured destination by both foreign and domestic tourists. It is also well known for its white-sand beaches, pristine seas, and secluded offshore islets. Among its most popular destinations include Alubihod Bay and Guisi Beach. The island also offers its visitors the opportunity to try mountain biking or rappelling.
National Holidays in the Philippines in 2020:
January 1 – New Year´s Day
January 25 – Chinese New Year
February 25 – People Power Revolution
March 16 – Davao City Day
April 9 – Bataan and Corregidor Day/Day of Valor
April 9 – April 11 – Easter
May 1 – Labour Day
May 24 – Eid´l Fitr
June 12 – Independence Day
June 24 – Manila Day
July 31 – Eidul Adha
August 21 – Ninoy Aquino Day
August 31 – National Heroes´ Day
November 1- November 2 – All Saints’ Day, All Souls´ Day
November 30 – Bonifacio Day
December 8 – Immaculate Conception Day
December 24 – Christmas Eve
December 25 – Christmas Day
December 30 Rizal Day
December 31 – New Year´s Eve