What’s Normal in the Philippines Might Shock the World
We Filipinos are proud of our culture, but let’s be honest—some habits we think are harmless here can raise eyebrows (or worse, get you fined) in progressive countries like Japan, Canada, or Singapore.
This isn’t about shaming—it’s about awareness. If you dream of traveling or living abroad, you need to know these 10 Filipino habits that are totally acceptable here but NOT elsewhere.
✅ 1. Filipino Time – Being Late Like It’s Nothing
Running 30 minutes late is almost expected here. In Germany or Japan, it’s considered rude.
👉 Fix It: Start valuing punctuality now. Use this productivity planner to stay on schedule.
✅ 2. Public Smoking & Littering
Throwing trash out the car window or smoking in public? Common here. In Singapore, it can cost you ₱35,000 in fines.
👉 Go green with an eco-friendly starter kit:
✅ 3. Road Chaos – Counterflow and Beating the Red Light
Here it’s survival; abroad it’s a crime.
👉 Keep your driving safe and hands-free with this car phone mount.
✅ 4. Catcalling & Gender Stereotypes
Street harassment or sexist jokes? Still happens here. Abroad, this can land you in serious trouble.
👉 Read “Invisible Women” to understand gender bias.
✅ 5. Cash-Only Mindset (When the World Is Cashless)
Progressive countries barely use cash anymore.
👉 Stay safe while transitioning with an RFID-blocking wallet
✅ 6. Not Flushing Toilets or Leaving Wet Floors
Sounds crazy, but in many public CRs here, flushing or cleaning up after yourself is optional. Abroad? You’ll get glares—or worse, fines.
👉 A travel hygiene kit is a must for Pinoys abroad.
✅ 7. Talking Loudly in Public
Whether on the jeep, train, or phone, we Filipinos love to chat loudly. In countries like Japan, this is seen as impolite and disruptive.
👉 Keep calls private with noise-canceling earbuds.
✅ 8. Cutting Lines (Even Small Ones)
At ATMs or food counters, many Pinoys still try to squeeze in. Abroad? Zero tolerance.
👉 Avoid embarrassment by being patient—or bring a pocket book like Atomic Habits while waiting.
✅ 9. Blasting Music Without Headphones
On buses or in public places, playing music out loud is common here. In other countries, it’s considered disrespectful to others’ space.
👉 Use Bluetooth earbuds for personal listening.
✅ 10. Ignoring Pedestrian Rules
Jaywalking is almost a sport in the Philippines. Abroad? It’s a hefty fine and considered a major safety violation.
👉 Protect yourself with reflective gear for safe walking/biking.
FINAL THOUGHTS:
It’s Not Just About Traveling—It’s About Respect
These habits feel harmless, but they reflect bigger issues: discipline, respect, and awareness. The good news? We can unlearn them and start acting like the world-class citizens we aim to be.
✅ Which one do you see the most? Let’s talk in the comments.
And if this opened your eyes, share it so more Filipinos become globally ready.