July 06, 2021
Different countries mean different cultures. When going to a foreign place, it is always a good thing to research about its traditions, the way of life, and most importantly the laws that their people abide to. In anywhere you go, it is important to respect everyone as you are in their territory, otherwise it can get you to trouble.
For example, there may be gestures that are acceptable in your country but it is the complete opposite in some. For foreigners and expats staying in the Philippines, we guide you to gestures that Filipinos in general may find offensive. Here are some of them:
1. Pointing finger to someone
(Photo grabbed from onyxtruth.com)
It is considered rude to point your index finger to someone, especially in Asian, American, and European cultures. When you motion others to call people, say their name respectfully. Usually, pointing fingers are done to objects, but not to humans. Never point fingers to a stranger because it may cause confusion and it may lead to an altercation.
2. Catcalling
(Photo grabbed from gainesvillescene.com)
Catcalling means a “loud whistle or a comment in sexual nature made by a man to a passing woman.” It is never acceptable in any countries, as it is a form of sexual harassment. Unwanted comments by a stranger towards a woman makes the latter uncomfortable. In Quezon City, an ordinance is passed that making disparaging remarks can merit a fine and worse, imprisonment.
3. Wolf-whistling
Photo grabbed from theguardian.com
As another form of sexual harassment, wolf-whistling is the act of a man whistling with a sexual tone towards a woman. This form of street harassment is also unacceptable as it asserts domination over another gender. It is very offensive especially to women.
4. Curling up index finger
(Photo grabbed from cal.skypeenglishclasses.com)
Curling the index finger to motion someone to come to you is definitely unacceptable to Asian countries. This curling of finger is only used for dogs, thus when using it, it implies inferiority to the person directed to. Do not use this especially in a workplace, no matter what your position is. Treat people like humans, do it in a manner that will not cause offense as there are many other ways to call the attention of someone without offending them.
5. Middle Finger
(Photo grabbed from sfweekly.com)
Raising the middle finger up facing another is a rude gesture in any other countries. It’s normally done in the middle of a heated argument. This obscene hand gesture should never be used against elders as it is a form of grave disrespect.
6. Back-of-the-head slap
(Photo grabbed from mikeweatherly.com)
A slap to the back of the head of someone is a gesture that you should never do especially in a professional setting. It means that the person you are doing the act to is “stupid.” Even when it is done in a joking manner, it is not acceptable because it is also a form of humiliation, especially when seen by other people. Any form of intentional hitting is considered harassment.
7. Staring
(Screencap grabbed from youtube.com)
Never stare at someone especially when done in a manner that makes people uncomfortable. Staring at someone may mean that you are thinking of something rude against the other person, so avoid doing that especially when you do not mean anything, more so if you are a stranger.
8. Taking photos when sleeping
(Photo grabbed from peoplesleepinginpublictransport.tumblr.com)
Taking photos of someone without their permission is rude and can also be a form of privacy invasion. Better yet, ask someone politely if you could do so. Never take photos of people sleeping or eating in public places because it might get you into trouble.
Are there any more things that you think can be offensive to people in the Philippines? Share it with us below!
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