7 Things you should never do in the Philippines 🇵🇭

Summary

This video script outlines seven crucial rules for foreigners in the Philippines, especially on election day. It advises against buying or consuming alcohol before or after elections, campaigning, and engaging in adultery, which are all illegal. It also emphasizes the importance of maintaining a respectful demeanor, having an onward ticket, carrying cash due to unreliable card readers and ATMs, and respecting queues. The script highlights the cultural norms and legal implications to ensure a pleasant stay in the country.

Takeaways

• 📅 Never buy or consume alcohol the day of or the day before an election in the Philippines as it is a criminal offense with potential imprisonment.
• 🚫 Avoid campaigning the day before an election in the Philippines to prevent legal trouble and respect the cooling-off period.
• ❤️ Refrain from romantic involvement with a married Filipina to avoid the crime of adultery, which can lead to imprisonment for both parties.
• 🤬 Do not get confrontational or raise your voice in public in the Philippines, as it is considered a loss of face and can lead to embarrassment and escalation.
• 🛫 Ensure you have an onward ticket when traveling to the Philippines to avoid being denied boarding by airlines due to visa requirements.
• 💵 Always carry cash in the Philippines as credit card readers and ATMs may sometimes be unavailable, causing inconvenience in emergencies.
• 🤔 Be aware that attempting to cut in line is considered rude and could potentially be criminalized in the Philippines.
• 👴 Show respect to the elderly, handicapped, and pregnant individuals who are given special exceptions in line in the Philippines.
• 🛂 Be mindful of the legal implications for foreigners when visiting the Philippines, including the prohibition of certain behaviors like adultery and public confrontation.
• 🏠 If you are a foreigner, consider the cultural and legal differences when interacting with locals and avoid actions that could be seen as disrespectful.
• 👍 Appreciate the Filipino culture's emphasis on respect and order, and adapt your behavior to maintain harmony during your stay.

Q & A

Why is it illegal to buy or consume alcohol in the Philippines on election day or the day before?

It is illegal due to a law that prohibits the sale, purchase, distribution, or consumption of alcohol to maintain order and prevent any influence on voters' decisions during the election period.

What is the potential punishment for violating the alcohol ban during election times in the Philippines?

Violators could face imprisonment for one to six years, with no probation available for this offense.

What is the 'cooling off' period mentioned in the script regarding election campaigning in the Philippines?

The 'cooling off' period is a time during which campaigning is not allowed, specifically the day before the election, to allow voters to reflect on their choices without further influence.

Can foreigners campaign in the Philippines, and what are the potential legal consequences?

Foreigners are generally not allowed to campaign in the Philippines as it is against the law, and attempting to do so could result in significant legal trouble.

What is considered illegal regarding romantic relationships with married individuals in the Philippines?

Engaging in adultery with a married person is a crime in the Philippines, and both parties involved can face imprisonment.

Is there a difference in the legal consequences for adultery committed by a man with an unmarried woman in the Philippines?

While adultery with a married person is a crime, having an affair with an unmarried woman is not illegal unless the man is financially supporting her.

Why should foreigners avoid getting confrontational in the Philippines?

Getting confrontational can be seen as a loss of face and is culturally inappropriate in the Philippines, potentially leading to embarrassment and escalation of the situation.

What is the importance of having an onward ticket when traveling to the Philippines as a foreigner?

An onward ticket is crucial to show that you have plans to leave the country before your visa or visa on arrival period expires, which can prevent denial of boarding by airlines.

Why is it recommended to always carry cash in the Philippines, even for foreigners?

Credit card readers may sometimes not accept cards, and ATMs can run out of cash, making it necessary to have cash on hand for emergencies and transactions.

What cultural practice in the Philippines allows certain individuals to bypass queues in stores?

Elderly people, handicapped individuals, and pregnant women are given special exceptions to bypass queues as a form of privilege and respect.

Has there been any legislative attempt to make queue-cutting a criminal offense in the Philippines?

There was a proposed legislation that aimed to make cutting in line at certain public places a crime, but it is unclear whether it was passed.