Maundy Thursday

📣 Traveler notes

The Philippines is an archipelago of over 7,100 islands in Southeast Asia with a diverse cultural landscape influenced by Malay, Spanish, and American traditions.

• Holy Week (including Maundy Thursday) is a major holiday period with significant travel to provinces.
• Christmas and New Year are major celebrations starting as early as September.
• Observe local dress codes; modest attire is recommended outside of tourist areas.
• Be aware of sensitive political topics, particularly regarding the Martial Law era and the war on drugs.
• Respect religious practices; do not attempt to proselytize or show disrespect toward sacred sites.
• Avoid purchasing products made from endangered species or engaging in activities involving animal cruelty.
• Filipinos are generally hospitable and polite. Respect for elders is paramount; use appropriate titles and avoid challenging their views. While English is widely spoken, locals appreciate efforts to learn Tagalog. Be mindful of 'Filipino time' (a relaxed view of punctuality) in social settings. In dining, avoid using your left hand for eating or handling items, as it is traditionally considered unclean. Respect local customs regarding personal space and public behavior; while the country is LGBT-tolerant, public displays of affection are often viewed conservatively.