When in the Philippines: Act Like One of the Locals

When you backpack in the Philippines, especially in Manila, here are the things you can do to be one of the locals.

Ride a public jeepney

When you ride a public jeepney and you’re somewhere in the middle and payment is passed to you, take it and pass it next to you until it reached the driver.
When you reached your destination, just shout “Para!”
If you’re more adventurous, cling to the bar outside of the back of the jeepney.
When talking to people older than you, use “po” after a phrase. It still is acceptable even if you’re using an English phrase like “Thank you po” or “How much po?”
Eat Philippines’ famous street foods like balut (developing duck egg), isaw (barbecued chicken intestines), banana cue, or fish balls. You can have a couple of them in less than a dollar.

Banana cue and other street foods

When you bumped into someone you know, just nod and smile. Sometimes you don’t need to say anything unless you haven’t seen each other in a long time.
If you’re smoking, buy a stick (not a pack) of cigarette when you see cigarette vendors in the street.
If you don’t have a lighter, borrow one from the people smoking near you.
Buy a peso of snack or junk food in a sari-sari store (variety store).

Buy in one of these ari-sari stores

Sing using a videoke.
Play basketball on the streets. Of course, look for a basketball ring first.
If you’re a Catholic and you pass by in front of a church, do not forget to make a sign of the cross.
Eat a meal using your hands.
Eat rice every meal.
When you shop at a flea market, do not forget the art of haggling. Say the word “tawad po” which means “discount po.”

Do not forget to haggle over the price