Meet the Parents - Philippines Style!

When you're dating someone from the Philippines, the first meeting with her parents can feel like a big step in your relationship. Filipino culture places a strong emphasis on family, respect, and tradition, and meeting the parents is often seen as a serious and meaningful milestone. Whether you’re preparing for this meeting for the first time or have already met some of her family, understanding the etiquettes and traditions that are part of the Filipino culture can help you make a great impression.

Politeness is Key – Use 'Po' and 'Opo'

In Filipino culture, politeness is crucial. Filipinos place a high value on respect for others, especially elders. When you’re speaking to your girlfriend’s parents, you should use formal language and expressions of respect. This includes using the words po and opo—which are added to the end of sentences to convey politeness.

• Salamat po means “Thank you (respectfully)” – a simple, heartfelt "thank you" goes a long way.
• Opo is the respectful way of saying “yes” when addressing elders. So, if her parents ask you a question, be sure to respond with “opo” rather than just “oo,” which is more casual.

The use of these respectful words is one of the first things you’ll likely notice when you’re meeting Filipino family members, and it’s always appreciated.

The 'Mano' or 'Blessing' Gesture

One of the most charming and unique Filipino traditions is the mano or blessing gesture, which is a way to show respect to elders. When you meet your Filipina partner’s parents, it’s common to greet them by gently taking their hand and pressing it to your forehead. This act signifies a gesture of respect, where you're seeking their blessing. It’s both a sign of humility and a way to honor the wisdom of the older generation.

When greeting your girlfriend's parents, don't be surprised if they extend their hand toward you in the traditional mano way. This is a special way to show that you’re part of the family and honor the elders. As you get to know the family better, you may also be invited to perform this gesture with other extended family members.

Calling Parents 'Tita' and 'Tito'

In the Philippines, it’s common for people to address family members and older adults with affectionate titles that show respect. When meeting your girlfriend’s parents, you’ll likely be expected to call them Tita (aunt) and Tito (uncle). Even if they’re not literally your aunt or uncle, using these terms is an important sign of respect and politeness.

It’s also common to refer to other elders in the family or the community as Tita and Tito to create a more familial and respectful atmosphere. As you spend more time with the family, you may eventually feel comfortable using these titles for other relatives, too.

A Warm Welcome – Food and Hospitality

When you meet a Filipina’s parents, be prepared for a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Filipinos are known for their hospitality, and a visit to someone's home often involves being treated to delicious home-cooked meals. If your partner’s parents invite you to their home, don’t be surprised if they insist you have second or even third servings of food!

It’s also common for hosts to offer drinks or snacks when you arrive, and it’s polite to accept these offerings. If you’re unsure about something, don’t be afraid to ask, but always do so with respect. Filipinos are warm and generous, and they’ll appreciate your interest in their culture.

Be Yourself, but Be Respectful

While it’s important to be polite and show respect for Filipino traditions, don’t forget to be yourself! Filipinos appreciate sincerity and authenticity. Showing genuine interest in the family, asking questions, and engaging in conversations will help you form stronger connections.

However, always keep in mind that the family dynamics might be a little different than what you’re used to. Filipino families are often very close-knit, and respect for the parents and elders is central to family life. If you're meeting her parents for the first time, it might take time to get used to their traditions and their way of interacting with one another. But with a little effort and openness, you’ll soon find yourself feeling comfortable and accepted.

Gift-Giving as a Gesture of Respect

In Filipino culture, it’s customary to bring a small gift when visiting someone’s home for the first time. It doesn’t have to be extravagant; a thoughtful gesture can go a long way. A box of sweets, a bottle of wine, or even a simple token that shows you’re thinking of them will be appreciated.

If you’re unsure, you can always ask your Filipina partner what would be a nice gift to bring, and they’ll be happy to offer suggestions.

Meeting your Filipina partner’s parents can be an exciting and meaningful experience, but it’s also important to approach it with respect and sensitivity to Filipino customs. By learning key Tagalog phrases like salamat po and using the mano gesture to show respect, you’ll show that you’re serious about the relationship and ready to embrace her culture. Don’t forget to call her parents Tita and Tito, and enjoy the warmth and hospitality that Filipino families are known for.

Good luck! And remember—whether it’s your first or fiftieth time meeting her parents, the key is to be respectful, kind, and genuine.