In the Philippines there is often a conflict between telling the truth and saving “face”. There are also issues of being shy, of not offending others by saying something confronting, and of course being concerned about what others think. This can clash with the Australian way of being blunt and direct by preference. How… Continue reading Filipina ladies – Telling the truth or saving face

  How do you cope as a “rich man in the Philippines”? Yes, like it or not, that’s what you are here. That’s how the locals see you and regardless of what you say or feel, they will always see you that way, and you will encounter the ugly side of social climbing. So deal… Continue reading Social climbing in the Philippines

  Do Filipinos care what others think? Do many like to be seen as a bit higher up the social ladder than they probably are right now? You betcha they do! And it seems to be increasing, with the Facebook-generation who give a high priority to uploading daily “selfies”. When it happens, you can say… Continue reading Maarte – Showing off, Filipino Style

  If you’ve visited the Philippines as part of an Australian Filipina relationship, no doubt someone has called you “kuya” or “ate” (pronounced like “ah-tay”) if you are a girl. You’ve probably asked about it and had it explained to you. But there’s a bit more to it, and it’s actually quite charming and reminiscent… Continue reading Ate and Kuya? Family acceptance in the Philippines.

  In the Philippines it is illegal to operate marriage agencies. The anti “mail order bride” laws are to protect the ladies of the Philippines from exploitation. Have you ever wondered why? It is illegal to operate any matchmaking services with the intention of matching up Filipina ladies and foreigners for the purposes of marriage.… Continue reading Anti Mail Order Bride Laws in Philippines