Dos and don'ts in the Philippines (2004 ed)

It is said that the Filipino's behaviour is governed by hiya.

It defies translation but it is loosely taken to mean shame.

Hiya is the uncomfortable feeling experienced when one performs a socially unacceptable action.

Like their Asian counterparts, Filipinos fear "losing face" and will always carefully consider what others think.

Breaking social taboos like taking drugs, failing in school, getting drunk, having a mistress, or getting pregnant before marriage are kept as secrets to preserve their dignity.

He or she will be embarrassed to face family, neighbours, and friends if the secret gets out.

To be called walang hiya, one who consciously performs a socially unacceptable act to offend others, is considered an insult.

So don't use that phrase when visiting the birthplace of Asia's most welcoming people as well as their most talkative! And do read this well illustrated book.