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GIFT GIVING IN
PHILIPPINES* - Gift Giving Etiquette
BUSINESS GIFT GIVING /
PERSONAL GIFT GIVING
General Guidelines
- Giving gifts,
particularly flowers and food, is especially popular in Filipino business
culture. Moreover, exchanging gifts is an essential step in solidifying
business ties.
Once a
contract has been signed, prepare to give your new partners a gift of
greater value. These gifts include dinner at a fine restaurant, whiskey
for men, and perfume for women. Whatever you decide, avoid being so
extravagant in your selection that your gift is perceived as a bribe.
When
selecting wrapping paper for a Filipino recipient, you may use any colour
you wish, which makes the Philippines somewhat of an anomaly among other
Asian countries.
When invited
to a Filipino home, bring a gift of flowers, candy or chocolates. Another
option is to arrange to have these items sent before your arrival. Avoid
bringing alcohol or heavier foods as these gifts may imply that the
hospitality is inadequate. Allowances are made, however, for a specialty
dish or food that is unique to your home region. Be sure to send a
thank-you note afterwards; another small “thank-you gift” is also a
thoughtful gesture.
At Christmas,
you will be expected to give a small, modest gift to practically everyone
you encounter in a business context. This includes everyone who works for
you and all service personnel you depend upon regularly.
When you
receive a gift, follow the Asian custom by not opening it in front of the
giver. Instead, wait until you are alone.
During
certain family events, particularly baptisms, it is customary to toss a
handful of small coins to any children present.
At weddings,
guests will sometimes use pins to attach money--typically bills in
small denominations--to the clothing of the bride and groom.
Appreciated Gifts
- a gift item
related to the country or city you inhabit
- fine pens
- stationary
imprinted with your company logo
- dinner at a
fine restaurant
- whiskey [for
men only]
- perfume
*Peru Business
Etiquette - Gift Giving. Executive Planet. 09 Aug. 2004
<http://www.executiveplanet.com/business-culture-in/132444010609.html>. |
Above: The flag of Philippines
Global Gift Guide
--- Gifts we recommend ---
Chocolate Globes
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The World Globe Pen
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World Cube Paperweight
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