Culture and Holidays in the Philippines

Languages

The Philippines is a multilingual workplace environment, with English, Filipino, and regional languages used across industries. While English dominates corporate settings, Filipino is widely spoken in government and business sectors, particularly in Luzon and Metro Manila. Workplaces often operate in a bilingual or multilingual manner, depending on the industry and region.  

In corporate sectors like IT and finance, English is the primary language for communication, documentation, and client interactions, especially in multinational companies (MNCs). Meetings, presentations, and official emails are generally conducted in English, though employees may use Filipino or regional languages informally.  

In government offices and public sector organizations, Filipino and regional languages are commonly used for internal communication and documentation. The Philippines recognizes Filipino and English as official languages, with regions prioritizing their local languages — such as Cebuano in Cebu, Ilocano in Northern Luzon, and Hiligaynon in Western Visayas.  

The manufacturing and retail sectors rely on local languages for daily operations, especially in labor-intensive industries. Factories, warehouses, and construction sites primarily use Filipino or regional languages, while management-level communication may be in English.  

In customer service, language use depends on clientele. English and Filipino are common for domestic and international customer support, while many companies also hire speakers of Cebuano, Ilocano, Hiligaynon, and other regional languages to cater to regional customers.

Workplace norms and professional etiquette

Workplace culture in the Philippines blends strong traditional values with a growing adoption of modern business practices. Respect for hierarchy, loyalty, and interpersonal harmony are central themes, though global companies often introduce more collaborative norms. Business communication typically strikes a balance between formality and approachability.

Workplace hierarchy and authority

While leadership typically drives key decisions, employees are encouraged to follow structured channels of communication and show deference to senior roles. Teamwork is common, but managers are looked to for final approval and strategic direction.

Email and phone etiquette

Business emails and phone calls are expected to be courteous and well-structured. Emails usually begin with a polite greeting and end with a formal sign-off such as “Best regards” or “Respectfully yours.” On calls, brief small talk is considered polite before transitioning into business topics.

Meeting etiquette and punctuality

Punctuality is appreciated, though meetings may start a few minutes late. Small talk is typical at the beginning of meetings to build rapport. Handshakes are standard in formal introductions, and addressing colleagues with honorifics like “Sir” or “Ma’am” is still widely practiced.

Professional dress code

In corporate offices and professional services, business attire is expected — such as collared shirts, slacks, and conservative dresses. In BPOs, startups, or tech settings, business casual or smart casual is often acceptable.

National holidays

Employees in the Philippines are entitled to the following paid holidays: 

• Jan. 1: New Year’s Day 
• Eid al-Fitr   
• Maundy Thursday 
• Good Friday 
• Eid al-Adha 
• Apr. 9: Araw ng Kagitingan 
• May 1: Labor Day 
• Jun. 12: Independence Day 
• Last day of August: National Heroes Day 
• Nov. 30: Bonifacio Day 
• Dec. 25: Christmas Day 
• Dec. 30: Rizal Day 

Every year the government announces several special holidays, which are unpaid days off and may change from year to year. These might include any of the following: 

• Chinese New Year 
• Black Saturday 
• Aug. 21: Ninoy Aquino Day 
• Oct. 31: All Saints’ Eve 
• Nov. 1: All Saints’ Day 
• Dec. 8: Feast of the Immaculate Conception of Mary 
• Dec. 24: Christmas Eve 
• Dec. 31: Last Day of the Year 

The Philippines recognizes holidays that are categorized either as regular holidays or special (non-working) days. 

Holidays that fall on a weekend are moved to the next regular workday. Employees required to work on a regular holiday are entitled to 200% of their daily wage for the first 8 hours.