Table Manners 101

Filipino Table Manners (according to Wikipedia)

• If you are invited to a Filipino's house, it is best to arrive 15 to 30 minutes later than when invited for a large party.
• Compliment the hostess on the house.
• Shoes must always be removed before entering the home.
• Wait to be asked before moving into the dining room or helping yourself to food.
• Wait to be told where to sit. There may be a seating plan.
• It is polite to wait for the host to invite you to start eating before doing so.
• Meals are often served family- style or are buffets where you serve yourself.
• A fork and spoon are the typical eating utensils.
• Hold the fork in the left hand and use it to guide food to the spoon in your right hand.
• Whether you should leave some food on your plate or finish everything is a matter of personal preference rather than culture-driven.
• Do not chew loud enough for others to hear.
• Chew with your mouth closed.
• Lightly burping after a meal is acceptable. It's polite to say "Salamat" or "Thank You" after doing so.
• If offered more food, it's important to accept. Even if it is just a small amount. Turning down anything offered is seen as arrogant.