Body Language
◾If Filipinos don't understand a question, they open their mouths. Raised eyebrows signify recognition and agreement.
◾Laughter may convey pleasure or embarrassment; it is commonly used to relieve tension.
◾"Yes" is signified by a jerk of the head upward. "No" is signified by a jerk of the head down. Since the Filipinos rarely say no, the non-verbal sign for "no" is sometimes accompanied by a verbal yes, which would still indicate "no."
◾Staring is considered rude and could be misinterpreted as a challenge, but Filipinos may stare or even touch foreigners, especially in areas where foreigners are rarely seen.
◾To Filipinos, standing with your hands on your hips means you are angry.
◾Never curl your index finger back and forth (to beckon). This is an insult.
◾To indicate two of something, raise your ring and pinkie fingers.
◾To beckon, extend arm, palm down, moving fingers in scratching motion. Touch someone's elbow lightly to attract attention. Do not tap on the shoulder.
◾"Eyebrow flash" -- a quick lifting of eyebrows -- is a Filipino greeting.