It is one of the common traits of being Filipino. It is a trait that every Filipino is proud of, wherever he goes. It is to make guests feel welcome. Even in the humblest home, one can expect to be treated as if one were at home. I remember my husband observing the same thing when he visited me in the Philippines a couple of years ago. He really appreciated how he was received by my family. When he had dinner with us at home, my parents were busy cooking and preparing for our guest. My aunt even set the table beautifully with an equally beautiful tablecloth set aside for the guests. She told her people here that they treat him like royalty and even she told me that we don’t have to do that since it’s just him, he’s not an actor! Well, I told him that’s how Filipinos are, hospitable. Same thing with my friend when her husband visited her. In homes, things like good or new sheets, blankets, towels, or even a nice set of household items like china are stored and kept in closets for guest use.

Hospitality in the Philippines goes as far as offering guests their own rooms, even if it means they have to sleep in another room or in the living room, which is common for Filipinos. Being friendly and making guests feel at home is an honor for a Filipino. Showing up unexpectedly at a house, you’ll find yourself served with snacks, at least because if you show up during meals, expect to be invited to join in and the family will even cook more or even buy more groceries outside, in little shops that are known as groceries.” sari-sari”, that is, a variety. Hospitality is a trait that has been passed down from one generation to the next and for more to come.