Study in the Philippines: Language & Culture

The Philippines has three official languages: Filipino, English and Spanish. There are also more than a dozen regional languages spoken across the archipelago. 

Filipino is the collective name for the various mutually-intelligible dialects of Tagalog. English is generally the language of the business sector and is mostly spoken as an additional language, while Spanish survives as a mother tongue in some remote areas. Due to the many regional languages and dialects, Filipino serves as the language of communication between Filipinos, serving a role similar to that of Hindi in India. 

As the Philippines is so linguistically diverse, it is common for most Filipinos to be extremely fluent in three, four or even more languages. As an international student, you shouldn’t encounter many major problems if you find yourself reliant on English. 

However you communicate, Filipinos are renowned for their hospitality and their welcoming attitude to people from all over the world. You’ll find it extremely easy to make friends in the Philippines and engage in cultural exchange. Filipinos will want to know as much about your country and culture as you do about theirs. 

Religion plays a role in Filipino culture. The Philippines is a Catholic country with a notable Muslim minority. As such, it can be conservative on some social issues, like LGBT rights, but it's rapidly liberalizing in its attitudes. 

Crime remains a serious problem in the Philippines. International students and tourists are rarely targeted as most crime involves gangs and traffickers. But, as you would in most places, do keep an eye on your surroundings and don’t flash your valuables. Do also be aware that drug offences are taken extremely seriously in the Philippines. As such, you can expect a lengthy prison sentence and an unlimited fine if you’re caught with anything - even if it’s only for personal use. In the Philippines, it really isn’t worth the risk. 

Due to its geography, China and Hong Kong are popular holiday spots for international students studying in the Philippines. However, relations between Manila and Beijing are, at best, frosty and are known to go downwards at a moment’s notice. Keep an eye on the political situation and travel advice from both the Filipino government and your own home government. Despite this, lots of fascinating countries - Taiwan, South Korea, Indonesia, Thailand and Malaysia, to name but a few - are within very easy reach of the Philippines.