When visiting Davao City, adhering to local etiquette can help you show respect for the culture and customs. Here are some important etiquette rules to follow:

Local Etiquette Rules in Davao City

**1. Respect for Elders

• Use “Po” and “Opo”: When speaking to elders or people in authority, use “Po” at the end of sentences and “Opo” for “yes” to show respect.
• Mano Po: If visiting a Filipino household, it’s customary to perform the “Mano Po” gesture (taking the elder’s hand to your forehead) as a sign of respect.

**2. Politeness and Courtesy

• Smile and Be Friendly: A smile is universally appreciated and can help in making a good impression.
• Use Formal Address: Use “Sir” or “Ma’am” when addressing people in formal settings or when you’re unsure of their preferred form of address.

**3. Proper Dress Code

• Dress Modestly: When visiting religious sites or attending formal events, dress modestly. Avoid wearing revealing clothing.
• Smart Casual: In general settings, smart casual attire is appropriate. For business or formal occasions, dress more formally.

**4. Table Manners

• Wait to Be Seated: Wait to be invited to sit at a dining table.
• Use Utensils: Use utensils for eating, and keep your hands clean. It’s polite to wait for everyone to be served before starting your meal.

**5. Tipping

• Tip Appropriately: Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and for services. A standard tip is around 10% of the bill, but this can vary based on the service quality.

**6. Handling Food and Drink

• Don’t Refuse Hospitality: If offered food or drink, it’s polite to accept, even if just a small portion. It shows respect for the host’s hospitality.
• Avoid Public Displays of Affection: Public displays of affection, like kissing or hugging, should be minimized, especially in more traditional areas.

**7. Respect for Local Customs

• Observe Local Practices: Be mindful of local customs and practices, particularly in rural or traditional areas. Follow local norms regarding behavior and dress.

**8. Respect for Religious Practices

• Quiet in Religious Areas: Be respectful and quiet in places of worship. Remove shoes if required and dress modestly.
• No Photography: Follow signs or local guidance regarding photography in religious or sacred sites.

**9. Environmental Responsibility

• Dispose of Trash Properly: Use designated trash bins and follow recycling guidelines. Davao City is known for its cleanliness, and contributing to this helps maintain its reputation.
• Avoid Littering: Littering is frowned upon and may result in fines. Always dispose of waste properly.

**10. Public Behavior

• Keep Noise Levels Down: Be mindful of your noise levels in public places, especially in residential areas or public transport.
• Respect Personal Space: Respect personal space and avoid crowding or intrusive behavior in queues or public areas.

**11. Greeting Locals

• Use Local Greetings: Greet people with local phrases like “Kumusta?” (How are you?) and be friendly.
• Respect Local Traditions: Familiarize yourself with local traditions and customs to avoid unintentional disrespect.