How to Make a Good First Impression on a Filipina’s Parents

Making a good first impression can make or break your date.

Are you ready to meet your Filipina girlfriend’s folks?

In Filipino culture, parents play a significant role in their children’s lives and decisions. And so, in dating, Filipinos often seek their parents’ approval before they can officially date someone or move forward in marriage.

This only means you must impress the parents first if you want to build a life with a Filipina.

With Filipino parents and the man their daughter is dating, first impressions tend to last. And who would want to make a negative one? Not you, right?

If you want to win over the people who mean the most to your Filipina girlfriend, here’s how to make a good first impression.

What to Wear:

Appearance matters.

Make no mistake. Filipino parents may be hospitable and kind, but they can be slightly judgmental toward the person dating their daughter. Your personality matters at the end of the day, but as humans, we can’t help but base everything on what we see first.

So, your clothing makes a strong statement about your personality, values, attitude, and more.

Wear something that sends a message that you’re serious about their daughter. Put on your best shirt—something in between casual and formal.

What to Bring:

Don’t come empty-handed. Everyone loves getting gifts, especially Filipinos.

It doesn’t have to be anything extravagant or expensive. A simple and thoughtful gift is enough.

Most men would bring food or sweet treats, but if you want to make a good first impression on her parents, bring something they’ll appreciate. Just do some digging on their likes, hobbies, and interests to win their hearts.

A little extra effort can make all the difference.

How to Behave:

Never forget to mano the second you meet her parents as a greeting and a sign of respect.

To do this, say “mano po.” And when they offer the back of their hand, receive it and tap it lightly on your forehead.

Also, try not to be a killjoy when you meet them. For instance, when they offer you food or alcoholic beverages, accept them. However, make sure not to get too drunk.

Join in the fun, such as singing karaoke, even when you don’t have the voice of an angel. This is the best way to let Filipino parents know you’re serious about your intentions, as you’re willing to get down and be slightly silly in order to build a relationship with them.

What to Talk About:

It’s best to keep things fun and lighthearted, otherwise, you’ll give them a poor first impression. Avoid polarizing topics that can lead to heated arguments, such as money, politics, and religion.

Moreover, be casual and give them time to warm up to you. Don’t try too hard to impress them by blurting out how you’re the chief executive of a company or a businessman.

Even if you intend to show them your ability to provide for their daughter, nobody likes a braggart.

Wait for them to ask about your achievements, and keep the conversation going from there.

Do You Have What It Takes to Be a Filipina’s Man?

Dating a Filipina can be much more challenging than dating women of other nationalities. Not only do you need to impress her, but you also need to win her parents’ hearts.

However, the problem is that they don’t easily let men go near their daughters without going through them first.

So, prepare for this obstacle by learning the tips to make a good first impression. This way, you’ll have what it takes.