Dating in the Philippines is not an easy endeavour. merging traditional practices with modern dating trends, known as “Ligawan”. This courtship ritual begins with men expressing their romantic intentions through thoughtful gestures and gifts, while also seeking the blessing of the woman’s family.
You will quickly realise this is a pivotal step in the process. Family involvement extends beyond observation. Be prepared for the family to be involved. As they hold the authority to endorse or oppose your new relationship.
Despite the cultural diversity across the Philippines’, the basics of dating are consistent. Traditional Filipino women often uphold conservative values, including preserving their virginity until marriage. Going out on a date is also part of Filipino culture, men typically cover dating expenses, such as meals and activities, while seeking the parents’ permission is customary and signifies respect for the family.
The beginnings of courtship
A prospective couple will go on a number of dates together before entering into a relationship. During this time, it is not unusual for the female to be dating multiple men. The first move should be made by the man. They need to show courage, and put in effort to initiate contact with their potential partner.
Typically, Filipino women wait for the guy to express his feelings. This can be through initiating a conversation, or through his actions. Anything that shows that he wants to be in a relationship with the girl he likes.
Courtship commences when the guy asks for the girl’s approval to court her. During this time, a guy will do his best to impress the girl along with her parents and family members. This is where issues may arise. Partners may not meet the expectations of the family, or there may be communication issues. Either way, navigating the courtship process is rarely easy.
Most women prolong the initial stage of courtship. They want time together to get to know his personality, and character, and to know if he has good intentions. When a guy attempts to win the heart of a girl, the results may vary. Some girls may readily accept the guy’s advances, while others may take more time to decide. The courtship concludes if the girl agrees, officially establishing their relationship. If not, then better luck next time.
What does a man do to win over their romantic interest?
The dating process can be a very anxious time. You may feel as if your love interest does not reciprocate the feelings you have for them. You may even feel like you are not worthy, and the person you are pursuing can do better.
Either way, you need to push through. These are the tests you need to pass to prove you have the confidence and drive. Now we’ll look into some important aspects of Filipino culture. These are some of the things people will look for in a partner.
1. Doing Household Chores
Filipino men are known to be strong, masculine, and strive for good moral character. As we mentioned earlier, having a good relationship with your partner’s parents is paramount in the dating process. Small things such as asking the parents if it’s okay to visit their daughter are all seen as a gesture of respect. This is a great way to get to know your partner, as well as the family members and culture around their home. This is also the perfect time to show your character. To show the family you have sincere intentions, and that you’re willing to work hard and contribute to the household. Doing these things can help you easily win the approval of her family. You will begin to build a good image and strengthen your relationship with them.
2. Offering Presents or Special Things
Part of courting someone is to give the person something special to show how you feel. Doing something as simple as giving her fresh flowers can brighten her day. You don’t even need to spend money to express how you feel. Simply preparing a drink she enjoys, or her favourite food, is enough.
They say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, this is as applicable with women. They love to have meals prepared for them by their partner. Aside from the foods, you could try expressing yourself through your creative side. You could try making her a card, or customising a pillow case, or coffee mug with a nice message.
In both Western countries and Filipino culture, it’s common for guys to give flowers and chocolates when they’re courting someone. Surprising your partner, especially on special occasions like birthdays and holidays, means a lot to them.
3. Showing Affection
Filipino men are more silent and non-expressive compared to their female counterparts. If this is you, then don’t let it hold you back. You can still express how you feel toward your partner with your actions.
Simple gestures such as escorting your partner home from work go a long way. If your partner becomes ill, remain by their side. Help nurse them back to good health, and take care of any errands they may need. Showing affection can be through something as simple as holding hands. Doing anything to show your sincerity toward your partner
4. Being Religious
This may be a controversial step, but the reality is the majority in the country are religious. The country has a wide range of belief systems, which this may be an issue to face when picking a partner.
Most Filipinos are practising Catholics. Most would want a partner who hold the same beliefs. This allows for a more harmonious relationship. It also allows for them to easily integrate religious practices into their routine.
To Set or Organised an Arranged Marriage
Individuals have an important expression of freedom in being able to choose their own marriage mate. But some Filipino parents may not directly chose your partner, but may greatly influence your choice. The parents may know of a son or daughter of their family friends.
The parents may actively push for their child to establish a relationship with the other party. Although it’s common for parents to be involved in relationships, it doesn’t always lead to the healthiest partnerships.
Either way, don’t worry: this kind of marriage setup normally happens in rural areas of the country. This is especially on the island of Mindanao, in which a large part of the population is Muslim.
As time goes on modern Filipinos are increasingly influenced by the west. So marriage and dating practice continue to mimic those of the western world.
The Importance of the Dating Process
The dating process in the Philippines offers men the chance to display their character, values, and perseverance. Though this dating process may be tough at times, you need to pass those tests to show you are sincere. Parents have put so much time and energy into raising their child. Parents want to see that you appreciate your partner as much as they do.
It may seem like a burden having to gain parents approval, but it is a way you can show your respect to them. To show them they can be comfortable with you and show that their child will be in good hands.
The dating process can be difficult but it is worth it. Being with a good partner who is invested in the relationship can make life a lot easier. It also can be very fullfilling to complete the journey through life with someone you feel very connected with.