Titles & Address Etiquette in Philippines

Use honorifics like “Sir,” “Ma’am,” or “Ate” and “Kuya” when speaking to strangers, elders, or service staff, and switch to first names only after being invited to do so. In more formal settings, many Filipinos also use professional titles such as “Attorney,” “Doctor,” or “Engineer,” and showing this respect in address is a normal part of everyday politeness.