The people of the Philippines are predominantly ethnic Malays, with genetic sprinklings of Spanish, Arab and Chinese. Except the isolated hill tribes and Muslim sectors of the population, Spanish and American culture is very obvious throughout the country.

Central to Filipinos' dealings with people is the concept of bayanihan, which is about camaraderie and kinship. This is the basis for the Filipinos' famous hospitality and warm welcome, a phenomenon that many visitors to the country remark upon.

A Filipino's family is defined quite broadly and there can often be a dense network of godparents and quasi-relatives who although not related by blood, or even marriage, are considered part of the family. Linked to this concept is the highly valued notion of pakikisama (group loyalty).

There is a tendency toward emotion and expressing of one's feelings that is distinctly Latin in temperament as opposed to the more reserved Asian nature.

Outside of the cities, there is a general attitude of bahala na (whatever happens) governing the opening hours of shops and the punctuality of scheduled transport.

The chief legacy of Spanish rule is Christianity, evidenced by the fact that 83 per cent of the population are active members of the Roman Catholic Church. The Philippines is the only Christian country in Asia.

As with many cultures, music (which includes traditional music) and leisure activities are an important aspect of the Filipino society. Various sports are also enjoyed, including boxing, basketball, badminton, billiards, football (soccer) and ten-pin bowling being popular games in the country.

Traditional Filipino Martial Arts, such as Eskrima, had secretly been banned by the Spanish during the three-hundred year colonial period, but have been revived through an interest in learning pre-Hispanic culture. Hence, Filipino Martial Arts had in the twentieth century been made compulsory to learn for all members of the Filipino Armed Forces and the Police and many clubs exist.