There are so many Filipinos abroad, as immigrants, residents, workers and tourists. This article is about attitudes and behavior that can help us represent our country and our people.  I've been to many countries, and I've seen many Filipinos everywhere.  I now live in Singapore and whenever I go out, I always hear someone speaking tagalog – in the grocery, bus terminals, train stations, malls, restaurants and in the church most of all. My friends are all over the world, but I can communicate with them anytime, anywhere.  Its like when I open my YM or FB its instant world conference! So as a Filipino abroad here are some guidelines.

Pride

Always pride yourself for being a Filipino.  Sometimes this can be difficult because of the negative things happening back home.  But this should not prevent us from still being proud to be a Filipino simply because it is who we really are.  Even if you change your hair color or dress up like a local in a foreign land, you are still a Filipino and truly you cannot change that.  It's the only motherland we have and it is all we got. There are many Filipinos changing their citizenship so they can avail great benefits from the foreign government, which will help augment one's personal economy.  Still this does not remove your being a Filipino by blood.  Its like Tarzan living with the gorillas, he walked and talked like a gorilla, but really he is a man!

Respect

As a Filipino entering another country, we have to be respectful of their country. Show respect by familiarizing with their culture, traditions, laws, and way of life in general.  Learn as much as you can about holidays they observe, things they consider sacred, their form of government and many others.  All these you need to know so that you act accordingly, knowing which behavior, is acceptable and not acceptable.  In case of doubt, being nice and polite is always a good conduct.

Excellence

We've heard this many times – Filipino workers are the best in the world!  Many employers prefer Filipinos.  We should always strive to be excellent anywhere we are.  We should be perceived as exactly that “Best in the World”.  Whatever your job is, or you are just on a holiday tour, always be the best you can. Being excellent open doors for promotion, salary increase, admiration and other things positive. As the old saying goes “everybody loves a winner”.

Socialize

Get to know people around you, meet new friends.  Be confident around people.  Join communities and accept invitation for get-togethers. Visit iconic spots, try the local cuisine, and explore the beauty of their country.  This way you form a network and are more educated about where you are.  It will help you feel more familiar with your surroundings. 

Tourism

Help our country promote tourism; it is probably the best we can offer to the whole world.  Our land is gifted with so much beauty.  We have Boracay voted many times as the best beach in the world.  We can enjoy the grandeur of Mt. Mayon, unlike any other mountains in the world.  You can swim with the biggest fish in the world, the Whale Sharks in Sorsogon.  We have the best dive spots in the waters of Palawan.  Where can you find Hundred Islands?  Or where in the world can you find Chocolate Hills formation? And of course how can I not mention the Mall of Asia!  The weather is perfect, the people are nice, and the prices are cheap. Of course our government shall work hard to ensure safety of everyone. When people ask about the negative news, say that it is an isolated case. 

Image

As a Filipino abroad, uplift your image.  Dress and present yourself well.  Show the world that we have class. I'm not implying that you pretend to be rich, just be pleasant and carry yourself to the best you can.  I remember an interview of former first lady Imelda Marcos, she was asked why she dresses so gallantly.  She said, she wants to uplift the image we Filipinos have in the world.  Sure we don't have her money to afford such elegance, but in our personal capacity we should strive to have a good presentation. Speak well, hold your head high, take care of your personal hygiene, wear clean clothes and shoes. Look respectful and dignified.  Show people –this is how a Filipino looks like.  

Give

You should contribute to the country where you are.  Give a part of yourself.  You may volunteer to a local group.  Buy their product.  Join in their celebration.  Contribute to charity.  Also give help to someone in need, especially new Filipino entrants, who will need your guidance for him or her to settle anew.

Enhance

With living abroad come mixed emotions – the excitement of a new adventure, happiness for the prospect to earning (usually) dollars, sadness for leaving your love ones or boredom because there's not much to do around.  It is normal to have mixed feelings, just focus on the positive ones.  Use your being away to enhance your self and your career.  Use everyday as a learning experience.  In your career take as much learning, aside of course from salary, as you can. At home learn home-making skills to improve your life. Join a gym, learn a new sport or an instrument, read a lot, pick up a hobby or a hubby if you are single and available.

In summary I recommend you present yourself abroad with prestige.