Tipping is traditional. English is the business language and spoken widely. The country has international direct dial phone and facsimile service, cellphone sites, internet and e-mail facilities, and worldwide express delivery service. The postal system is efficient. Most national dailies are in English.
Cable TV is available in many hotels.
Foreign publications are sold at major hotels, malls, and bookstores in Metro Manila and key cities. Some private companies hold Saturday office from 9 a.m. to 12 noon. Most shopping malls, department stores and supermarkets are open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. There are 24-hour convenience stores and drugstores. Warmer garments are needed for mountain regions.