Book excerpt: Philippines, Filipinos, Filipinas, Pinoy, Pinay, Pilipino, Pilipina. Confused? It seems everybody has a name for the inhabitants of the Philippines, including the Pinoys themselves. But don't worry. On the first page of this delightful guide to the etiquette, customs and taboos of more than 7,000 islands that is the Philippines, you'll find the best traveling tip you need to use when among the smiling and talkative people of this tropical paradise. Did we say talkative? That's an understatement! Filipinos are the most bubbly and communicative and therefore caring and friendliest people in Southeast Asia. This former U.S. colony has adopted American vocabulary, accents and lifestyles more than any other country in the region. Filipinos are also the Asian leaders in abbreviations which liberally sprinkle their conversation ("my D.I. is in the C.R."). They are also masters of inventing new words--witty and amusing--for just about everything from food to the foibles and weaknesses of their fellow countrymen. To ensure that you, the foreign resident, fleeting visitor or armchair traveler, enjoy your stay in the Philippines, we present a light hearted but practical guide to the do's and don'ts of this dynamic country. DON'T tell your best friend that he's got food stuck between his teeth. DO slouch in the back of your taxi as you leave the motel after a romantic afternoon. And DON'T throw water over the guy downstairs singing his heart out. He's just serenading his ladylove on the fourth floor. Want to know more? Then DO buy this book!