Filipina Maids
The Tagalog word for 'maid' is katulong, which literally means 'helper.' (The Tagalog word for 'help' is tulong.) In the Philippines, live-in maids are common among the upper classes and are considered part of the family.
Filipina maids follow instructions well. But bear in mind that because they are from a different culture, you have to make clear to them what you want them to do.
An Asian lady once complained to us: "Do you know what my Filipina maid did when I told her to cook the fish? She marinaded it! Who would think of marinading fish before cooking?"
It's a cultural thing. There are "common sense" things that you've always assumed as natural or unnatural, but really aren't universal.
Cash may be incentive enough for some, but the best way to ensure that your Filipina maid does a good job is to show your concern for her. Often ask if she's eaten (Kumain ka na ba?), check if there's a problem (May problema ba?), ask if she's fine (Okey ka lang ba?), bring her a souvenir from your trip — these are considered thoughtful gestures by Filipinos and will make her feel good about helping you out.
And don't forget to thank her:
An Asian lady once complained to us: "Do you know what my Filipina maid did when I told her to cook the fish? She marinaded it! Who would think of marinading fish before cooking?"
It's a cultural thing. There are "common sense" things that you've always assumed as natural or unnatural, but really aren't universal.
Cash may be incentive enough for some, but the best way to ensure that your Filipina maid does a good job is to show your concern for her. Often ask if she's eaten (Kumain ka na ba?), check if there's a problem (May problema ba?), ask if she's fine (Okey ka lang ba?), bring her a souvenir from your trip — these are considered thoughtful gestures by Filipinos and will make her feel good about helping you out.
And don't forget to thank her:
Salamat.
Thank you.
Salamat sa tulong mo.
Thank you for your help.
Ito ay para sa iyo.
This is for you.
*Make sure whoever prepares your meals is screened for hepatitis.
Otherwise, be vigilant about handwashing.
Thank you.
Salamat sa tulong mo.
Thank you for your help.
Ito ay para sa iyo.
This is for you.
*Make sure whoever prepares your meals is screened for hepatitis.
Otherwise, be vigilant about handwashing.