In the Philippines, children are
taught to respect their elders. One way of expressing respect is by
"kissing" the right hand of an older person when you greet them.
Actually, you don't really kiss that
hand. You just bow a bit, and gently take the older person's right hand
with your right hand, and move it towards your own forehead. Sometimes,
it's the back of their hand that touches your forehead. More often,
it's the knuckles.Mano means "right" (opposite of "left") and po is a word (?) you say to show respect.
Usually,
it's the kids who execute the "Mano Po" although adults will also do
this especially when visiting their parents, or the parents of their
girlfriend.
The older person will sometimes wave his hand as he makes the sign of
the cross. It's like he (or she) is giving you his blessing.
Some parents will tell their young kids: "Bless ka kay Lolo" or "Bless, Bless..."
