Fast food chains are a staple in modern urban life. Whether you’re in Manila, Tokyo, New York, or Paris, grabbing a quick meal at McDonald’s or Jollibee is a shared experience across cultures. But while the food may be similar, the behaviors around cleanliness and etiquette can vary drastically.
One topic that sparks debate among casual observers and social commentators is the simple act of cleaning up after oneself in fast food chains.
In the Philippines, this topic often stirs controversy, especially when compared to practices abroad. While some argue it’s the job of staff to clean tables, others believe it’s a matter of respect and shared responsibility. But what’s the norm, and how does the Philippines measure up against other countries?
Cleaning culture in the Philippines
In many fast food restaurants across the Philippines, particularly Jollibee, Mang Inasal, or McDonald’s, it is still common to see customers leaving trays, wrappers, and drink cups on the tables. Some justify this by pointing to the presence of “bus boys” or cleaning staff whose job is to clear tables.
As Filipinos, we’ve noticed that many of us tend to leave trays, cups, and wrappers on the table after eating in fast food restaurants, and I think it stems from a mix of cultural habits and expectations.
Growing up, we were taught to be hospitable and service-oriented, and this mindset often shapes how we behave in public spaces: we expect to be served, not necessarily to serve ourselves.
There’s also a belief that by not cleaning up, we’re actually helping provide jobs for staff whose responsibility is to maintain cleanliness in the restaurant. It’s not that we’re being disrespectful; it’s just a deeply ingrained part of how we see roles in customer service.
Another factor is that we rarely see signs or reminders asking us to return our trays or clean up, so the behavior isn’t reinforced. On top of that, in many Filipino homes, especially those with household helpers, kids grow up not being expected to clean up after meals.
That habit carries over into adulthood and public spaces like fast food outlets. It’s not always a conscious choice; it’s just what we’re used to. Changing that mindset would take a mix of education and more visible reminders in public places.
How does this behavior compare with other countries
When Filipinos travel or migrate abroad, one of the first things they often notice is how people in other countries clean up after themselves without being told. In countries like Japan, Singapore, Australia, or even the United States, it’s generally understood that diners should tidy up after eating in fast food restaurants.
In many countries, cleaning up after oneself in fast food chains is deeply ingrained in the culture. In Japan, cleanliness is a core value: customers are expected to sort waste, return trays, and are often thanked with a bow by staff.
Singapore enforces strict cleanliness laws under the Environmental Public Health Act and promotes tray return campaigns, especially in hawker centres and fast food outlets. In the United States, while not legally required, signs like “Thank you for bussing your table” encourage self-cleaning, and leaving a mess is often seen as rude.
In Germany and Scandinavian countries, civic responsibility is highly valued; not cleaning up can earn disapproving looks from others. These countries reflect a collective mindset that values public cleanliness and personal accountability, in contrast to the more service-oriented expectations common in the Philippines.
The differences highlight how cultural norms and legal systems shape everyday behaviours in public spaces.
Government and industry initiatives
As of writing, there is no specific Philippine law mandating tray returns in fast food chains, some local government units (LGUs) and private companies have started to push for cleaner practices:
- While RA 9003: Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000 focuses on solid waste segregation and disposal, it promotes public participation in managing waste.
- Quezon City Ordinance No. 2868-2019Â penalises littering in public spaces, including food establishments. It encourages patrons to clean up after themselves.
- Mang Inasal has placed signs urging customers to clean up, especially in mall-based locations with shared dining areas.
However, implementation remains inconsistent and is largely dependent on management discretion.
Should cleaning up be expected in the Philippines?
This question has divided and will continue to divide the public:
Arguments against requiring customers to clean up:
“That’s what the staff is paid to do.”
“It’s part of the dining experience here.”
“Not everyone is physically capable—elderly or mothers with kids.”
Arguments for encouraging clean-up:
“It’s about respect for the next customer.”
“Just because there’s staff doesn’t mean you can be inconsiderate.”
“We should start building a culture of shared responsibility.”
A cultural shift in the making
It’s important to recognise that behaviors are shaped over time and through community effort. If Filipinos abroad can adapt to foreign norms, why not promote the same back home?
Here are simple but powerful steps towards change.
Practice at home
Teaching children to clean up after meals at home helps them develop responsibility from a young age. When cleaning up becomes part of their daily routine, it becomes a habit they carry with them into adulthood, ensuring they are mindful of cleanliness in public spaces.
Support signage
Fast food chains can play a crucial role in promoting cleanliness by placing visible and friendly signage encouraging customers to return trays and dispose of trash properly. Simple reminders not only guide customers but also create a culture of cleanliness that benefits everyone in the community.
Lead by example
Whether in Manila or abroad, adults have a powerful influence on children’s behavior by modeling proper etiquette, including cleaning up after themselves in public spaces. Leading by example sets a strong precedent and encourages younger generations to adopt similar habits in fast food establishments and beyond.
Don’t shame but educate
Rather than publicly calling out strangers online for leaving a mess, it’s better to foster constructive conversations about responsibility and cleanliness. Educating others with kindness encourages a more understanding approach and promotes positive change without creating shame or animosity.
Final thoughts
Leaving a messy table is not unique experience in the Philippines. It also happens elsewhere. But cleaning up after yourself in a fast food restaurant reflects deeper values: respect, responsibility, and care for others. The Philippines has an opportunity to grow in this area, not by shaming, but by shifting cultural habits and expectations.
Whether you’re a local, an expat, or a tourist, remember: the small things we do in public shape the kind of society we live in. Let’s be the generation that normalises courtesy, one tray at a time.