A sixteen-tile game
Like Taiwanese mahjong, Filipino play uses sixteen-tile hands completed with five sets and a pair. The larger hand encourages quick, frequent wins.
Local rules
Filipino tables often include their own bonuses for special situations, flower collections and dealer streaks. Rules vary from family to family, so newcomers should ask before playing.
Social role
Mahjong is popular at fiestas, holidays and family reunions. Many Filipino families abroad continue the tradition, keeping their own versions of the rules alive.
Learning
Players familiar with Taiwanese or Hong Kong mahjong will recognise most of the game; the main task is learning the host family's scoring.
