What I need to know when going to typical (traditional) wedding ceremony in Philippines?

I got married in Philippines (Catholic). So I can give you some insights.

My family is from Spain, but my wife's family is from Philippines.

Dressing for women was practically the same as in Spain (formal dress but for a very hot/humid weather). All the male guests were wearing barong tagalog that we rented few days earlier. I was also wearing barong tagalog but special one I bought (a little bit more decorated).

The ceremony is pretty much the same with few additions. There are some sponsors (I think is like maid of honour / best man), they perform so rituals during the ceremony like placing a decorated cord around the bride and groom (in a shape of 8) to symbolise the fidelity or placing a veil on the shoulders as a symbol of the two of them becoming one. Also the groom will give 13 coins blessed by the priest (That is also typical in Spain).

The reception was a little bit different.. bride and groom have their own little table on a stage where all the guests can see them. It's usual to have a presenter who will give through the reception ( speeches, dances, fun stuff ). Also to they place a little tree where people can put small envelope with some money as gift.

On the anecdotal side.. My family brought some very good wines for the reception, but Filipinos are not used to wine (I guess) few people tried them, which was OK because we speed 2 weeks more there and my family had enough wine for the trip :)

I think some could provide anecdotes or suggestions, but a few things to remember:

• Have fun. Don't get too hung up on not doing the wrong thing
• You're the foreigner, some faux pas are more readily forgiven

Saying, that, there's an excellent article on Marriage and wedding customs in the Philippines on Wikipedia. It covers some attire, some of the traditions (and what they mean), and interestingly, some of the superstitions surrounding it as well.

If you're still unsure, your girlfriend's family is likely to have some suggestions on anything uncommon that they think you may not expect.

I'd also recommend a post-wedding answer when you get back, with on-the-ground experience being the best source of information for everyone else!

You might want to checkout the Wedding Ceremony Sequence on this link and it will give you an idea or an overview on how a traditional Catholic wedding ceremony is done in the Philippines.

For dress code, since you are already in the Philippines, try wearing their national dress for males which they call, the Barong Tagalog.