Useful Vocabulary for the Philippines

Useful Vocabulary for the Philippines

===============================

Starting your tailor-made trip to the Philippines with some Tagalog vocabulary is a real asset for cultural immersion and forging connections with local people.

Languages of the Philippines

For your stay in the country, it is helpful to have a lexicon of useful travel words. The country's ethnic diversity is immense: more than 170 languages are spoken! The official language is Tagalog (or Filipino, its standardized version), which serves as the basis for communication in Manila and the center of the country. English, also an official language, is widely understood in major cities, the tourism sector, and professional settings. However, in the provinces or on certain islands (like Cebu or those in the Visayas), Cebuano, Hiligaynon, Ilocano, or Waray may dominate, with sometimes very different vocabularies. A simple word like "to eat" will vary depending on the region: "kain" in Tagalog, "kaon" in Cebuano, or "kakan" in Bikolano, though less commonly used today

Spanish Heritage and Linguistic Influence

After 300 years of Spanish colonization, many words of Spanish origin are found in the Tagalog lexicon: "kamusta" (from ¿cómo está?), "mesa" (table), "kutsara" (spoon), or "bintana" (window). This influence is also evident in first names, place names, and certain days of the week.

The phenomenon of "Taglish" (a blend of Tagalog and English) is also omnipresent, which simplifies communication for travelers. A simple "Yes po!" (yes, with respect) works well in both English and Tagalog.

Basics of Polite Communication

The use of the respect marker "po" or "opo" is important: these are systematically used toward elders, strangers, or people in positions of authority. They are usually added to the end of a sentence (e.g., "Salamat po" for "thank you"), transforms a basic phrase into a highly appreciated mark of courtesy. To greet politely: "Magandang umaga po." ("Good morning.").

Conversely, informal address and omitting "po" are generally reserved for intimate or friendly settings. Filipinos greatly appreciate it when a foreigner makes the effort to use these marks of respect.

Gestures and Non-verbal Codes to Know

Nonverbal communication plays an important role:

• Pagmamano: Touching an elder’s hand to your forehead to show respect.
• Lip pointing: Pointing a direction with the lips (rather than the finger, which is impolite).
• Beso-beso: Friendly cheek-to-cheek greeting among close people.
• Slight head inclination: Used when asking permission to pass or greeting someone.
• A smile: Universal and highly appreciated, especially when accompanying modest Tagalog conversation.
• Do not stare longer than necessary: This can be perceived as aggressive.

Regional Differences and Local Expressions

Depending on your itinerary, you will likely hear different dialects:

• "Maupay" (hello in Waray)
• "Marhay" (hello in Bikol)
• "Kaon" (eat in Cebuano)

However, Tagalog remains understood in all main tourist centers and serves as a bridge between different regional cultures.

Practical Tagalog: Tips for Good Communication

• Speak slowly; Filipinos will appreciate your efforts even if imperfect.
• Smile, be patient and accompany your speech with "po" or "opo".
• Prefer to ask questions in English if you hit a language barrier: "Do you speak English?": "Marunong po kayong magsalita ng English?"
• Never raise your voice; stay warm and avoid direct criticism.
• Learn a few regional words if you leave big cities for a more authentic immersion!

Key Tagalog or Filipino Expressions

Questions

Expressions for Transport and Shopping

• Para po! /Paki-hinto po dito!: Please stop here (very useful in jeepneys or tricycles)
• Saan po ang sakayan ng jeepney/bus?: Where is the jeepney/bus stop?
• Magkano po ang pamasahe papunta sa [place]?: How much is the fare to [place]?
• Paano pumunta sa…?: How to go to…?
• Magkano po ito?: How much is this? (market, shop)
• Puwede ba itong tawaran?: Can the price be negotiated?
• Mayroon ba kayong mas mura?: Do you have something cheaper?
• Kailangan ko po ng resibo.: I need a receipt.

Time and Appointments

At the Restaurant

Some Useful Words

Numbers and Days of the Week

Tips and Mistakes to Avoid

• Practice the basics daily, by listening or speaking.
• Always use "po" in all formal interactions.
• Don’t be surprised by the "p" replacing "f" sometimes: "pish" instead of "fish", "kopi" for "coffee".
• Crucial point: Accept at least one bite when invited to eat – completely refusing is often seen as rude.
• Avoid pointing with your finger: favor the lip gesture to indicate something.
• When in doubt, politely ask "Paki-ulit po." (Please repeat).

With this essential vocabulary at hand, travelers will be able to confidently navigate daily life, forge richer connections with locals, and open up to the exceptional diversity of this unique archipelago in Asia. At Shanti Travel our local Philippines travel experts encourage the use of these phrases for true cultural immersion.