Philippines
Southeast Asia · Filipino · Philippine Peso
Add po to soften any sentence, take the karaoke mic when offered, and never grab the last piece of food without offering it around first.
Today in Philippines
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5 phrases you need in Philippines
- HelloKumustakoo-MOOS-tah
- GoodbyePaalampah-AH-lahm
- PleasePakiusappah-kee-OO-sahp
- Thank youSalamatsah-LAH-maht
- Excuse meMawalang-galang pomah-wah-LAHNG gah-LAHNG poh
The Trovlr app drills all 8 Philippines phrases with audio, Duolingo-style. Get the app →
Know before you go
money
This is a cash country once you leave the malls; ATMs charge foreign-card fees and run dry on small islands, so carry pesos before boarding any ferry.
transport
Grab works in Manila and Cebu; between islands, book ferries and domestic flights ahead in peak season and pad your schedule, since delays are routine.
safety
Typhoon season runs roughly June to November; check PAGASA forecasts before island-hopping, because ferries stop sailing fast when storm signals go up.
etiquette
Respect for elders is structural: add po to sentences, accept hospitality graciously, and never cause someone public embarrassment — saving face matters here.
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