Vowels are harder than in American English, but softer than in a British accent. Also, all the vowels are unrounded, except for /o/. [2] X Research source There are exceptions though: ng is pronounced ’nang’ and mga is pronounced ‘muhNGA’. The ‘-ng’, which is a single letter, is pronounced as in ‘bang’ or ‘song’.

If you have a limited amount of time, focus your studying on common greetings that you are likely to use. Don’t try to learn all the grammar and structure of the language if you are visiting in the near future.

To say good morning, say “Magandang umaga” (ma-gan-dang u-ma-ga), which literally means beautiful morning. To say good afternoon, say “Magandang hapon” (ma-gan-dang ha-pon), which literally means beautiful afternoon. To say good evening, say “Magandang gabi” (ma-gan-dang ga-bi), which literally means beautiful evening.

If you get stuck and don’t know what to say, just speak in English. It is better to say something in English than nothing at all. However, if you want to impress those you interact with, then go ahead and study the language so you are prepared!

It is pronounced /kah - mu:s - ta: ka: - yo:/.

Also, use opo to say “yes. " This is basically the equivalent of saying “yes, ma’am” or “yes sir. "

Greeting someone you just met with a kiss on the cheek or a hug is not usually done. This is most often reserved for once you have developed a relationship. [7] X Research source If you are in a Muslim area of the Philippines, then the rules for touching, especially between men and women, may be different. Shaking hands may still be appropriate but men may need to initiate. Notice what others are doing around you and follow their lead. [8] X Research source

If an elderly person holds out their hand in front of their body with the palm facing down, this may be a sign that they are expecting a “mano” greeting. This greeting is about you respecting your elders but it is also about the elder blessing you when they touch your forehead. [10] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source

In general, Filipinos love to laugh. They do it genuinely but they also laugh to move away from uncomfortable topics or to break tension. Be aware of this and be willing to change the subject if you notice this cue. [11] X Research source