Even though Filipino is the official and most widely spoken language in the Philippines, a lot of Filipinos can speak and understand English, so communicating with the locals is not that difficult. However, learning some Filipino words and phrases won't hurt. This will also enable you to understand the Philippine customs and culture.

Here are some common words and phrases that may come in handy when traveling to the Philippines:

Greetings / Pleasantries

Q: How are you? Kamusta ka?

A: I'm fine. Mabuti

Good morning! Magandang umaga!

Good afternoon! Magandang hapon!

Good night! Magandang gabi!

Thank you! Salamat!

You're welcome! Walang anuman!

Please Paki

Okay Sige

Yes Oo

No Hindi

I'm sorry. Pasensya na / Paumanhin

Goodbye Paalam

Directions / Getting Around

Where is the _______? Saan ang ________?

Left Kaliwa

Right Kanan

Up Taas

Down Baba

Here Dito

There Diyan

Stop Hinto

Questions

What's your name? Ano ang pangalan mo?

How much? Magkano?

What? Ano?

Who? Sino?

Where? Saan?

Why? Bakit?

How? Paano?

Other Useful Local Phrases

Money Pera

Expensive Mahal

Cheap Mura

Fare Pasahe

Delicious Masarap

Beautiful Maganda

I don't know. Hindi ko alam.

Wait Hintay

Filipinos are generally helpful and very hospitable, so striking up a conversation with them is not a hard thing to do. Just learn the basics and you'll do just fine.