Welcome to the Forum or better yet Welcome to the Philippines!

The Cebuano (Sugbuhanon) language is spoken in the many provinces in the Visayas (Cebu, Bohol Negros Oriental Siquijor, Southern Masbate, Biliran, Western Samar and Leyte) and Mindanao. An approximate 20 million Filipinos speak/write/understand/use the Cebuano (Sugbohanon) language.

In general, the Filipino people understand English well but many are too awkward to converse in the universal language. If you intend to visit some of the Philippines’ best destinations, it will be helpful to know some local Cebuano terms.

Some useful Cebuano words/phrases: (including the Filipino translation)

Basic Greetings
Maayong Buntag (Magandang Umaga)------------------ Good Morning
Maayong Hapon (Magandang Tanghali)----------------- Good Afternoon
Maayong Gabii (Magandang Gabi) ----------------------Good Evening
Maayong Pag abot (Maligayang Pagdating)------------- Welcome

Basic Conversation
Kadyot lang. Puwedeng mangutana?--------------------Excuse me. May I ask something?
Tagpila ‘ni? (Magkano po ito?)--------------------------How much is this?
Unsay orasa?(Anong oras na?)-------------------------What time is it?
Asa man ko? (Nasan ako?)-----------------------------Where am I?
Asa man ang CR?(Nasan po ang CR?)-------------------Where is the comfort room?

Impress the locals by using these phrases but notice that they'll respond in English while a Peace Corp Volunteer will speak in fluent Cebuano…Ain't it ironic?!