20 Most Common Sayings in Philippines and What it Means


20 Most Common Sayings in the Philippines and What it Means

Filipinos are people who are native to or have origins in the Philippines, which is a country located in Southeast Asia. The population of the Philippines is diverse, with a variety of ethnic groups, languages, and cultures. The official languages of the Philippines are Filipino and English, although there are many regional languages as well.

Filipinos are known for their warmth, hospitality, and strong family values. They have a rich culture that is influenced by both their indigenous heritage and centuries of colonization by Spain, the United States, and other countries. Filipinos are also known for their love of food, music, dance, and celebrations, and they have a strong tradition of fiestas or festivals that celebrate everything from religious holidays to local harvests.


"Bahala na si Batman"

This means "Let Batman take care of it" and is used to express a sense of helplessness or resignation.


"Buhay pa naman ang aso at ang uwak"

This means "The dog and the crow are still alive" and is used to express hope or optimism.


"Isang kahig, isang tuka"

This means "One scratch, one peck" and is used to describe a life of poverty or hardship.


"Nasaan ang hustisya?"

This means "Where is justice?" and is used to express frustration or anger at a perceived injustice.


"Basta driver, sweet lover"

This means "As long as he's a good driver, he's a sweet lover" and is used to describe someone who may not be perfect but has a redeeming quality.


"Sabit sa patalim"

This means "Hanging on a knife edge" and is used to describe a dangerous or risky situation.


"Nangangapa sa dilim"

This means "Feeling one's way in the dark" and is used to describe someone who is uncertain or inexperienced.


"Nagpakatanga"

This means "Acting like a fool for love" and is used to describe someone who is making foolish choices in the name of love.


"Nangangamoy na ang mga isda"

This means "The fish are starting to smell" and is used to describe a situation that is getting worse.


"May pera sa basura"

This means "There is money in trash" and is used to encourage recycling and waste reduction.


"Wala sa sarili"

This means "Out of one's mind" and is used to describe someone who is acting irrationally.


"May ipot sa ulo"

This means "There is poop on the head" and is used to describe someone who is foolish or clueless.


"May araw din ang mga pusong naliligaw"

This means "Lost hearts will find their way someday" and is used to express hope for those who are lost or confused.


"Bato-bato sa langit, ang tamaan huwag magagalit"

 This means "Stones thrown to the sky, the one hit should not get angry" and is used to advise people not to take offense at criticism.


"Nasa Diyos ang awa, nasa tao ang gawa"

This means "Mercy is with God, action is with man" and is used to encourage people to take action to help others.


"Kapag puno na ang salop, kailangan ng kalusan"

This means "When the pail is full, it needs to be emptied" and is used to describe a situation that requires action.


"Bukas ang palad"

This means "Open palm" and is used to describe someone who is generous or willing to help.


"May pinagmanahan"

This means "There is something inherited" and is used to describe someone who has a special talent or ability that runs in the family.


"Hindi lahat ng kumikinang ay ginto"

This means "Not everything that shines is gold" and is used to caution against being deceived by appearances.


"Pusong mamon"

This means "Soft-hearted" and is used to describe someone who is emotional or easily moved 


Other Sayings/ Idiomatic Expressions to Read:

20 Most Common Sayings in United States and What it means