The Filipino-American relationship is deeply rooted in history — colonialism, war, independence and alliance — and has left enduring cultural and linguistic legacies. Among the most tangible of these is the prominent use of English in the Philippines, where proficiency levels are among the highest in Asia and above many averages.
Here are a few examples of English words and their Filipino origins…
Pronunciation: /BOON-dahks/
A remote, rural, or isolated area -far from cities or civilization.
Comes from the Tagalog word “bundók” meaning mountain.
"My grandparents live way out in the boondocks. "
Pronunciation: ˈyah-yah A maid or nanny who takes care of children. The term spread globally through Filipino overseas workers and now appears in English literature, media, and dictionaries.
Example Sentence:
"The children adores their yaya. "
Pronunciation: /mə-NIL-uh/
Used as an adjective meaning (1) from Manila, or (2) relating to materials made from abacá fiber, such as Manila hemp or Manila envelope.
Derived from Manila, the capital of the Philippines.
"Please putthe documents inside a Manila envelope."
Pronunciation: /ah-bah-KAH/ A strong natural fiber used to make rope, twine, paper, and clothing. A native plant of the Philipines (Musa textilis) and historically called “Manila hemp.”
Example Sentence:
"The bagis made from handwoven abacá fibers."
‘Pronunciation: /KEE-lig/ A fluttery feeling of excitement, usually romantic.
A Filipino emotional word added to the Oxford English Dictionary because there’s no exact equivalent in English.
"That romantic scene gave me kilig!"
A colorful public transport vehicle in the Philippines.
Created from leftover U.S. military jeeps after World War II and redesigned as shared minibuses.
Example Sentence:
"Tourists love riding jeepneys because they're colorful and unique."
Pronunciation: /KAR-ah-bow/ A domesticated water buffalo.
Origin: Comes from the Filipino word “kalabaw.” Adopted by English speakers during the early American colonial period.
Example Sentence:
"Farmers use the carabao to help plow fields."
Pronunciation: /bah-rang-GUY/
The smallest local government unit in the Philippines.
From the ancient sailing boats called balangay, symbolizing a community.
Example
Sentence:
"Every barangay has its own local leaders."
The friendship between the Philippines and the United States is more than history—it is alive in everyday life. In bustling streets and quiet towns, Taglish flows effortlessly, a playful blend of Filipino and English that tells the story of two cultures entwined. This linguistic fusion invites visitors to connect, understand, and share in the warmth of Filipino life.
Across islands and cities, American travelers and tourists from around the world discover the Philippines’ vibrant festivals, sun-kissed shores, and rich heritage. Each journey becomes a bridge —connecting past and present, culture and curiosity, friendship and discovery. Through language and tourism, this enduring bond continues to enrich the islands, offering a living celebration of connection and cultural pride.