White beaches, cerulean waves, tasty delicacies, and this level of heart-warming hospitality can ony be found in one place, the Philippines. One area that has tourists flocking into the country is located south, in the Visayan and Mindanao regions, including Cebu, Boracay and Davao. There you’ll find some of the most spectacular marine sanctuaries here, like Nalusuan Island, pristine beaches like Boracay and Panglao, and amazing hiking trails, such as Mount Apo and Mount Tres Marias.

If you plan on visiting this part of the Philippines, it’s a good idea to pick up some Bisaya words or phrases for your trip! Bisaya is one of the eight major languages in the Philippines and is prevalent in the islands of Visayas and some parts of Mindanao.

The Bisaya, or Visayan languages, are a group of related languages spoken in the central and southern regions of the Philippines, specifically in the Visayas and Mindanao.

Cebuano, Hiligaynon (also known as Ilonggo), and Waray-Waray are the three largest and most widely spoken languages in the Visayan group.

While most Filipinos talk in Tagalog and even English for daily life, the Bisaya language is still very crucial to the culture, especially within the Visayan regions.

Also keen to learn some Tagalog for your trip? Check out our guide to basic phrases.

If you know, at least, several of the Bisaya language daily phrases, you’ll build connections with the locals easily. It also shows respect, interest, and the locals will really appreciate it. In some rural areas, you may come across people that may only understand Bisaya, so knowing a few words is helpful for asking for directions, negotiate in markets, or order food can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

When traveling around Cebu, whether you’re exploring the Magellan Shrine, strolling through Colon Street, or tasting local dishes, knowing a few Cebuano (Bisaya) phrases can help you connect with the locals. Cebuanos are known for being warm and friendly, and they’ll truly appreciate your effort to speak even a little of their language.

Make a good first impression and learn how to politely greet and introduce yourself to a local with these basic Cebuano phrases:

Basic Greetings

Personal Introductions

Polite Expressions

Common Words and Phrases

There are several iconic Visayan dishes that you should definitely try on your visit such as kinilaw, chicken inasal, and lechon. Get a load of the local cuisine and put these phrases to good use.

The islands of Visayas are dotted with pristine white beaches, historic sites, and plenty of nature and marine life activities. From the country’s oldest street, Colon street, in Cebu to the picturesque Panglao Island and Bohol, this is the place to be if you’re looking for an adventure. Check out these phrases to help you travel through the region.

Sure, every language will have its own unique etiquettes, like certain gestures, intonation, volume, and more. Before you actually practice your Bisaya language directly with the locals, learn some common etiquettes here:

As common etiquettes, please talk in a soft voice, not too loud and not too soft either. Do smile at the locals and laugh along in a polite way.

Visiting Bisaya-speaking regions in the Philippines, like Cebu, Bohol, Negros, Leyte, and parts of Mindanao, can be so much fun, especially if you’re familiar with some cultural nuances. Here are a few cultural tips to make your visit more enjoyable and respectful:

If you form a friendship with the locals, please consider giving them the pasalubong they deserve. It can be a nice farewell gift and a lovely way to show appreciation for their hospitality during your trip in the Philippines.

Ready for your trip to the Philippines?

Now that you know the guide of Bisaya words and phrases, you will definitely have a good time–twice better! Have you planned your holiday in the Philippines with Traveloka? Get the best rate for everything you need, from your flights, hotels, and attraction tickets!