Survival Filipino Language Course

Survival Filipino Language Culture Curriculum

📚 Week 1–2: Essential Filipino & First Impressions

Language Goals:

• Basic greetings and polite expressions
• Asking for directions
• Numbers, time, and transportation terms

Key Phrases:

• Magandang araw! – Good day!
• Pakiusap / Salamat – Please / Thank you
• Nasaan ang CR? – Where is the restroom?

Cultural Tips:

• Smile often—Filipinos are warm and friendly, and a genuine smile opens doors.
• Always greet elders with “po” and “opo” (a sign of respect).
• The "mano po" (hand to forehead gesture) is a traditional greeting to elders.

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📚 Week 3–4: Food, Family, and Daily Life

Language Goals:

• Ordering food
• Talking about family
• Describing routines

Key Phrases:

• Gutom na ako! – I’m hungry!
• Isa pa, pakiusap. – One more, please.
• Ito ang nanay ko. – This is my mother.

Cultural Tips:

• Filipino meals are family events. Expect rice. Always.
• Saying “no” to food is often considered rude—at least try a bite!
• “Tampo” is the silent treatment. Learn to read the room and apologize gently.

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📚 Week 5–6: Navigating Cities and Social Life

Language Goals:

• Public transport (jeepney, tricycle)
• Making friends and small talk
• Shopping and bargaining

Key Phrases:

• Para po! – Please stop (used in jeepneys)
• Magkano ito? – How much is this?
• Saan ka nakatira? – Where do you live?

Cultural Tips:

• Jeepneys are colorful, chaotic, and iconic—bring coins and pass your fare forward.
• Filipinos love chika (gossip/small talk)—engage in it, but avoid politics and religion at first.
• Bargaining is okay in markets, but do it with a smile.

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📚 Week 7–8: Filipino Workplace & Academic Etiquette

Language Goals:

• Office and school vocabulary
• Asking questions and giving opinions
• Setting appointments and schedules

Key Phrases:

• May meeting po ba tayo? – Do we have a meeting?
• Anong oras ang klase natin? – What time is our class?
• Pwede po bang magtanong? – May I ask a question?

Cultural Tips:

• Filipinos are polite to a fault. Direct confrontation is avoided—use soft language and "pakikisama" (getting along).
• Titles matter: use Ginoo (Mr.), Ginang (Mrs.), or Engineer/Attorney/Doctor with surnames.
• Group harmony is key—don’t embarrass someone publicly.

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📚 Week 9–10: Business Culture & Deeper Social Norms

Language Goals:

• Business introductions
• Making presentations
• Talking about plans and goals

Key Phrases:

• Ako po si [Name], galing sa [Company]. – I’m [Name] from [Company].
• May proposal po kami para sa inyo. – We have a proposal for you.
• Ano po ang plano natin? – What’s our plan?

Cultural Tips:

• Hierarchy is strong—respect for managers and senior staff is crucial.
• Expect indirect communication. “Yes” can mean “maybe.” Read between the lines.
• Business meetings may start late (Filipino Time)—be patient but punctual.

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📚 Week 11–12: Festivals, Fun, and Final Review

Language Goals:

• Expressing emotions and excitement
• Talking about holidays and traditions
• Reviewing travel, work, and daily phrases

Key Phrases:

• Ang saya dito! – It’s fun here!
• Anong okasyon ito? – What’s the occasion?
• Tara na! – Let’s go!

Cultural Tips:

• Filipinos love fiestas—expect food, music, and everyone’s invited.
• Karaoke is serious business. Just sing.
• Christmas starts in September. No joke.

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🧳 Bonus Cultural Survival Tips:

• Hospitality: If you visit someone’s home, bring a small gift or snack (pasalubong).
• Modesty: Dress modestly, especially in provincial areas or government buildings.
• Personal space: It’s normal for people to stand close. Don’t freak out.
• Respect: Avoid raising your voice in public—it’s seen as losing face.
• English is everywhere: But try Tagalog—it warms hearts fast.