9 Fail-Proof Ways To Say You’re Welcome In Tagalog

you're welcome in Tagalog - A photo of a woman with open arms

Have you ever wondered about the unique ways to say you’re welcome in Tagalog? Making your way in any foreign country entails that you should have at least the base-level knowledge of the common vocabulary, native slang, and expressions used by the locals. To show complete appreciation for someone who says “thank you” or salamat to you in the Tagalog language, knowing the automatic Filipino responses can come in handy.

With this being said, this article is divided into two major parts: the first part includes the traditional and most common ways to say you’re welcome in the Tagalog language, while the second part will feature the unconventional replies that you’ll only hear from native Tagalog speakers.

How Do I Say You’re Welcome In Tagalog?

Out of all the statements that travelers should know whenever they visit a new country, we find it a little bit weird that “you’re welcome” is not usually part of the list.

Contrary to common belief, the aforementioned statement is essential because it can significantly boost possibilities for forming relationships. So, the next time a Filipino says “thanks” to you, be sure to arm yourself with the basic “walang anuman po.”

There are two major ways by which you can express acceptance of gratitude in Tagalog. What you have to remember is that in formal settings, you basically just have to add the word po to signify the utmost respect to whoever you are talking to. Review the example conversation below and the widely used counterparts for saying you’re welcome in Tagalog.

TagalogSoundExample In EnglishExample In TagalogSound
Formal:
Walang anuman po
Boss: Thanks for helping me!

You: Don’t mention it, sir!
Boss: Salamat sa pagtulong sa akin!

You: Walang anuman po, sir!


Informal:
Wala ‘yon
Friend: It’s a good thing you are here!

You: What? No need to mention it!
Friend: Buti na lang at nandiyan ka!  

You: Ano? Wala ‘yon!


What Are The Other Ways To Say You’re Welcome In Tagalog?

Of course, whenever we try to teach ourselves a new language, we do not just focus on the plain old vocabulary and sentence patterns. Instead, we also try to stock up with the trendiest and the most native ways to say something.

In the case of the Filipino language, most foreigners start by learning how to say thank you, I love you, and goodbye. But if you are seriously planning to visit the Philippines, it may be a good idea to learn more about the common Tagalog phrases for travel and the different ways to say you’re welcome in Tagalog.

Even better, try using the Ling app, the best gamified language-learning app that helps language learners learn 60+ languages. It’s free to use, and you can get it from Google Play and the App Store!

EnglishTagalogSoundWhat It Is Used For
It’s a small thing.Maliit na bagay.When speaking casually with friends
No problem.Walang problema.
When conversing with strangers
It is my pleasure to serve you.Masaya akong paglingkuran ka.When speaking with immediate family (traditional)
I am happy to help you.Masaya akong tulungan ka.When speaking casually with friends or strangers
It is okay.Ok lang ‘yon.When speaking casually with people you are close with
It is fine.Ayos lang ‘yon.When speaking casually with people you are close with
Whatever you ask me, I’ll do it. (Not a direct translation)Malakas ka sa akin e.When speaking casually with people whom you appreciate/look up to dearly

As a quick tip, note that Filipinos love being acknowledged in their native language. In this sense, I suggest that you memorize these quick short terms to astound and put a smile on the faces of your Filipino colleagues, friends, or even strangers.

Note: Tagalog slang words are a cultural thing among Filipinos wherein they clearly communicate how important the other person is. It is like saying that if that specific person calls for your help, you will instantly show up for him or her.

According to Cialdini, a leading psychologist in the field of persuasion studies, the use of the statement “you’re welcome” should not be considered an automatic response. You see, based on his studies, using unconventional replies is found to bring more impact as it can help you establish a specific kind of relationship and, at the same time, communicate how willing you are to lend a hand.

Other Ways To Say You're Welcome In Tagalog

Dos And Don’ts Of Saying You’re Welcome In Tagalog

When you’re in the Philippines, there is more than just saying you’re welcome in Tagalog. You should also know how you say them and the situation you’re in. Here are some friendly tips to help you get it right:

Do:

  • Choose the Right Level of Politeness: Add po to show respect, like when talking to someone older or in a serious setting. Say Walang anuman po instead of just Walang anuman. With friends, keep it chill and casual. Say Wala ‘yon or Ok lang ‘yon when you’re hanging out with your buddies.

  • Show How Much You Care: If you’re really close to someone or they mean a lot to you, say Malakas ka sa akin e. It’s like saying they have a special place in your heart.

  • Be Real: Make sure your voice sounds as kind as your words. When you say Masaya akong tulungan ka (I’m happy to help), let them see you mean it.

Don’t:

  • Don’t Get Too Formal with Friends: Saying Walang anuman po to your close friends might make things feel awkward. Keep it relaxed with them.

  • Remember, Actions Speak Too: A smile or a nod goes a long way. These little things can make your words feel warmer.

  • Different Places, Different Ways: The Philippines has lots of different areas, each with its own way of speaking. Be open to learning how things are said in different places.

  • Stay Humble: Showing off or sounding too proud is not cool. Keep your replies modest.

  • Don’t Over-Translate: Some English phrases don’t translate well into Tagalog. “My pleasure” sounds a bit too much in casual talks.

  • Be Careful with Slang: Slang is fun, but only if you use it right. Phrases like Walang problema (No problem) are nice, but know when to use them.

As I end this article, I hope that I was able to shed light on the fool-proof ways by which you can say you’re welcome in Tagalog. If you enjoyed this post, feel free to share it on social media and watch out for more posts related to the language of the Philippines. But, if you are in search of a handy language-learning buddy, you have got to try the Ling app. Keep learning, my friends!

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