Filipino is the official national language of the Philippines. This language is based on Tagalog which is the most widely used of the over 70 languages within the country. Visayan (or Cebuano) is the native language of the people in Bohol.

When you listen closely to Tagalog you will recognise the evolving nature of language as it contains both Spanish and Chinese words and has many similarities to some Malay and Indonesian languages. This is a reflection of both the migratory and colonial history of this region.

Fortunately for the less linguistic, the use of English is also prevalent throughout the country and especially in tourist destination. Signs are written in English and the vast majority of labelling is also done in English. This makes it a very easy country to travel and stay in.

You may well come across a kind of combo-language (particularly in the cities) where people will speak Taglish a combination of Tagalog and English. Incredibly you will overhear conversations when the language is often switched backwards and forwards mid-sentence!

As ever, when speaking English to those around you, please remember that it may not be someone’s first (or even second) language so please speak slowly and coherently. And remember, always with a smile.