When visiting Davao City, tourists believe that there is no need to be worried about language barriers. That might be true, given Davaoeño’s ability to quickly learn new languages. One example is the province’s growing BPO industry. We can understand, speak, and write in English, Tagalog, and Bisaya with ease.

We adapt our vocab to the local language or dialect wherever we travel. We enjoy it, but the people of Davao would appreciate it if you, as visitors, tried to learn some of our basic words, terms, and phrases!

The Bisaya (or Cebuano) language is commonly spoken across the Philippines, especially in regions where Tagalog is assumed. It is also the second most important dialect in the country. Bisaya has been translated into a number of dialects and is spoken in various ways depending on the locality. In Davao, the word bisaya is pronounced differently. Our accent is distinct and powerful. We are frequently misunderstood and, as a result, get into trouble because of it.

Many people make fun of our accent, and we make fun of ourselves as well. But, because Bisaya is such a wonderful language, there’s no reason we can’t use it every day, even when we’re not in Davao!

When in Davao, join us instead of staring at us like we’re crazy probinsyanos. These are some basic Bisaya words, terms, and phrases to use (and avoid):

ALSO READ: Filipino for Beginners

Greetings

Courtesies

Restaurant/Shopping

Getting Around

Other Useful Bisaya Words

Numbers