Help and emergencies in Tagalog
The words you hope to never need. Play the ten Tagalog words against the clock, with a note on how locals really use each one after every answer. All ten are written out below.
All 10 Tagalog phrases in this lesson
- Tulong!too-LONG
- Help!
- Tawagan ang doktorta-WA-gan ang DOK-tor
- Call a doctor
- PulisPOO-lis
- Police
- Botikabo-TEE-ka
- Pharmacy
- Ospitalos-pee-TAL
- Hospital
- Nawala akona-WA-la a-ko
- I'm lost
- Masama ang pakiramdam koma-sa-MA ang pa-kee-RAM-dam ko
- I don't feel well
- Ninakawan akonee-na-ka-WAN a-ko
- It was stolen
- Emergency itoee-MER-jen-see ee-TO
- It's an emergency
- Lubayan mo akoloo-BA-yan mo a-KO
- Leave me alone
Sharp and clear. Filipinos are helpful and will respond. For calm requests: "kailangan ko ng tulong" (I need help). In emergencies, English works fine; metro areas are connected.
Emergency is 911 in Metro Manila. Private hospitals are clean and modern in cities; provincial care is basic. Insurance and payment upfront are expected.
Non-emergency is 117. Filipino police speak basic English. Crime exists but tourist areas are monitored. Most helpful interactions happen in friendly neighborhoods.
Modern pharmacies are everywhere in cities; most medicines are available over the counter. Staff speak English and advise willingly. Prices are low compared to Western countries.
Modern hospitals exist in Metro Manila and major cities. Provincial hospitals are basic. Emergency treatment for visitors is available but payment is upfront or verified.
Nawala means lost. Filipinos will help immediately, often with detailed directions. Walking around unfamiliar areas is fine; locals are friendly and helpful.
Literally "my feeling is bad".
Ninakaw means stolen. Combining: "ang aking bag ay ninakawan ko" (my bag was stolen from me). Police reports are needed for insurance. Vigilance in crowds is essential.
The emergency number is 911.
Literally "leave me be".