How Filipinos Say "I Love You": Words, Songs, and Food ❤️
Filipinos express love in many ways—not just through words, but through music, food, and everyday gestures. My personal love language? Lambing (showing affection or tenderness). Something that I love doing with my kids.
Love is deeply embedded in our culture, from the way we share meals to the songs we sing. This makes learning about Filipino expressions of love a beautiful way to stay connected to our roots.
Harana: The Lost Art of Filipino Serenades
Long before text messages and love letters, Filipino courtship was done through Harana. A young man would serenade the woman he admired with heartfelt songs, often accompanied by a guitar. This tradition, influenced by Spanish culture, was a way to express devotion and admiration.
Some of the most beautiful Harana songs include: 🎶 Dungawin Mo Hirang (Look out the window, Beloved) – beautiful imagery of what a Harana would have been like back then 🎶 Lihim Na Pagibig (My Secret Love) – a song that speaks to so much of our collective experience of secret crushes and not quite yet requited love.
Even today, Filipinos express emotions through music—whether it’s a karaoke session with family or a heartfelt ballad dedicated to a loved one.
Check out Florante Aguilar on youtube for some lovely videos of Filipino songs and his website for more information on the different kinds of Harana.
Food: The Filipino Love Language
If you grew up in a Filipino household, you know that love is served on a plate. Instead of saying "I love you," parents and grandparents will ask, "Kumain ka na?" (Have you eaten?) or insist on feeding you until you're full.
Each dish tells a story of love and care: 🍲 Arroz caldo – A warm bowl of rice porridge when you're feeling sick 🍗 Adobo – A slow-cooked, flavorful dish passed down through generations 🍮 Leche flan – A sweet, creamy dessert often made for special occasions
Sharing food is an essential part of Filipino culture and a way of bringing people together. Whether it's preparing a meal for a loved one or packing extra food for a friend, food is how Filipinos nurture and express affection.
Saying "I Love You" in Different Filipino Languages
When it comes to expressing love in the Filipino language, there are several ways to say "I love you." Some common expressions include:
🥰 "Mahal kita" (I love you) common
💕 Iniibig Kita (I love you) poetic
💞 Aalagaan Kita (I will take care of you)
💗 Gusto kong tumanda kasama ka (I want to grow old with you)
💌 Ikaw ang lahat sa akin (You are my everything) - this is also a song if you want to earn more lambing points!
🤗 "Pinahahalagahan kita" (I appreciate you)
💖 "Pinasasalamatan kita" (I'm grateful for you)
💘Mahalaga ka sa akin (You are precious to me)
But the Philippines is also home to over 175 languages, and each one has its own way of expressing love. Here are a few:
💖 Ayayaten ka – Ilocano (I love you deeply)
🤗 Gihigugma tika – Cebuano (I love you)
💕 Palangga ta ikaw – Hiligaynon (You are my beloved)
💞 Padangga taka – Karay-a (I love you)
Why Teaching These Expressions Matters
For Filipino families raising kids abroad, language is one of the most powerful ways to stay connected to our heritage. Teaching our children these expressions not only helps them learn about their roots but also reinforces the values of love, family, and care that are central to Filipino culture.
This Valentine’s Day, why not teach your kids one of these phrases? Or better yet, show them love the Filipino way—by cooking a favorite dish, singing a heartfelt song, or giving them the biggest, warmest hug.
How does your family express love? Hit reply and share your favorite Filipino expressions!
P.S. Don’t forget to tag us on social if you make any of these dishes—we’d love to see your family’s creations! #CampfireCrates
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