Skip to main content

Social · Philippines

Use "po" and "opo" to show respect

Add "po" or "opo" to sentences when speaking to elders or people in authority — it's the polite form of address in Filipino.

PhilippinesSocialcasualUpdated September 2, 2026

When you answer a question from an elder or a superior, end your sentence with “po” — for example, “Salamat po” (thank you) or “Opo” (yes, respectfully).

You don’t need to use it with friends or people your own age, but when in doubt with someone older, adding “po” is always the safer, more respectful choice.

Why it matters

Filipino has built-in politeness markers. "Po" is added to the end of sentences when speaking to someone older or in a position of respect, and "opo" is the polite way to say "yes." Dropping them with elders can come across as rude or overly familiar, even if the words themselves are correct. In parts of the Southern Tagalog region you'll also hear "ho" used the same way — it's a regional variant, not a mistake.

Source: Po and Opo – Wikipedia

More from Philippines

Accept the refreshments at a business meeting

Business

Let the eldest or the host eat first

Dining

Skip lilies and chrysanthemums, wrap it well

Gifts

More Social rules

Let them lead the cheek kiss, and match the local count

Social

Never criticize someone in front of others

Social

Let the host toast first, and clink lower

Social