If you’ve ever watched foreign films, you know that certain countries are known for certain genres. The French have their charming comedies; the Americans their special effects and explosions. The Indians have everything (believe it or not, India is currently the largest producer of feature films in the world), and while most East Asian countries have plenty of romantic movies, you still have lots of variety with the popularity of Hong Kong’s action-comedy, Korea’s horror films and Japan’s dramatic tearjerkers. In the Philippines, though, it seems that it’s all about the romance, which isn’t surprising given the Filipinos love for…love!

To help you blend in on this Valentine’s Day, I thought I’d leave you with a list of romantic phrases you can say in Tagalog, so you won’t miss a beat next time you happen to be in this part of the world.

Happy practicing!

Key Romantic Phrases in Tagalog

“I love you”                                “Mahal kita”

“I like you” (as in crush)            “May gusto ako sa iyo”

“May I date you?”                        “Puwede ba kitang ligawan?”

“I want to marry you”                 “Gusto na kitang pakasalan”

“Will you marry me?”                 “Tatanggapin mo ba ang alay kong pakasalan kita?”

So you want to see the latest blockbuster. You’ve read the reviews, watched the previews, and stood in line early to get tickets to the opening show. Showtime as arrived, and you’re ready to go…but you better pay homage to the King, first!

That’s right. Before the film begins, there’s a video tribute to the Thai King, during which everyone in the audience is required to stand up and pay respects. I’ve seen this at sporting events before, well, national anthems anyway, but at recorded films? It was truly unique and interesting. The video itself features some “highlights” of the King spreading his good cheer, with a love song-style soundtrack in the background

Regardless of whether you’re a fan of Rama IX, however (and you better be, as making fun of the King can land you in prison), nobody can complain about the cost of moviegoing. A prime time show in a prime time theatre will only set you back about 4 USD. That leaves plenty for popcorn!