One of the many things that reflect the Filipino culture is the Philippine salawikain or proverbs that are usually passed from one generation to another. Although nobody really knows when, how, or who started it, these proverbs teach lessons based on the practical wisdom that people learned from their everyday experiences and deep observation of life.

It explains the character, values and philosophy of the Filipino. They are strong expressions covered in poetry and are most of the time incorporated into daily conversations to be able to get a point across in a euphemistic way. These proverbs serve as a helpful guide to the way that people should live as well as give advice and encouragement for the young and adults alike.

Here are some of the most famous examples of Philippine salawikain with their English translation:

“Aanhin pa ang damo, kung patay na ang kabayo.” – Of what use is the grass if the horse is already dead.

“Maraming salita, kulang sa gawa.” – A man who talks too much accomplishes little.

“Ubos-ubos biyaya, pagkatapos nakatunganga.” – Spend lavishly and you would end up with nothing.

“Ang lakas ay daig ng paraan.” – Strength is defeated by strategy.

“Ang mabigat ay gumagaan, kung pinagtutulungan.” – - – Anything that is heavy can be made light if we put our resources together.

Philippine salawikain can also be used as an introduction or some sort of disclaimer to a statement that a speaker that would say that could perhaps offend a particular individual or group. Thus, when someone says “bato-bato sa langit, pag tinamaan wag magagalit”, he only means to clear himself from any resentment that his statement might incur and to forewarn affected listeners not to get mad.

Proverbs does not necessarily have to be similar to each other. Sometimes they can also be contradictory or supplementary that’s why people with different viewpoints about a particular issue can use proverbs that may support his claims. And because it was handed down from one generation to another generation, the Philippine salawikain can easily be instilled in the memory and thus be easily remembered when needed.

But what makes these proverbs significant and realistic is the fact that they are universal wisdom and thus can be applied not only by the Filipinos but everyone else. With the wit and humor that it contains, it indeed adds spice to the Filipino language. So to obtain the real essence of the Filipino culture and life, examining the salawikain is a good way to start.

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