Meaning
Standard phrase used to get a shopkeeper's attention.
Cultural Background
The 'Sari-Sari' store is a cultural icon. The name means 'variety' or 'sundry.' These stores are often the only source of goods in remote areas and serve as community hubs. The use of 'po' and 'opo' is central to Filipino identity. Omitting it when speaking to elders or strangers is considered a sign of poor upbringing (walang modo). Filipinos often buy things in 'tingi' (small portions). This is why you say 'Pabili po' for a single stick of cigarette or a small sachet of shampoo. In small neighborhoods, 'Pabili po' can lead to 'Palista po' (Put it on my tab). This reflects the high level of trust within a barangay.
Volume Matters
If the store owner is inside, don't be afraid to say it loudly. It's not considered rude to shout 'Pabili po!' to get attention.
Don't Forget 'Po'
Even if the vendor is younger than you, using 'po' is safer for learners to ensure you are perceived as polite.
Meaning
Standard phrase used to get a shopkeeper's attention.
Volume Matters
If the store owner is inside, don't be afraid to say it loudly. It's not considered rude to shout 'Pabili po!' to get attention.
Don't Forget 'Po'
Even if the vendor is younger than you, using 'po' is safer for learners to ensure you are perceived as polite.
The 'Nga' Trick
Add 'nga' (Pabili nga po) to sound like a local. It makes the request sound more natural and less like a textbook.
Test Yourself
You are at a sari-sari store. How do you politely get the owner's attention?
Choose the best phrase:
'Pabili po!' is the standard polite way to announce you want to buy something.
Complete the sentence to buy milk.
Pabili po ___ gatas.
The linker 'ng' is used to connect the verb 'pabili' to the object 'gatas'.
Match the phrase to the correct location.
Where would you say 'Pabili po'?
This phrase is specific to informal, over-the-counter neighborhood commerce.
Complete the dialogue.
Buyer: Pabili po ng kape. Seller: Ito o, tatlong piso. Buyer: ______.
After receiving the item and paying, you should say 'Salamat po' (Thank you).
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Where to use Pabili po
Use it here
- • Sari-sari store
- • Wet market
- • Street food cart
- • Bakery
Don't use it here
- • SM Mall
- • Starbucks
- • Fine dining
- • Supermarket
Practice Bank
4 exercisesChoose the best phrase:
'Pabili po!' is the standard polite way to announce you want to buy something.
Pabili po ___ gatas.
The linker 'ng' is used to connect the verb 'pabili' to the object 'gatas'.
Where would you say 'Pabili po'?
This phrase is specific to informal, over-the-counter neighborhood commerce.
Buyer: Pabili po ng kape. Seller: Ito o, tatlong piso. Buyer: ______.
After receiving the item and paying, you should say 'Salamat po' (Thank you).
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
5 questionsNo, it's better to use 'Excuse me' or 'Waiter.' 'Pabili po' is for over-the-counter sales.
Yes! It's the perfect way to stop a vendor selling taho, fishballs, or newspapers.
You can say 'Pabili po nito' (I'd like to buy this) while pointing.
The vendor will usually say 'Ano 'yun?' (What is it?) or 'Sandali lang!' (Just a moment!).
It is 'consultative'—polite enough for strangers but casual enough for neighbors.
Related Phrases
Magkano po ito?
builds onHow much is this?
Tao po!
similarIs anyone home?
Salamat po.
builds onThank you.
Paabot po.
similarPlease pass [this].
Wala po bang tawad?
specialized formIs there no discount?
