Welcoming the new year is an occasion of joy and celebration around the world, and the Philippines is no exception. As the clock strikes midnight on December 31st, Filipinos greet each other with warm wishes for the coming year. In this guide, you’ll discover how to say “Happy New Year” in Filipino, both formally and informally. So, whether you’re planning to send New Year’s greetings to your Filipino friends, colleagues, or loved ones, this guide has got you covered!
Table of Contents
1. Formal Greetings
When addressing someone in a formal setting, such as in a professional or business setting, it is important to use proper and respectful language. Here are a few ways to wish someone a Happy New Year formally in Filipino:
a) “Maligayang Bagong Taon!”
This is the most commonly used formal greeting to wish someone a Happy New Year in Filipino. It translates directly to “Happy New Year” in English. This phrase is appropriate to use in any formal setting, whether in writing or in person.
b) “Manigong Bagong Taon!”
Another formal greeting to convey wishes for a prosperous New Year is “Manigong Bagong Taon!” It conveys the desire for a successful and blessed year ahead. This phrase can be used interchangeably with “Maligayang Bagong Taon!” in formal contexts.
2. Informal Greetings
When greeting friends, family, or close acquaintances, you can use more casual and friendly language to wish them a Happy New Year. Here are a couple of informal ways to say it:
a) “Hapi Nyu Yir!”
This informal greeting is a playful rendition of “Happy New Year” in English. It is commonly used among friends and peers, especially among the younger generation who are more influenced by Western culture.
b) “Manigong Bagong Taon, Pare/Kapatid/Kaibigan!”
Add a personal touch to your New Year greetings by addressing your close friends using the colloquial terms “Pare” (buddy), “Kapatid” (sibling), or “Kaibigan” (friend). For example, “Manigong Bagong Taon, Pare!” This shows your familiarity and strengthens the bond with your friends or loved ones.
3. Examples and Tips
To help you further understand the proper usage of New Year greetings in Filipino, here are a few examples and tips:
Examples:
- “Maligayang Bagong Taon sa iyo at sa iyong pamilya!” – Happy New Year to you and your family!
- “Manigong Bagong Taon! Sana marami kang natutunan at natamo sa nakaraang taon.” – Prosperous New Year! May you have gained and achieved many things in the past year.
- “Hapi Nyu Yir, mga kaibigan! Tara’t samahan natin ang isa’t isa sa mga pagsubok at tagumpay na maghihintay sa atin sa bagong taon.” – Happy New Year, friends! Let’s support each other through the trials and triumphs that await us in the new year.
Tips:
- When greeting someone in person, it is customary to shake hands or embrace while saying “Maligayang Bagong Taon” or “Manigong Bagong Taon”.
- If you are attending a family gathering or a New Year’s Eve party, it is polite to personally greet and wish each person a happy new year.
- If you’re sending written greetings, it is common to start with a warm introduction such as “Mahal kong (Dear) [Name].”
- Since the New Year is a time for fresh starts, it is also nice to extend wishes of good health, success, and happiness.
“Ang Bagong Taon ay pagkakataon na magsimula muli, magkumpas ng ibang talangka.” – Anon
In conclusion, expressing New Year greetings in Filipino is a wonderful way to show your appreciation and connection to Filipino culture. Whether you choose to use the formal “Maligayang Bagong Taon” or the informal “Hapi Nyu Yir,” your warm wishes will surely bring joy to those who receive them. So, spread the love and positivity as you welcome the New Year together with your Filipino friends and loved ones!
