How to Say “Hi” in Ilocano

By Gregory Jackson • Updated October 1, 2026

kablaaw

The Ilocano word for "hi" is kablaaw.

kablaaw is used as a friendly, informal greeting.

Meaning: friendly, informal greeting (intj)

Did you know?

Instead of a generic 'hi', Ilocano speakers often greet others by asking Napananka? which literally means 'Where did you go?' or Manganen? meaning 'Let us eat already'.
The word kablaaw can also be used in a formal, literary sense to mean 'an introduction' or 'an opening' in a speech or ceremony.
In many Ilocano households, saying 'hi' to an elder is considered insufficient unless you also use honorifics like 'Uncle' or 'Auntie' regardless of actual blood relation.

Example conversation

Manuel and Maria meet at the market.

Manuel

Kablaaw, Maria!
Hi, Maria!
Maria

Kablaaw, Manuel!
Hi, Manuel!
Manuel

Kumustaka aya?
How are you?
Maria

Nasayaat met, salamat.
I am doing well, thanks.

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About The Author

Gregory Jackson

Kumusta! I'm Gregory, your friendly guide to the Filipino language, Tagalog. My passion for languages, especially Tagalog, propels me into writing posts filled with formal and informal ways of expressing yourself in this vibrant language. From everyday greetings like "Good Evening", to unusual phrases such as "pak" or "nga", I've got you covered! I also have an obsession with food which often reflects in my posts — from "cereal" to "spaghetti", expect a dash of yummy in my content. I also write about Ilocano, the language of northern Luzon, sharing how everyday words are said in it. Mabuhay!

Gregory JacksonHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.

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