How to Say “Welcome” in Ilocano

By Gregory Jackson • Updated October 1, 2026

kablaaw

The Ilocano word for "welcome" is kablaaw.

kablaaw is used as a greeting to welcome someone upon their arrival.

Meaning: greeting given upon someone's arrival (intj)

Did you know?

To say 'you are welcome' after being thanked, an Ilocano speaker would instead use awan ti aniaman, which literally means 'it is nothing'.
In many Ilocano households, instead of saying kablaaw, a host might simply ask if you have already eaten, as providing food is the ultimate way to welcome someone.
The root of kablaaw is linked to the concept of a 'greeting' or 'salutation' rather than a physical 'welcome' into a home, making it broader than the English sense.

Example conversation

Maria greets Manuel as he arrives at her house.

Maria

Kablaaw, Manuel!
Welcome, Manuel!
Manuel

Agyamanak, Maria.
Thank you, Maria.
Maria

Umayka dita uneg.
Come inside.
Manuel

Sige, mapanakon.
Okay, I'm going in.

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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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