How To Sound Like A Local In Tondo Manila With Casual Slang

Princeton Lock

07 May 2025 — 1 min read

How Do I Use Local Slang to Sound Like a Native in Tondo, Manila?

Want to wander around Tondo like a pro and not stick out like a sore thumb? Speaking the local lingo is your cheat code. Skip those awkward encounters and feel like you’re in on the joke with this slang guide.

1. "Petmalu"

In English: Awesome/Cool

Usage Tip: This is a fun twist on the word "malupet" (excellent or impressive) because "petmalu" is just "malupet" spelled in reverse order. Use this when someone does something worth a chef's kiss, like pulling off a perfect karaoke rendition of "My Way" without triggering any bad luck superstitions.

2. "Werpa"

In English: Power

Cultural Insight: "Werpa" is a product of "power" with a Pinoy twist, showing enthusiasm or encouragement. If your buddy finally lands a date, just give them a nod and say, "Werpa!" to send virtual cheers their way.

3. "Lodi"

In English: Idol

Usage Tip: When someone's skills or personality are top-tier, you call them your "Lodi"—yep, that's "Idol" backward. It’s the kind of nickname you bestow on your favorite Jollibee manager who just gives the most chicken joy.

4. "Charot"

In English: Just Kidding

Cultural Note: Drop "charot" at the end of a sentence to diffuse tension or clarify you’re pulling their leg. Think of it like playing a "just joking" card, especially useful when haggling at the Divisoria market and aiming to lighten the mood.

5. "Rapsa"

In English: Delicious/Yummy

Foodie Fun: "Rapsa" is "sarap" (delicious) in disguise, used often when you're digging into street food gold like fishball or kwek-kwek. If you're rolling in Tondo and hit the jackpot with some rapsa "tusok-tusok" (finger food), you're living like a local.

Want to sound like a local?
Try soundlike.app — the only translator that actually gets regional slang.

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