Traditional proverbs of Philippines in Khmer and English — each with its meaning and source.
Ang hindi marunong lumingon sa pinanggalingan ay hindi makararating sa paroroonan.
“He who does not look back to where he came from will never reach his destination.”
One must remember and honor one's origins and roots in order to succeed and move forward in life.
Source: Traditional Filipino proverb (salawikain), public-domain oral tradition; widely attributed in Philippine culture.
Kapag may tiyaga, may nilaga.
“If there is perseverance, there is stew.”
Patience and hard work eventually bring rewards.
Source: Traditional Filipino proverb (salawikain), public-domain oral tradition.
Nasa Diyos ang awa, nasa tao ang gawa.
“Mercy is with God, but action is with man.”
God helps those who help themselves; one must act rather than rely on prayer alone.
Source: Traditional Filipino proverb (salawikain), public-domain oral tradition.
Ang lumakad nang matulin, kung matinik ay malalim.
“He who walks too fast, if pricked by a thorn, is pricked deeply.”
Acting in haste leads to graver mistakes; caution is wise.
Source: Traditional Filipino proverb (salawikain), public-domain oral tradition.
Ang taong nagigipit, sa patalim kumakapit.
“A person in a tight spot will cling even to a blade.”
Desperation drives people to take dangerous or risky measures.
Source: Traditional Filipino proverb (salawikain), public-domain oral tradition.
Kung ano ang puno, siya ang bunga.
“Whatever the tree is, so is its fruit.”
Children reflect the character of their parents, and results reflect their source.
Source: Traditional Filipino proverb (salawikain), public-domain oral tradition.
Ubos-ubos biyaya, bukas ay nakatunganga.
“Spend all your blessings today, and tomorrow you will be left staring.”
Wastefulness and reckless spending lead to future want.
Source: Traditional Filipino proverb (salawikain), public-domain oral tradition.
Pag may isinuksok, may madudukot.
“If you tuck something away, you will have something to pull out.”
Saving in times of plenty ensures you have resources in times of need.
Source: Traditional Filipino proverb (salawikain), public-domain oral tradition.
Aanhin pa ang damo kung patay na ang kabayo?
“What use is the grass when the horse is already dead?”
Help or remedy that arrives too late is useless.
Source: Traditional Filipino proverb (salawikain), public-domain oral tradition.
Ang bayaning nasusugatan, nag-iibayo ang tapang.
“A wounded hero's courage only doubles.”
True bravery grows stronger in the face of hardship and adversity.
Source: Traditional Filipino proverb (salawikain), public-domain oral tradition.