Hiligaynon Numbers: A Complete Guide to Counting in Ilonggo

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Table of Contents
1. Basic Numbers (Isa ka Numero)
2. Numbers from 11 to 19
3. Numbers from 20 to 90
4. Hundreds and Thousands
5. Everyday Use of Hiligaynon Numbers
6. Cultural Significance
7. Why Learn Hiligaynon Numbers?

The Hiligaynon language, also called Ilonggo, is one of the major languages in the Philippines, spoken widely in Iloilo, Guimaras, Negros Occidental, and parts of Mindanao. Like other Philippine languages, Hiligaynon has its own unique way of expressing numbers. Mastering numbers in Hiligaynon is not only useful for daily communication but also helps in understanding the culture and traditions of Ilonggos.

1. Basic Numbers (Isa ka Numero)

Here are the numbers from 1 to 10:

 1 – Isa
 2 – Duha
 3 – Tatlo
 4 – Apat
 5 – Lima
 6 – Anum
 7 – Pito
 8 – Walo
 9 – Siyam
 10 – Napulo

These numbers form the foundation. Once you know them, creating larger numbers becomes easy

2. Numbers from 11 to 19

Numbers beyond 10 are formed using the word “kag” (and):

  • 11 – Napulo kag isa
  • 12 – Napulo kag duha
  • 13 – Napulo kag tatlo
  • 19 – Napulo kag siyam

3. Numbers from 20 to 90

Tens are expressed by combining the root number with “ka pulo” (tens):

  • 20 – Duha ka pulo
  • 30 – Tatlo ka pulo
  • 40 – Apat ka pulo
  • 50 – Lima ka pulo
  • 60 – Anum ka pulo
  • 70 – Pito ka pulo
  • 80 – Walo ka pulo
  • 90 – Siyam ka pulo

To form numbers like 21, 35, or 47, simply add “kag” + the number:

  • 21 – Duha ka pulo kag isa
  • 35 – Tatlo ka pulo kag lima
  • 47 – Apat ka pulo kag pito

4. Hundreds and Thousands

  • 100 – Isa ka gatos
  • 200 – Duha ka gatos
  • 300 – Tatlo ka gatos
  • 500 – Lima ka gatos
  • 1,000 – Isa ka libo
  • 2,000 – Duha ka libo
  • 10,000 – Napulo ka libo

For larger numbers, combine them naturally:

  • 1,234 – Isa ka libo, duha ka gatos, tatlo ka pulo kag apat
  • 10,500 – Napulo ka libo kag lima ka gatos

5. Everyday Use of Hiligaynon Numbers

Numbers play a significant role in Hiligaynon daily life and culture. Some common uses include:

  • Market/Shopping:
     “Tagpila ini?” (How much is this?)
     “Pulo ka piso lang.” (Only ten pesos.)
  • Time:
     “Anong oras na?” (What time is it?)
     “Alas siyete na.” (It’s seven o’clock.)
  • Age:
     “Pila ka tuig ka na?” (How old are you?)
     “Bente anyos na ako.” (I am 20 years old.)
  • Games and Traditions: Counting is used in folk games like sungka, piko, and children’s rhymes.

6. Cultural Significance

Numbers in Hiligaynon aren’t just for counting; they carry cultural meaning. For example:

  • The number “isa” (one) is often associated with unity or beginning.
  • “Lima” (five) has significance in prayers and blessings (e.g., the five wounds of Christ).
  • Traditional stories and riddles (pakaton) often use numbers to make them easier to remember.

7. Why Learn Hiligaynon Numbers?

  • Cultural Preservation: Helps keep the language alive in younger generations.
  • Practical Use: Essential for shopping, commuting, and conversations in Hiligaynon-speaking areas.
  • Connection: Learning numbers fosters a deeper connection to the Ilonggo culture and identity.

Numbers in Hiligaynon are more than just words; they’re part of everyday communication, traditions, and identity. Whether you’re an Ilonggo learner, a student, or someone curious about Philippine languages, knowing how to count in Hiligaynon is a simple but powerful skill.

If you enjoyed learning Hiligaynon numbers, don’t miss our article on the Hiligaynon language and culture to discover more about Ilonggo heritage.

 

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