It's a very direct and heartfelt way to express love. It's often used in romantic contexts, but it can also be used to express deep affection for family, friends, or even pets.
Here are some examples of how it can be used:
* Mahal ko ang asawa ko. (I love my husband/wife.)
* Mahal ko ang mga anak ko. (I love my children.)
* Mahal ko ang pamilya ko. (I love my family.)
* Mahal ko ang aso ko. (I love my dog.)
Important Note: The word "mahal" alone can also mean "expensive" or "valuable". So, it's important to pay attention to the context to understand the intended meaning.