Under the theme “Filipino at mga Katutubong Wika: Wika ng Kapayapaan, Seguridad, at Ingklusibong Pagpapatupad ng Katarungang Panlipunan,” this year’s National Language Month pays homage to the native languages and their profound social dimensions that reach far beyond being a medium. According to the Komisyon ng Wikang Filipino (KWF), the Philippines, renowned as a linguistically diverse country, is a pivotal idea behind the inception of the message in this month’s commemoration.
From 'Linggo ng Wika' to 'Buwan ng Wika', President Fidel Ramos' Proclamation 1041 extended the week-long celebration which started August 13 until August 19— a birthday tribute to the Ama ng Wikang Pambansa, President Manuel Quezon— to encompass the entire month of August.
By emphasizing the recognition of all languages in the development of an integrated Philippines, holding this year's annual observance revisits the collective identity that brings us further and delves intricately on how fundamental language is as a social glue.
The powerful mobilizing force of language becomes apparent when we explore our history, marked by an archipelagic disadvantage. Yet transcending a supposed hurdle, the social cohesion that binds us today resembles a tapestry woven from threads of diverse colors.
While the multitude of languages spoken throughout the country could have immensely fragmented us, our understanding of language as not only a tool of communication but also a repository of cultural heritage that propelled social change serves to bridge these divides.
As we draw closer to the end of this month, may we be reminded that Buwan ng Wika is more than just a transient event of superficial display, highly fixated on donning a barong and uttering deep words.
Talking about depth, this should be channeled more on the profound reverence for cultural appreciation and preservation achieved in cultivating social awareness and immersing ourselves with the locals. Only then do we become truly receptive to the challenges of our national and native languages.
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