The month of August marks the Philippines’ National Language Month or “Buwan ng Wika “

This national commemoration used to be “Linggo ng Wika” or National Language Week, normally a week-long celebration every 13th – 19th of August, coinciding with the birthday of former Philippine president – Manuel L. Quezon, known as the “Ama ng Wikang Pambasa” or Father of the National Language. However in 1997, by a president proclamation, it was declared to be a month-long celebration not only to give importance and appreciation to the Philippine language particularly to all Filipino children and youth, but also to appreciate the Filipino culture as a whole.

National Language Week is observed and celebrated yearly in all schools in the Philippines by having programs and activities focussed on the Filipino language. Activities include: performing group oration or “sabayang bigkas,” wearing of national costumes, performing national and native dances, singing Filipino folksongs and engaging in Filipino traditional street games.

This year, the Filipino children will be going to each room and teach some Filipino words.

Here are some common Filipino words/greetings:

Ku-mus-ta: Hi or hello

Ku-mus-ta ka? : How are you?

Ma-bu-ti na-man : I am good

Sa-la-mat : Thank you

Ma-ra-ming Sa-la-mat : Thank you very much

Ma-gan-dang u-ma-ga : Good morning

Ma-gan-dang ha-pon : Good afternoon

Ma-gan-dang ga-bi : Good morning evening

Pa-a-lam : Goodbye