ORAL COMMUNICATION

PUBLIC SPEAKING

Submitted by: Shara Airish A. Acuna

Grade 11 - Pahl

Submitted to: Mr. Leomark Palang

Subject Teacher
 For the first time ever in Philippine history, this year’s celebration of
National Language month, also known as “Buwan ng Wika” highlights the
importance of different Philippine languages with the theme “Wikang
Katutubo: Tungo sa Isang Bansang Filipino". In accordance with the
celebration of International Year of the Indigenous Languages (IYIL) or
Pandaigdigang Taon ng mga Katutubong Wika as declared by UNESCO.
According to Ethnologue: Languages of the World, the number of
individual languages listed in the Philippines is 185 but out of these, only 183
are living and 2 are extinct. When it comes to living languages, 175 are
indigenous and 8 are non-indigenous. Most of these languages are brought
by the rich history and geography of our country. As we all know, the 1987
Constitution declares Filipino as the national language of the country. Along
with English, the said constitution designates Filipino and English as joint
languages. Other than that, the constitution is also the first to give recognition
to other regional languages. Through the declaration of this constitution, it
reveals the importance of what surrounds the meaning of what marks us as
Filipinos.
We are all aware that we, Filipinos are mostly multilingual. We would
speak Filipino when speaking in formal situations while we speak our
vernacular language or regional language specifically here in Davao, we use
Cebuano language or Bisaya when we are having a conversation at home or
with friends, in short in non-formal settings. Indeed, our country has many
dialects due to the variety of tribes, regions and ancient countries clustered
together.
So, the Commission on National Language shall formulate programs to
ensure the further development, enrichment, propagation, and preservation of
Filipino and other Philippine languages in accordance to Republic Act 7104.
These implies things such as native languages are in danger of disappearing,
for this reason they are in need of protection. The mother tongue are meant
to nurture the growth of national language itself. Can you imagine a country
without a language? The country without a language will always be in chaos
situation because of misunderstanding. Language is the soul of every nation,
it is a strong bond that bind us together as one nation.
 Lastly, I will ask you another question, what is really the importance of our
dialects? Is it really necessary to preserve them? Obviously yes, simply
because it enable us to have a sense of belonging. Each tribe has their own
dialect that makes them understand each other, it is the reflection of their own
culture. Giving importance to our native languages means giving importance
to our fellow countrymen that came from different tribes and traditions.
Together, as one nation we will work hand in hand for the preservation and
development of our national language and other Philippine languages for the
betterment of our country and our future generation. Good afternoon to each
and everyone and Mabuhay ang wikang Pambansa!