English Rule

In elementary, I was asked to pay 1 peso for speaking in Filipino or Bicol.

In high school, I was a survivor of the English Zone Rule and Word Master Clinic. Those caught in speaking in Filipino or Bicol had their IDs confiscated. To claim the IDs, they must first pass a test at the Word Master Clinic. I forgot the other mechanics but basically this was the rule.

Ponder on this. We are in the Philippines, yet we are sanctioned for speaking our own language.

I pity myself for realizing this just now. I should've not payed 1 peso everytime I spoke in my native tongue. It was foolish.

I understand the need to be fluent in English. But, we also have the need to be fluent in Filipino, right?

To my peers, look at ourselves. It's a shame that there are some (or many) who cannot speak well in Filipino. Including me.

I also understand that the Philippines had been infested by Spanish, American and other foreign influences. I am also aware of our mental coloniality. Even I possess this kind of thinking.

Why am I saying this? What do I want? I know we can't easily wipe out the mentality. But we can do something to preserve the nation's priceless possession: the Filipino language. What I wish to see is MODERATION. There is nothing wrong with purchasing imported products or learning the English language. Just don't forget that there are a lot of local entrepreneurs and businessmen who will benefit a lot from our investment.

And please please please, don't be ashamed if you can't communicate well with English speaking Filipinos and foreigners, BE ASHAMED if you can't speak well in Filipino!

Hoy Pilipino, matuto kang mag-Pilipino!