KWF calls for free exhibitmounting of ‘Filipino Ito!’

The Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino (KWF) calls on interested universities and organizations to mount “Filipino Ito!,” a free exhibit featuring different words from the native languages of the Philippines.

The exhibit aims to highlight the diversity of the national language and the native languages of the Philippines. The 27 chosen words, ranging from vakúl of the Ivatans to the lépa of the Samas, are already considered to be part of the national language.

Philippine native languages, 130 as of KWF’s latest count, are recognized as intangible heritage that serve as depositories of indigenous knowledge, culture, and memory.

Other words to be encountered are bánoy (Philippine eagle), buláwan (gold), malmág (tarsier), payyo (rice terraces), katarungan (native word for justice), and many more.

The exhibit has an interactive element that desires to convey to the masses the inclusive concept of the national language, especially to the Filipino youth.

It was first unveiled at the Senate and Congress of the Philippines as part of National Language month.

KWF will lend the exhibit materials for free. Request letters should be sent to komisyonsawika@gmail.com.