Preservation Habits towards Sustainable Use of the Filipino Language

Authors

  • Rasmil T. Abdurasul

    College of Teacher Education, Sulu State College, Jolo, Sulu 7400, Philippines
  • Pearly Jade E. Samilo

    Filipino Language Teaching Division–College of Education, West Visayas State University, Iloilo City 5000, Philippines
  • Neña Vanessa A. Cabiles

    Filipino Language Teaching Division–College of Education, West Visayas State University, Iloilo City 5000, Philippines
  • Jason V. Chavez

    School of Business Administration, Zamboanga Peninsula Polytechnic State University, Zamboanga City 7000, Philippines
  • Sar-Ana M. Abdurasul

    College of Humanities, Social Sciences and Communication, Basilan State College, Isabela City 7300, Philippines

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.30564/fls.v7i5.8573
Received: 27 January 2025 | Revised: 12 February 2025 | Accepted: 18 February 2025 | Published Online: 26 April 2025

Abstract

As English becomes more prevalent in education, media, and social interactions, the use of Filipino is gradually diminishing, especially among younger generations, who are more exposed to English in these domains. This shift often leads to the erosion of linguistic diversity, which many view as a threat to the cultural fabric and heritage of the nation. This paper explored the preservation habits of Filipino adults in ensuring the sustainable use of the Filipino language. Filipino adults (n=24) were purposively sampled to be interviewed about preservation habits that enabled the preservation of the language. Participants identified positive preservation habits, including practices such as setting aside specific times for speaking Filipino and engaging with Filipino media like movies, music, and radio. These behaviors were essential in maintaining language use in daily life, with participants emphasizing the role of positive reinforcement and supportive environments in encouraging continued language engagement. Cultural practices and family traditions were also essential, with Filipino language being prioritized during meals, bedtime, and family gatherings, thus encouraging a sense of connection between language and cultural identity. Participants shared how their parents actively instill the importance of speaking Filipino both as a cultural preservation mechanism and a means of honoring their ancestors. This modeling behavior created a connection between language and cultural identity, encouraging children to value Filipino as an integral part of their heritage. Nevertheless, there is an opportunity to integrate intentional language preservation habits, family traditions, and supportive environments in sustaining the use of the Filipino language across generations.

Keywords:

Culture; Language Preservation; Language Maintenance; Parental Support; Preservation Habits

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Abdurasul, R. T., Pearly Jade E. Samilo, Neña Vanessa A. Cabiles, Jason V. Chavez, & Sar-Ana M. Abdurasul. (2025). Preservation Habits towards Sustainable Use of the Filipino Language. Forum for Linguistic Studies, 7(5), 358–372. https://doi.org/10.30564/fls.v7i5.8573

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Vol. 7 , Iss. 5 (May 2025): In progress

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