Our native tongue speaks a lot about us as a nation. Communication through a language we call our own strengthens the bond between fellow Filipinos. It’s just sad that many of us continue to look down on the Filipino language (yes, you could enumerate former classmates and current students who abhor or find difficulty in tackling their Filipino subjects in school).
Pinoys usually mix its use with what is deemed as the “classier” English language. But the Filipino language, which is a combination of words from other native dialects spoken around the country (and should not be just construed as pure Tagalog), possesses the most interesting words and phrases even as it adapts to the ever-changing terminologies that we use today. As the “Buwan ng Wika” is about to close, ZUP asks its readers what their favorite Filipino/Cebuano terms are.
My favorite word would be "Tara." The word itself means "let's go". Hearing the word inspires me to get up from my bed every single day and do the things that I'm supposed to do to be a better version of myself. Joey Manguerra, 23, commercial basketball player/model
I like the word “Pakals”, which is a Cebuano slang for food usually offered for free during events or celebrations. Let’s face it, Filipinos definitely love to eat and I am no exception. Danielin Dico, 23, 5th placer June 2016 Architecture Licensure Examination
I’ve always been amused by the Cebuano term “hulmigason.” This is usually said of a couple being sweet and affectionate to each other. I love how you get a glimpse of the creativity and humor of the Bisaya with this one simple word. Audrey Faith Chua, 21, architectural apprentice
Puso. I believe this word is special not just to me but to all Filipinos, may it be used as a Tagalog or Bisaya word. Puso refers to the Filipinos’ ever-positive attitude towards challenges and the soft personality we have for everyone. Puso in Bisaya, as we all know and love, is the rice boiled inside a triangle-shaped woven coconut leaf pouch, which is considered a symbol of the Cebuano culture. Matthew Jose Estenzo, 17, student (University of San Carlos)