BALANGA CITY -- The Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino (KWF) opened a Bahay-Wika in Abucay town which will teach and preserve the Ayta Magbukun language of Bataan.

KWF Chairperson Virgilo Almario said this is the first Language Immersion Program in the country that aims to revitalize native languages which are at risk of disappearing.

“Language is part of our culture and history so we should preserve it and pass to the next generation,” Almario stressed.

Data from KWF show that there are 131 recognized languages in the country wherein about 30 are endangered that need to be preserved.

Abucay Mayor Liberato Santiago expressed his gratitude towards KWF for giving importance to the native tribe in his town.

“This project of KWF means a lot to our community especially to a small tribe in our town that’s why we should not waste this opportunity given to us,” Santiago said.

Provincial Government of Bataan provided the structure that will be used for the program.

Ayta children who are to five years old and below will be taught by their elders to learn their endangered language. (PIA)