The Philippine Trial Lawyers Association (PTLA) has submitted a petition to the Supreme Court, requesting that courts across the country use the Filipino language during the upcoming Buwan ng Wikang Pambansa (Month of the National Language) celebration in August.
The proposal, led by PTLA president Pete Principe, aims to make the justice system more accessible to Filipinos who predominantly speak Filipino or other local languages. In a July 8 filing, Principe argued that Tagalog is the nucleus of the Filipino National Language and should be used in court proceedings.
The Constitution recognizes Filipino as the national language, while also acknowledging the country's many regional languages. However, critics have historically warned against equating Filipino solely with Tagalog, pointing out that many Filipinos, particularly outside Metro Manila and Luzon, speak Cebuano, Ilocano, Hiligaynon, Waray, Kapampangan, Bicolano, and dozens of other Philippine languages as their first language.
PTLA secretary general Yolando Lim cited the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte as an example of how the use of Filipino in court proceedings has made the process more accessible to the public. Lim noted that viewers are 'now strongly hooked on TV due to the very effective use of Tagalog by the prosecution and the defense panels.'
The proposal has reopened a broader conversation about the use of Filipino in national institutions, particularly in the education and government sectors. Advocates have pushed for Filipino to gain greater space in education and government, saying a national language should be used not only symbolically but also in official functions.
The Supreme Court is yet to decide on the petition, but the proposal has already sparked a debate over the meaning of 'Filipino' and its place in the country's legal system.
'Tagalog is the nucleus of Filipino National Language and is known as the major native tongue and widely recognized as the leading language out of around 176 languages all over the country,' Principe said in a filing.
According to the Constitution, Filipino is the country's national language, while English is also an official language for communication and instruction. However, the exact definition of 'Filipino' remains a contentious issue, with some linguists arguing that it has become distinct enough from Tagalog to be used as a national language.
The PTLA's proposal is likely to reopen the discussion on the use of Filipino in national institutions and its place in the country's legal system. If the Supreme Court grants the request, it may set a precedent for the use of Filipino in court proceedings and other government institutions.
The outcome of the petition will have significant implications for the justice system and the country's language policy. It remains to be seen whether the Supreme Court will grant the request and allow the use of Filipino in court proceedings during the Buwan ng Wikang Pambansa celebration.