Parental Support in Developing the Love and the Use for the Filipino Language

Abstract

Globalization has significantly influenced language preference among younger Filipino generations by promoting the widespread use of English as the dominant medium in education, technology, and international communication. The pervasive presence of global media, digital platforms, and multinational corporate cultures has led to increased exposure to and reliance on English, often at the expense of local languages such as Filipino. To address the growing preference for foreign languages, this paper explores how parental involvement and support can help instill a love and interest in the use of the Filipino language. Filipino parents (n = 25) from Central Visayas, Philippines were purposively sampled for interviews about their language teaching strategies at home. Narratives from one-on-one interviews were analyzed to identify general themes that reflected the personal strategies employed. The findings indicated that parents intentionally created language-rich environments through everyday interactions, media immersion, and the integration of literature and cultural practices. These efforts helped normalize the use of Filipino, anchoring it emotionally and culturally within the child’s daily life. Participation in traditions, preparing native delicacies, and engaging in festive activities provided contextual learning opportunities that strengthened linguistic and cultural identity. Positive reinforcement and encouragement were crucial in enhancing children’s confidence and motivation to use the language. Structured repetition through songs, games, and guided conversations also contributed to the internalization of vocabulary and grammatical structures. Educational institutions and policymakers may build on these insights by designing family-centered language programs and community-based initiatives that empower parents as active agents in language preservation.