August was a month bathed in the warm glow of Filipino pride. It observed the culmination of linguistic excellence. The nation celebrated its language and honored its champions. The Filipino Language Commission (KWF) transformed the opulent halls of Dusit Thani Manila. It became a sanctuary of words. The power and beauty of the Filipino language took center stage.
The 2024 Filipino Language Award was more than just a ceremony; it was a proclamation of the language’s enduring spirit. This year’s theme, “Filipino: A Liberating Language,” resonated deeply. It underscored the language’s role as a catalyst for unity. It highlighted education and empowerment.
The night belonged to luminaries who dedicated their lives to nurturing the Filipino tongue. Aurora State College of Technology and Sorsogon State University were crowned the Culture of the Year. Their unwavering commitment to preserving and promoting Filipino culture earned them the highest honor. Bicol University, Catanduanes State University, and Cebu Normal University stood out with the Seal of Excellence in Language and Arts. These universities made undeniably exceptional contributions to linguistic development.
Two pillars of academia, Dr. Raquel E. Sison-Buban, and Dr. Dolores R. Taylan were bestowed with the prestigious Filipino Language Honor. Their profound scholarship, coupled with a lifelong passion for the language, made them worthy recipients of this esteemed recognition.
The night would not be finished without acknowledging those who tirelessly champion the Filipino language on various fronts. Raymund M. Pasion, Nora J. Laguda, Almayrah A. Tiburon, Joel B. Lopez, and Cristina D. Macascas were hailed as Language Champions, their work serving as an inspiration to future generations of language advocates.
As the echoes of applause faded, the spirit of the Filipino language remained. It is a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of passion, intellect, and unwavering dedication. The 2024 Filipino Language Award was more than just a celebration. It reaffirmed the language’s enduring power to unite. It has the ability to inspire and liberate.
