Analysis on “Muhon at Pasyok: Ang Diskurso sa Wika at Politika sa Unang Seksiyon ng The Language Problem of the Filipinos Monograph (1932) ni Dr. Manuel Viola Gallego” of Professor R.B. Abiva by Michelle G. Ramos (BS Nursing, 3rd Year) Manuel V. Gallego Foundation Colleges

 

 

                                                                       Kuha ang larawan sa MVGFC Conference Hall. (RB Abiva,2023)

Dr. Manuel Viola Gallego's monograph, The Language Problem of the Filipinos (1932), represents a significant contribution to the discourse on language and politics during the American colonial period in the Philippines. This essay analyzes the first section of the monograph, focusing on its key arguments, historical context, and implications.

American colonial administration over the Philippines in the early 20th century had a profound impact on the nation's linguistic regulations and sense of cultural identity. A critical analysis of these practices is provided in Dr. Manuel Viola Gallego's 1932 monograph, The Language Problem of the Filipinos, which highlights the significance of language in forming Filipino identity and politics. The monograph's first section, Muhon at Pasyok, uses metaphors to highlight Gallego's main points while highlighting the successes and failures in the evolution of the Filipino language and its political ramifications.

The historical background of the Philippines in the early 20th century must be considered while interpreting Gallego's writings. Spanish, which had been the language of the aristocracy during Spanish colonialism, was replaced with English as the main language of teaching in schools during this period by an American colonial government mandate. Gallego criticizes this program, claiming that by preventing the growth of a national Filipino identity based on its original languages, it maintained colonial domination. The monograph's metaphorical use of the terms "muhon" (milestone) and "pasyok" (hurdle) draws attention to both the obstacles—such as the imposition of foreign languages and opposition from traditionalist elites who preferred Spanish—and the milestones in the development of the Filipino language, such as the creation of a standardized grammar and vocabulary.

In his monograph, Gallego makes the case that language is an essential component of political power and national identity in addition to being a tool for communication. He argues that by denying the Filipino people access to political and educational opportunities, the American colonial authorities deliberately employed linguistic strategies to keep them under control. According to Gallego, the use of English in government and educational institutions has impeded the growth of a cohesive Filipino identity and widened linguistic divides. Gallego's efforts established the groundwork for Filipino's ultimate designation as the national language of the Philippines by promoting the languages' recognition and advancement as a way to strengthen national cohesion.

The Language Problem of the Filipinos, a 1932 book by Dr. Manuel Viola Gallego, is still regarded as a classic in the field of Philippine language and politics studies. By utilizing a metaphorical examination of "muhon" and "pasyok," Gallego challenges the language policies implemented during the American colonial era, advocating for the acknowledgment and advancement of Filipino languages as fundamental constituents of the country's identity. His contributions to language policy and education in the Philippines are still valued today, demonstrating the lasting impact of his work on the political and cultural landscape of the nation.

 

References

 

1. Gallego, M. V. (1932). The Language Problem of the Filipinos. Manila: [Publisher].

2. Tirona, L. (Ed.). (2005). Filipino Politics: Development and Decay. Quezon City: Ateneo de Manila University Press.