August 1-31

National Language Month

It's time to brush up on your language skills and celebrate National Language Month with cultural events, language classes, and more!

Yearly Date
August 1
Type
Month

Introduction

Get ready to celebrate the diverse and beautiful world of languages on August 1 for National Language Month! This month-long celebration was first established in 1997 by former President Fidel V. Ramos to promote unity and understanding among the different linguistic groups in the Philippines. With over 170 languages spoken in the country, this holiday serves as a reminder to appreciate and preserve our unique cultural identities through language. From learning a new language to embracing your mother tongue, there are endless ways to honor National Language Month and celebrate the power of words. So let's come together and celebrate the richness of our nation's linguistic heritage!

National Language Month Timeline

1997
Establishment of National Language Month
National Language Month was first established by then President Fidel V. Ramos to promote linguistic unity and understanding in the Philippines.
2001
Inclusion in the School Curriculum
The Philippine government mandated the inclusion of Filipino language studies in the national curriculum from elementary to tertiary level.
2009
Linguistic Mapping Project Launch
The Linguistic Society of the Philippines launched a national mapping project to document all native languages spoken in the country.
2012
Mother Tongue-based Multilingual Education
The government implemented the Mother Tongue-Based Multilingual Education policy, allowing children to be educated in their native languages as a form of early learning.
2020
National Language Month Goes Virtual
Due to the global pandemic, celebrations were held virtually offering Philippine language courses and webinars to promote and preserve the country's linguistic diversity.

How to Celebrate National Language Month

1

Learn a new language

Challenge yourself to learn a new language during National Language Month. You can use apps, books, or attend a language class to expand your linguistic skills.

2

Host a cultural exchange night

Invite friends from different cultures and encourage them to teach each other basic phrases in their native language. This is a great way to celebrate the diversity of languages in the world.

3

Attend a language festival or event

Many cities hold language festivals or events during National Language Month. Attend one and immerse yourself in different cultures and languages through music, food, and activities.

4

Write a poem or song in a different language

Get creative and try writing a poem or song in a language you are learning or have always been interested in. This is a great way to practice your skills and express yourself in a different way.

5

Share your love for languages on social media

Spread awareness about National Language Month by sharing interesting facts, phrases, or quotes in different languages on your social media platforms. You may inspire others to learn a new language too!

Why National Language Month is Important

A

It celebrates diversity and culture

National Language Month is a time to celebrate the various languages spoken in your country. It is an opportunity to learn about different cultures, customs, and traditions, and to appreciate the richness and diversity of your community.

B

It promotes language learning

Language is a powerful tool that can open up new opportunities for personal growth, career advancement, and cultural understanding. National Language Month encourages people to learn new languages or improve their proficiency in existing ones, which can have numerous benefits in both personal and professional life.

C

It preserves linguistic heritage

With globalization and the dominant use of certain languages, smaller or minority languages are at risk of extinction. National Language Month aims to raise awareness about the importance of preserving these languages and promoting multilingualism. It helps to honor and protect the linguistic heritage of a nation.

National Language Month Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Jul 31
Monday
2024
Jul 31
Wednesday
2025
Jul 31
Thursday
2026
Jul 31
Friday
2027
Jul 31
Saturday