The Fascinating History and Revival of Abakadang Tagalog

Abakadang Tagalog is an ancient writing system that has been shrouded in mystery for centuries. As a scholar and enthusiast, I had always been fascinated by its unique characters and script. This article delves into the history and revival of Abakadang Tagalog, exploring its significance in Philippine culture and its impact on modern society.

As a Fulbright scholar completing my Master of Arts degree in music composition at the University of La Jolla in San Diego, I was introduced to Baybayin, an offshoot of Abakadang Tagalog. The idea for this manual was born out of a course I taught in 1979, where I stayed as a Fulbright scholar. However, it wasn't until I met Mang Emong, a well-versed expert in Baybayin and spiritual healer, that the concept of publishing an Abakadang Tagalog manual took shape.

Mang Emong was instrumental in initiating me into the spiritual aspects of Baybayin, which he believed held deep significance. He pointed out that the script's predominantly vowel 'a' resonates with the energy of the heart, indicating its soul-infused attribute. This insight sparked a deeper appreciation for Abakadang Tagalog and its importance in Philippine culture.

My fascination with Abakadang Tagalog began during my high school days when I would accompany my father to the house of Philippine national artist Guillermo Tolentino. He would show me his extensive Filipiniana collection, including books on Baybayin. One book that caught my attention was 'Salitikan ng Wikang Pambansa' printed in 1940, written by Aurelio Alvero. This book provided valuable insights into the script's characters and usage.

As I delved deeper into Abakadang Tagalog, I discovered its connection to Rizal's name, which is inscribed in the Baybayin script. This revelation sparked a newfound passion for learning more about this ancient writing system. With my father's guidance and support, I began to explore the script further.

Today, Abakadang Tagalog is an integral part of Philippine cultural heritage, with many enthusiasts working to preserve its significance. As we continue to learn more about this fascinating script, we are reminded of its importance in our shared history and culture.

Abakadang tagalog