Executive Order No.
335 Series of 1988
INTRODUCTION
Executive Order No. 335, signed by President Corazon
C. Aquino on August 25, 1988, enjoins all
departments/bureaus/offices/agencies/
instrumentalities of the government to take such steps as
are necessary for the purpose of using the Filipino
language in official transactions, communications, and
correspondence.
The Executive Order No. 335 Series of 1988
mandated the use of Filipino in official
transactions. This order aimed to promote the
use of the national language in government
operations and communications. It significantly
impacted the language landscape and cultural
identity of the Philippines.
The specific instructions of the Order are:
(1) to take steps to enhance the use of Filipino in official transactions,
communications, and correspondence in their respective offices, national and
local
(2) assign one or more personnel, as may be necessary, in every office to
take charge of all communications and correspondence written in Filipino
(3) translate into Filipino names of offices, buildings, public edifices, and
signboards of offices, divisions or its instrumentalities, and if so desired,
imprint below in smaller letters the English text
(4) Filipinize the “Oath of Office” for government officials and personnel
(5) make as part of the training programs for personnel development in
every office the proficiency in the use of Filipino in official transactions,
communications and correspondence.
For the implementation of the Order the CFL was directed to formulate
and implement programs and projects which include:
(1) Information campaign on the importance and necessity of Filipino as
an effective instrument for national unit and progress
(2) Translation into Filipino of Executive Order No. 335 as well as
government terms and phrases to be utilized as reference materials for all
offices
(3) Training of all government officials and personnel in use of Filipino.
(4) Monitoring of the implementation of the Order and
submitting periodic progress reports of implementation
directly to the office of the President of the Philippines
or through the Department of Education, Culture and
Sports (DECS).
(5) Taking into account other strategies for full
implementation of the objectives of the Order.
The Order does not prohibit the use of English in official
communications and correspondence, for the Constitution
provides that Filipino and English are the official
languages of the country. However, the regional languages
can be used as auxiliary languages in the regions and shall
serve as auxiliary medium of instruction therein, but shall
not replace Filipino and English.
All government departments, bureaus, offices, agencies
and instrumentalities, government-owned or controlled
corporations included, are not only expected to take the
necessary measures to promote the use of Filipino in their
official transactions, communications and correspondence,
in their respective offices and jurisdiction to accomplish
the objectives of the Order but also to internalize such
objectives; and officials and employees are expected to be
proficient in Filipino through seminars, workshops, and
other forms of training.
CHALLENGES AND IMPLEMENTATIONS
The implementation of EO 335 faced challenges such as
resistance from some sectors and the need for language
training for government personnel. Overcoming these
challenges required concerted efforts to promote Filipino
proficiency and cultural sensitivity in official settings.
For the speedy and effective implementation of the Order, the CFL has
prepared and published the necessary materials which include:
(1) Patnubay sa Korespondensya (1983 and 1987 editions).
(2) Alpabeto at Patnubay sa Ispeling ng Wikang Filipino.
(3) Salin sa Filipino ng mga Tanggapang Pampamahalaan.
(4) Mga Katawagang Pampamahalaan.
(5) Diksyunaryo ng Wikang Filipino.
(6) Manwal sa Korespondensya Opisyal, and several other
publications.
Impact on Language Use
The enforcement of EO 335 led to increased use of
Filipino in official transactions and communications. It
contributed to the preservation and promotion of the
national language, fostering a sense of linguistic pride
and identity among Filipinos.
CULTURAL
IMPLICATIONS
The use of Filipino in official transactions under EO 335
reinforced the cultural heritage and national identity of
the Philippines. It emphasized the importance of
language in shaping collective values, traditions, and
societal cohesion.
LANGUAGE DIVERSITY LANGUAGE
DIVERSITY
While promoting Filipino in official transactions is
important, it's crucial to recognize and respect the
diverse linguistic heritage of the Philippines.
Embracing language diversity contributes to a more
inclusive and culturally rich society.
CONCLUS
ION
The impact of Executive Order No. 335 Series of 1988 on
the use of Filipino in official transactions has shaped
language dynamics, cultural identity, and governance in the
Philippines. Balancing the promotion of the national
language with respect for linguistic diversity remains a
critical consideration for sustainable development.
“While a people preserves its language, it
preserves the marks of liberty.”
-Dr.Jose Rizal
Thank You
By: Jan Jazy Peñez and Josh Mykhail
Cristobal
