In a meaningful tribute to Filipino culture and solidarity, the Filipino Club Bahrain (FCB), in partnership with various community organizations, officially launched a special video documentary on August 27, 2025. This initiative represented the conclusion of the Buwan ng Wikang Pambansa (National Language Month) celebration, conducted under the evocative theme, “Cultivating Filipino and Native Languages: Historical in National Unity.
The theme for this year highlights the significance of both the national language and local dialects in preserving and enhancing national identity and pride as Language is essential in promoting unity among Filipinos.
Rosemarie Hernandez, the president of the Filipino Club Bahrain, emphasized the necessity of valuing and safeguarding the Filipino national language and native dialects in our rapidly evolving world.
“In an era of swift change, it is increasingly vital to appreciate our national language and native dialects—because within each word resides our history, culture, and identity as a nation,” Hernandez stated in the video project.
She further remarked:
“We can articulate the depths of our hearts and minds more profoundly in our own language, which is why it can be challenging to express emotions or thoughts when using another language.”
Hernandez also urged Filipinos, particularly the youth, overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), and those residing abroad, to persist in embracing and advocating for the use of the national language—not merely as a tool for communication, but as a representation of the Philippines’ heritage and essence.
The video documentary initiative united several community leaders and was executed in coordination with the Wika Toastmasters Club, where Hernandez additionally holds the position of president, in conjunction with ALSE OF-LIFE and the Philippine Dance Crew (PDC).
Performers and Contributors are: Narrator: Mariesette Ordanza; Tagalog: Rosemarie Hernandez; Cebuano: Jeson Pantojas; Ilokano: Ramon Angel; Hiligaynon: Zeus Saliganan; Waray: Arthur Basbas; Kapampangan: Reiner Carreon; Bicolano: Janeth Amistad; Pangasinan: Lee Jaspher; Production Team: Director / Videographer / Editor / Music & Design: Michael Joshua dela Cruz (MJDC Design); Scriptwriter: Melinda Nomananap; Floor Director: Rhema dela Cruz; Gaffers: Reiner Carreon, Melissa dela Cruz.
Buwan ng Wikang Pambansa (National Language Month), previously referred to as Linggo ng Wika (Language Week), is an annual month-long observance in the Philippines that takes place every August to promote the national language, Filipino, alongside the country’s diverse cultural heritage.
The WIKA Toastmasters Club represents a dynamic and significant segment of Toastmasters International, committed not only to enhancing communication and leadership abilities but also to fostering the Filipino language and Philippine culture through structured training. What distinguishes this club is its objective to elevate the Filipino language to a global stage. Even during the peak of the pandemic, WIKA TMC flourished, conducting regular virtual meetings via Zoom and sustaining its advocacy.
Its objectives highlight the significance of the Filipino language—not only within the Philippines but also for Filipinos living abroad. WIKA TMC advocates not only for the use of the language but also for the appreciation of culture, unity, and the promotion of peace and brotherhood through language.
The contributions of its leaders have played a crucial role in shaping its success. DTM Amor dela Cruz, who established the first Filipino-language Toastmasters Club in District 20 in 2021, set the groundwork for this historic achievement. Currently, DTM Rosemarie Hernandez is continuing to build upon that legacy, guiding WIKA TMC towards greater accomplishments and ensuring that the Filipino language is celebrated, valued, and recognized across borders.
