In the heart of Cavite City, the Chabacano Caviteño language continues to echo the vibrant history of the galleon trade. Centuries ago, Cavite Puerto thrived as a crossroads of Filipino workers, Spanish settlers, and mestizos, each contributing to the birth of a creole language unique to our shores. Chabacano Caviteño is not merely a set of words. It is the voice of our ancestors, a living testament to resilience, survival, and unity.
Our journey to preserve this heritage began humbly. What started as the dream of a single book, with merely a cover designed during the pandemic in 2020, became reality to a real book in 2024. Since then, that spark has grown into dozens of children’s books and zines in ways I never imagined. None of this was planned, yet all of it felt meant to be.
Yesterday, we reached a milestone: the very first book entered its trial phase in a barangay class.
What made it extraordinary was that those who brought it to life were not native speakers. They proved that with heart, creativity, and belief, even non-speakers can move mountains. They showed us that preserving Chabacano is not only the work of those who grew up speaking it, but of anyone who recognizes its value.
This has taught me a powerful truth: in advocacy, we don’t need everyone to have the same background or skill. What matters is a team’s willingness to work together, to challenge each other, and still meet at the same goal in this case the welfare and growth of every Caviteño. Differences will spark debates, but unity is forged when we hold on to a shared vision.
I always believe everything begins with one small voice and a handful of believers. Over time, that voice gathers strength, grows into a movement, and becomes a flame. And once ignited, that flame has the power to inspire generations to come.
#Chabacano #Chavacano #ChabacanoCaviteño
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