Success in the English Language?

“When working abroad, knowing English is a great advantage. The ability to speak English can bring you many opportunities. It opens up a world of information and communication for a person” (Why Learning English is Very Useful in the Philippines? The Importance of English in Education)

This statement bothers me for two reasons. Firstly, it is promoting letting Filipinos work in other countries instead of staying in the Philippines. The Philippines is not a perfect country, and it needs all the help it can get from anyone who is willing. It is hard to develop a country when all of its people leave to find jobs outside. Second, it says that English opens up a world of information and communication for a person. Although this statement is true, you can still get the same effects from speaking Filipino, the national language of the Philippines. It is also important to realize that there are so many other countries that are able to thrive without the use of the English language. Like China, Japan, Korea, and most first world countries found in the European region.

A reason why Filipino is struggling to become the language for official and business matters is the education system of the Philippines. At an early age, students are urged to learn English as it is the primary medium of communication in all levels from preschool to college. In addressing a problem, it is very effective and helpful to solve it from the root of the problem.

I believe that I am a victim of the Philippine education system. I am more comfortable with speaking in English than I am with speaking in Filipino. I feel that it takes a very big part of my being Filipino away from me; however, I also believe that I can advocate change for the generations to come that one day, Filipino will be used by the Filipinos.