Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 15) — The Department of Education (DepEd) has changed a word in the national pledge “Panatang Makabayan” after recommendations from agency officials and experts.
In a Deped Order dated Feb. 14, the amendment of the term “nagdasaral” to “nananalangin” would make the pledge more “inclusive” and ” appropriate,” as it does not specify any religion.
The department’s Office of the Undersecretary for Curriculum and Teachings and various linguistics organizations said the word “nanalangin” is “inherent and integral in Filipino identities as it is rooted in Tagalog.”
\”It encompasses indigenous Cultural Communities and Indigenous Peoples and the individuals belonging to Muslim and Moro communities,\” DepEd said.
“‘Dalangin‘ is more spiritual and universal than ‘dasal,‘” it added.
Data provided by the Philippine Bible Society showed that native words are preferred when the Bible is being translated into different Philippine languages.
According to the Pambansang Samahan ng Linggwistika at literaturang Filipino, “nanalangin” is a more inclusive and more solemn choice of word as it is well thought of and extensively researched.
The Linguistic Society of the Philippines also found the word “nananalangin” to be well written and sufficiently rationalized.
Below is the revised “Panatang Makabayan“
Iniibig ko ang Pilipinas
aking lupang sinilangan
tahanan ng aking lahi;
kinukupkop ako at tinutulungang
maging malakas, masipag at marangal.
Dahil mahal ko ang Pilipinas,
diringgin ko ang payo
ng aking mga magulang,
susundin ko ang tuntunin ng paaralan,
tutuparin ko ang tungkulin
ng mamamayang makabayan;
naglilingkod, nag-aaral, at nananalangin
nang buong katapatan.
Iaalay ko ang aking buhay,
pangarap, pagsisikap
