'Language evolves but identity stays': Why code-switching comes naturally to many Filipino migrants

For many Filipino migrants in Australia, speaking deep or formal Filipino isn't as common anymore, Taglish, or the mix of English and Tagalog or other local languages, is more natural in everyday conversations. But is this wrong, or simply part of how language evolves?

Code-switching is not a sign of confusion or language deficiency. Linguists view it as a complex, intelligent response to living in a multilingual environment.

Key Points

• While Filipino and English are the official languages of the Philippines, the country is home to more than 180 languages and dialects.
• Code-switching is the practice of switching between two or more languages within a conversation, or even a single sentence.
• Taglish isn't just a diaspora phenomenon. Even in the Philippines, it has become a widely accepted mode of communication according to linguists.

Listen to the podcast

'Language evolves but identity stays': Why code-switching comes naturally to many Filipino migrants

SBS Filipino

09:49Filipino

📢 Where to Catch SBS Filipino

🔊 On Air – Tune in to SBS Filipino on radio stations across Australia and website live stream, and TV Channel 302 from 10 AM to 11 AM AEST daily.

📲 Catch up episodes and stories – Visit sbs.com.au/filipino or stream on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Youtube Podcasts, and SBS Audio app.

📣 Follow Us on Social Media – Stay updated by following us on Facebook and Instagram.