The Filipino language, often referred to as "Pilipino" before, evolved from the various regional languages of the Philippines. Its roots lie primarily in Tagalog, a language spoken by the majority of people in the central and southern parts of Luzon. During the Spanish colonial period (1565-1898), Spanish influences began to shape the local languages, especially in terms of vocabulary and pronunciation. The American colonial era (1898-1946) further reinforced the need for a common language, as English was introduced as the medium of instruction in schools. Despite the spread of English, local languages continued to thrive, and the need for a national language became more apparent.

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In 1937, the Philippine government officially declared Tagalog as the basis for the national language, known initially as "Pilipino." This decision aimed to unify the nation’s diverse linguistic groups. The name was later changed to "Filipino" in 1987 to reflect a broader and more inclusive language, incorporating words from various Philippine languages, as well as foreign terms. Over time, Filipino has become a symbol of national identity and unity, with its vocabulary enriched by both indigenous words and foreign influences like Spanish and English. Today, Filipino is one of the two official languages of the Philippines, alongside English, and is used in government, education, and media across the nation.