Published on: Jun 13, 2026, 10:50 am by Edgar S. Godin
In the end, the spelling system of Bisaya, as adopted by the Akademiya, was also embraced by Silaw, Alimyon, and, according to Abel Gallardo in his article “Ang Panitik Dili Angay Lalisan Kondili Ayomon Alang Sa Kaayohan Sa Kadaghanan” (Bisaya, January 8, 2014), gradually implemented by Bag-ong Suga of the Duranos in Danao, Cebu. Moreover, it was supported by top government officials—indicating that this system was not merely a style book for a magazine but a convention respected and used by all newspapers existing at that time. It happened that Alimyon began to oppose when Editor Nazario Bas returned (as he was brought back to Bisaya as editor-in-chief replacing Candia in 1966) and was succeeded by Ben Sangalang, who, according to some, was not a true writer but merely a translator. Then, Silaw suddenly ceased publication, and Bag-ong Suga and Alimyon also disappeared from circulation. Only Bisaya remained, continuing to adopt and nurture the Lagda Sa Panitik (Literary Rule) up to the present.
DepEd Order No. 74 and the Unang Kongreso
When DepEd Order No. 74 was issued, mandating the use of mother tongues as medium of instruction in classrooms, I was called as a representative of Bisaya. The DepEd Region 7 collaborated with the Akademiyang Bisaya (in Cebu), now the Akademiyang Bisaya Foundation (ABF) (currently registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission under the new name Ang Bag-ong Akademiyang Bisaya Inc.), to prepare for the implementation of D.O. 74, particularly regarding Cebuano grammar and spelling. The “First Congress on Cebuano Language in Region 7” was held on April 14-15, 2011 at the Pavilion of DepEd Ecotech Center in Lahug, Cebu City. There, I learned that the ABF reaffirmed its support for the Bisaya spelling system through a resolution stating: “Agreeing that the spelling system of Bisaya Magazine and the Akademiya’s English Cebuano Dictionary will be used but with modifications to accommodate alternative spelling of words.” (Board Resolution No. 5, Nov. 19, 2010)
Discussion on Convention
In series of discussions or whenever there is a controversial issue on Cebuano grammar and literature, we often hear suggestions that all editors and writers should hold a congress or convention to settle or create new solutions to the problem. But on this issue of spelling turmoil, is this not the same issue that was previously resolved by the Akademiya Sa Dilang Bisaya? Does the argument over things already settled long ago still hold weight? Is it reasonable that every time there is a dispute, we immediately resort to a ‘convention’ without listening to or considering previous and established conventions? Will we progress if we keep starting from scratch? Even in legal traditions or conflicts between nations, solutions are always based on established conventions.
Well, I will allow that the table is ready for a new gathering. But what theory or concept can we say offers a clear solution to unity? Would we not just return to arguing about the three theories mentioned, since no new theory has emerged up to now?
Conclusion
To conclude, I repeat that for me, this spelling issue was resolved long ago. It just happened that subsequent editors and writers lacked sufficient interest to investigate the truth, causing it to gradually weaken and change. They seemed unaware of their responsibility. What a painful truth. What a waste of their previous efforts and beginnings. But it is not too late. Yes, it is not. (This article by Edgar S. Godin first appeared on the Bismag blog on February 5, 2014. In this reprint, the Akademiyang Bisaya remains unchanged. This is part of a series to deepen the analysis of Bisaya spelling. The publication of this series is with his permission. Godin is a former associate editor of Bisaya Magasin. Those who wish to contribute or share their knowledge of Bisaya literature may send to akademiyangbisaya@gmail.com)
