Dr. Anicia H. Del Corro Named 2026 BAG Distinguished Professorial Chair Holder

The 2026 Br. Andrew Gonzalez FSC Distinguished Professorial Chair in Linguistics and Language Education has been awarded to Dr. Anicia Del Corro of the Philippine Bible Society. This honor recognizes her significant contributions to linguistics and language education, particularly through her work on the Pinoy Bible translations. Dr. Del Corro’s upcoming professorial lecture, titled "The Pinoy Bible, What's Next," promises to offer a deep and reflective look at the linguistic choices behind the Pinoy Bible New Testament (2018) and Old Testament (2023). Her work highlights the evolving nature of language in the Philippines and its role in shaping meaningful communication through biblical translation.

This post explores how the Pinoy Bible has influenced linguistic research and language education in the Philippines, focusing on the intersection of language variation, translation practice, and cultural identity.

The Pinoy Bible combines Tagalog and English in a way that reflects everyday Filipino speech.

Understanding the Pinoy Bible and Its Linguistic Context

The Pinoy Bible is unique because it uses a language variety often called Taglish or the Pinoy dialect. This urban language blend mixes Tagalog and English in natural, everyday speech. Unlike traditional translations that use formal or classical language, the Pinoy Bible embraces this hybrid language to connect more closely with Filipino readers.

Dr. Del Corro’s work began with a translation workshop in 2007, where the idea of using Taglish as a medium for biblical text was first explored. This approach acknowledges the reality of how many Filipinos communicate daily, especially in urban areas. The Pinoy Bible’s language reflects the dynamic and evolving nature of Filipino identity and culture.

Why Taglish Matters in Language Education

Taglish is often seen as informal or even incorrect by some language purists. However, it plays a crucial role in communication across generations and social groups in the Philippines. By using Taglish in the Pinoy Bible, Dr. Del Corro and her team challenge traditional views on language purity and open up new possibilities for language education.

This approach encourages educators and linguists to:

• Recognize the legitimacy of mixed language varieties in formal and educational contexts.

• Explore how language evolves naturally in multilingual societies.

• Develop teaching materials that reflect the linguistic realities of learners.

  
  

The Linguistic Decisions Behind the Pinoy Bible

Dr. Del Corro’s lecture will revisit the specific linguistic choices made in the Pinoy Bible translations. These decisions were not random but carefully considered to balance faithfulness to the original texts with accessibility for Filipino readers.

Key aspects of these decisions include:

• Lexical choices: Selecting words that resonate with everyday speakers while maintaining theological accuracy.

• Syntax and grammar: Reflecting natural speech patterns without sacrificing clarity.

• Code-switching: Using English and Tagalog strategically to enhance understanding and emotional impact.

  
  

These choices illustrate how translation is both an art and a science, requiring deep knowledge of language, culture, and audience.

The Role of Language Variation in the Philippines

The Philippines is home to over 170 languages and countless dialects. This linguistic diversity poses challenges for translation and education but also offers rich opportunities for cultural expression.

The Pinoy Bible’s use of Taglish highlights broader questions about language variation:

• How do different language varieties coexist and influence each other?

• What role do intentional and unspoken decisions play in shaping language use?

• How can educators and translators respect this diversity while promoting effective communication?

  
  

Dr. Del Corro’s work shows that embracing language variation can lead to more inclusive and relevant educational materials.

Practical Implications for Language Education

The Pinoy Bible project has practical lessons for language educators in the Philippines:

• Curriculum design: Incorporate mixed language varieties to reflect students’ real-life language use.

• Teacher training: Prepare educators to understand and value language variation.

• Material development: Create resources that use accessible language without compromising content quality.

  
  

These steps can help bridge the gap between formal education and everyday communication, making learning more engaging and effective.

Looking Ahead: The Future of the Pinoy Bible and Language Education

Dr. Del Corro’s lecture will also explore what’s next for the Pinoy Bible and its impact on linguistics and education. As language continues to evolve, so will the ways we teach and translate.

Possible future directions include:

• Expanding the use of Taglish and other mixed varieties in educational and religious materials.

• Conducting further research on the sociolinguistic aspects of language use in the Philippines.

• Strengthening collaborations between linguists, educators, and translators to develop innovative approaches.

  
  

The Pinoy Bible serves as a model for how language can adapt to meet the needs of diverse communities while preserving cultural identity.

The recognition of Dr. Anicia Del Corro with the 2026 Br. Andrew Gonzalez FSC Distinguished Professorial Chair highlights the importance of her work in shaping conversations around language use in the Philippines. The Pinoy Bible is more than a translation; it is a reflection of Filipino life, language, and faith.

For those interested in linguistics, language education, or cultural studies, Dr. Del Corro’s upcoming lecture on February 28, 2026, at De La Salle University offers a valuable opportunity to learn from her insights and experiences.

This event is hosted by De La Salle University’s Br. Andrew Gonzalez FSC College of Education, the Department of English and Applied Linguistics, and the Linguistic Society of the Philippines. It celebrates academic leadership and the ongoing commitment to advancing language education in the country.