English is a universal language. It is widely spoken in many countries around the world in many different circumstances, most especially in business and other academic setting. To further emphasize the great reach of the English language, it has engulfed the Filipinos since it was introduced by the Americans to be part of our educational system being one of the official languages used as a medium of instruction in classrooms. Fortunately, being exposed to the language and learning it at an early age affords us a plethora of advantages; one of which is our being able to communicate with the world.
A number of Filipinos take pride in their English skills. However, the belief about the Filipinos superiority in English among other Asian neighboring countries and non-English speaking countries is on the brink of becoming a myth. In my opinion, English in the Philippines has greatly deteriorated. Why do I say so? I have been an English Trainer to both professionals and paraprofessionals alike. And most of the professionals I have handled in my classes have the English communication skills which range from high beginner to high intermediate. This scenario is quite unlikely but the sad truth.
To rub more salt into the wound, some academicians, politicians, businessmen, lawyers, accountants, and even some journalists have undeniably embarked on the use of second-rate English for whatever reason it serves them. Others admittedly profess their inferiority with regards to the use of the language while others take pride despite the obvious diffidence. Our very own world boxing champ and lawmaker Manny Pacquiao is definitely not an exemption.
Recently, I have read an article entitled “Manny Pacquiao slams grammar critics on Twitter” dated Monday, March 21, 2011 8:36 AM PHT. This has caught my attention especially that many words have been said already about the issue. But before I would go into the different comments, I would like to share my two cents about this matter.
Manny Pacquiao is an icon not only to the Filipinos but to the whole world (please don’t call me exaggerated especially those who are against him) so it is expected of him to speak in a language that is understood by people from different linguistic orientation and background. In the said article, the boxing champ says that “it doesn’t matter of the grammar as long they understand the message thanks.” While to a certain extent I agree with his statement, I am more inclined to refute such claim. Why do I agree? It is because we have the so called local errors which do not necessarily affect the meaning of the sentence. For example, “Sheryl have a car.” The sentence still expresses clear meaning despite the obvious ungrammatical structure of the sentence should we consider the basic rule in subject-verb agreement.
Notwithstanding, one reason why I differ with his statement is that communication requires utmost clarity in meaning and that can only be established if the sentence is well-structured. This means that the sentence is free from fossilized errors in syntax and of course semantics. Clarity in meaning is universal and it should not be confined to only one cultural context. The whole world listening to you should understand you. Hence, I am steadfast with my claim that correctness in grammar is very important.
Furthermore, one should not only be concerned about his grammar. What other aspects should an individual consider to improve his English communication skills?
a. Pronunciation and Global comprehensibility. An individual should make sure that his pronunciation is clear and that L1 interferences should not affect the clarity of speech nor pose any difficulty to the listener. However, this doesn’t mean that a person should sound like a native speaker.
b. Language Range and Lexical Accuracy. This means that for an individual to communicate well, he must consider to use an array of grammatical structures (from simple to complex structures) accurately and correctly. Grammar counts but minor errors in structure which do not obscure meaning should never be taken a big issue.
c. Interactive Ability and Strategic Competency. An individual should not only possess the confidence in speaking the language in which Manny Pacquiao is oozing with. For an individual to be able to communicate well, he must have the ability to control the interaction. Also, he should know when to take turns. In addition, he should have the ability to repair miscommunication instantly. Finally, he should manifest excellent cultural understanding.
d. Discourse Capability. An individual should exude an excellent awareness of the discourse nature of the spoken texts. His speech must always be clear, logical and to the point. Moreover, he is able to build effectively on what has been said. He must be able to predict moves and take control of the interaction. He must think and react in English.
However, this issue has escalated to a more complicated thread of argument-counterargument. And worst, some of the points laid are striking below the belt? This led me to raise a question: Since when has the Philippines been a sanctuary of egocentric blabbermouths? Conversely, I commend those who post sensible comments.
As far as my understanding is concerned, some argue that since Pacquiao has brought honor to the country being a boxing champion, he is already exempted from negative criticisms. I believe that this is a cynical understanding of the real essence of criticisms. An individual regardless of his social status is always subject to either positive or negative criticisms. For an icon like Pacquiao himself, his fame does not exempt him from such disparagement. An act of heroism does not exempt one from criticism because being a hero is not tantamount to being perfect. However, everyone should be reminded that whenever we have some message to put across, it is always wise not to attack on a personal level. Instead, stay on the issue not on the person who we want to criticize. I mean freedom of expression means responsible expression.
On the other hand, before the supporters of Pacquiao incite a fist fight, I think it is also wise to look into reasons why he is being criticized. Why is there such a high expectation in Manny to speak English correctly if not fluently and perfectly? It is my resolve that Congressman Manny Pacquaio’s English is criticized because of the following reasons:
First, he is a world icon. He is expected to speak a global language correctly so he will be understood not only by the Filipino community but also by the members of the international community. It is imperative that his being an iconic figure makes him an ambassador of the Filipino people to the world and his being able to speak English plays a pivotal role to carry out such responsibility without being much dependent on translators.
Second, he has travelled to and stayed in English speaking countries and so he is expected to have mastered the language even without formal training. I believe that immersion is a great avenue for one to learn faster.
Third, he deals with foreigners most of the time and his immediate circle of support is composed of English speaking individuals like his promoter, coach, and sometimes sparring mates. This means that the need to speak the language is high and it should be one of his motivations to learn more and polish his skills.
Last, he is now a lawmaker. A lawmaker himself should be adept in the language spoken within the four walls of his respected office. Otherwise, his capacity to create laws will be questioned.
Finally, should I rate Rep. Manny Pacquiao’s English based on the article which can be found through URL: http://ph.news.yahoo.com/manny-pacquiao-slams-grammar-critics-twitter-20110320-173600-320.html, I would rate him 2.5 out of 5.0.
