Decolonizing the Apostrophe: The Tboli Path to Cultural Assertion

As Buwan ng Wika begins, it’s an ideal time to reflect on how language shapes identity and culture. The Tboli community, an indigenous group in the Philippines, provides a compelling example as they strive to reclaim the accurate spelling and pronunciation of their name: Tboli, without the apostrophe.

Language is not just a means of communication; it is a powerful tool that shapes identity, culture, and how communities see themselves and are seen by others.

The Significance of the Apostrophe

For years, the name “T’boli,” with an apostrophe, has been commonly used. The origin of this apostrophe can be traced to early efforts by outsiders, particularly colonial administrators and missionaries, who aimed to phonetically represent the pronunciation in written form. While intended to capture the sound, this practice unintentionally altered the perception and understanding of the Tboli language. The apostrophe between the “T” and “b” was meant to indicate a glottal stop—a brief pause in sound common in many Philippine languages. However, this linguistic insertion also contributed to an exoticized view of the Tboli language, marking it as “different” or “other.”

The introduction of the apostrophe in ‘T’boli’ is a clear example of how external forces, often with good intentions, can inadvertently distort the essence of a community’s identity.

In reality, the name “Tboli” is pronounced with a subtle vowel sound akin to the English word “the,” without requiring a glottal stop. Although the Tboli-English dictionary developed by missionaries attempts to capture this nuance, the imposition of the apostrophe has led to a distorted understanding of how the name should be spoken. Removing the apostrophe is a step toward accurately reflecting the phonetic reality of the Tboli language and reclaiming the community’s linguistic identity.

Reclaiming the accurate pronunciation and spelling of ‘Tboli’ is more than a linguistic correction; it is an act of cultural empowerment.

Recently, members and advocates of the Tboli community, alongside the Blaan, have been calling for the removal of the apostrophe, arguing that it more accurately reflects their authentic linguistic identity. This movement transcends mere letters and symbols; it is about reclaiming control over how their identity is presented and understood.

A Broader Context of Apostrophe Usage

The issue of the apostrophe in indigenous names is not unique to the Tboli. Indigenous communities worldwide have experienced similar interventions where colonial languages imposed their phonetic and orthographic systems onto local languages. The introduction of unfamiliar letters or symbols has often led to mispronunciations and a skewed understanding of the language’s natural sounds. These changes, frequently made by colonial powers or external scholars, reflect broader power dynamics in which indigenous languages and identities were marginalized or altered to fit the colonizers’ frameworks.

In this context, removing the apostrophe is part of a larger effort to decolonize indigenous languages, allowing these communities to reclaim their narratives and linguistic heritage.

The Anthropological Dimension

The use of the apostrophe in “T’boli” is not just a linguistic issue but also an anthropological one. It symbolizes the broader influence of colonial power structures on indigenous cultures, where external forces sought to document and “civilize” what they perceived as primitive or exotic. The insertion of the apostrophe by outsiders can be viewed as an act of linguistic colonization, where the authentic voices and sounds of the Tboli were supplanted by an imposed phonetic system.

Language is not merely a collection of words; it carries the weight of history, power dynamics, and the struggle for self-determination.

By challenging this imposed spelling, the Tboli community asserts its right to define its language and identity on its own terms. It’s a rejection of the exoticism and misrepresentation long associated with their name.

Respecting Diverse Opinions

It’s important not to frame the discussion as simply “T’boli” being wrong and “Tboli” being right. There are varying perspectives within the Tboli community itself, with some members still preferring the traditional use of the apostrophe due to familiarity or personal preference. This diversity of opinion invites reflection and encourages listening to the voices within the community, recognizing that language and identity are deeply intertwined and should be approached with respect and consideration for the community’s own assertions and preferences.

True cultural respect comes from listening to the voices within a community, recognizing that there is no single narrative or correct approach.

In 2015, a gathering of Tboli elders for developing an Indigenous Peoples (IP) education curriculum for Tboli senior high schools marked a significant moment. The Tboli Council of Elders, led by Datu Benito Blonto, affirmed the use of “Tboli” as their marker of identity, resulting in the naming of the Tboli Sbu Senior High School. Located in Lake Sebu, this school ensures that younger generations of Tboli receive a culture-based education grounded in the community’s own linguistic and cultural practices.

A Broader Movement Toward Cultural Continuity and Revitalization

This issue is part of a larger movement among indigenous communities to reclaim their cultural identity and linguistic heritage from colonial influences. The Tboli people, along with other indigenous groups, are asserting their right to define their identities based on their language and cultural understanding.

Cultural continuity is not about freezing traditions in time; it is about allowing them to evolve while staying true to their roots.

However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that this movement is not about enforcing a single correct narrative but rather about recognizing the diversity of voices and perspectives within these communities. For instance, Gonzalo (2017) discusses similar issues among the Tagakolu people, who face various spellings of their name, such as Tagakaolo, Tagakaulo, and Tagacolo. This inconsistency reflects a lack of understanding and respect for the people’s self-identification and serves as a reminder of the ongoing need to decolonize language and honor how communities choose to define themselves.

Indigenous communities worldwide are challenging the remnants of colonial influence in their languages, striving to reclaim their narratives and cultural integrity.

Instead of focusing solely on preservation, indigenous groups emphasize cultural continuity and revitalization. This approach allows for the ongoing transmission of cultural knowledge while encouraging communities to renew and adapt their practices in meaningful ways.

Sesotunawa’s Role in Cultural Revitalization

Sesotunawa, a 100% Tboli-owned brand, plays a crucial role in supporting cultural continuity and revitalization. With the help of dedicated volunteers, Sesotunawa collaborates directly with Tboli artists to create handcrafted jewelry and homeware that reflect the rich heritage and vibrant artistry of the Tboli people. Each piece is not just a product but a celebration of Tboli identity, craftsmanship, and storytelling.

Through collaboration with local artists, Sesotunawa is more than a brand; it is a beacon of cultural pride and resilience.

As a Tboli-owned brand, Sesotunawa empowers the community by providing economic opportunities and a platform for cultural expression. This allows the Tboli people to share their stories with the world while preserving and revitalizing their cultural practices. Through its work, Sesotunawa ensures that Tboli culture remains dynamic and relevant in the modern world.

Karl Lozano, Sesotunawa’s co-founder, emphasizes that “IP communities are now using their agency to assert who they are based on how they know themselves, and that should be celebrated and honored.” This celebration of identity is central to Buwan ng Wika, as we recognize and uplift the diverse linguistic heritage of the Philippines.

Celebrating indigenous identity means honoring the ways communities choose to define themselves in the present, not just preserving the past.

Final Thoughts

As we celebrate Buwan ng Wika, let us recognize that language is a living testament to a community’s heritage and a powerful tool for shaping its future

As we celebrate Buwan ng Wika, let us remember the importance of language as a tool for empowerment and cultural continuity. By understanding and respecting the nuances of indigenous languages like Tboli, we contribute to a broader movement of cultural revitalization and respect. It’s not just about preserving the past but about honoring the way these communities choose to define and express themselves today.

Through brands like Sesotunawa, we honor the agency of IP communities and support their efforts to assert their identity on their terms. This August, let’s celebrate the rich tapestry of languages that make up our nation and commit to learning more about the stories and histories behind them. In doing so, we actively participate in the ongoing process of decolonization, where indigenous voices are not just heard but amplified.

References:

• Mindanews. “IP Advocates: No Apostrophes in Blaan, Tboli.” MindaNews, 2023.
• Rappler. “Drop that ‘offensive’ apostrophe in Blaan, Tboli – IP advocacy group.” Rappler, 2023
• “Passion for Mission: Tagakolu, Tagakaolo, Tagakaulo or Tagacolo?” MindaNews, 2021.
• Gonzalo, Marites T. “Ang ‘Kolu’ ug ang Pakigbisog sa Pagpatunhay sa ‘Pagka-Tagakolu.’” Ateneo de Davao University, 2017.
• Lozano, Karl. Personal Communication.