GMA Artist Center held the second batch of its virtual workshop last October 28 for its talents as part of its “Breakout Room: Master Class” series. This time, award-winning journalist and former Vice President for Professional Development of GMA Network, Howie Severino, taught the “Baybayin” to more than 50 artists who joined the online workshop.

“Baybayin,” also known as “Alibata,” is the historical script of alphabet used by our ancestors in as early as 16th century. Severino shared the cultural significance of learning our very own ancient writing system.

“Bukod sa pagiging mga artista, kayo rin ay mga tinatawag na culture bearers. You represent not only our network but our culture. Not just popular culture, but our identities as Filipinos. And our identities are a product of what has come before us,” he said.

He also pointed out that keeping the Baybayin alive is also keeping a part of our identity as Filipinos. Our Asian neighbors like Thailand, Japan, China, and Korea have their own ancient writing system that is still being widely used until now and their sense of identity and nationalism are very strong.

“Maging mabuting ninuno. That’s another reason why we should all learn Baybayin. Generations from now, people will look back and say, this generation tried to keep our ancient writing system alive,” he added.

Present during the masterclass were Allen Ansay, Bianca Umali, Kyline Alcantara, Lexi Gonzales, Radson Flores, Matt Lozano, Claire Castro, Royce Cabrera, Zonia Mejia, Jamir Zabarte, Joaquin Manansala, Jen Maravilla, Jr Royol, Migs Villasis, Hannah Arguelles, Bryce Eusebio, Gab Yabut, Elias Point, Lia Salvador, Dentrix Ponce, Dave Duque, Kirsten Gonzales, Kimson Tan, Lime Aranya, Levince Sotto, Rain Matienzo and Sanya Lopez.

 

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