visaya

Visaya, also spelled Bisaya, refers to the group of languages and the peoples associated with the Visayas, a central region of the Philippines, as well as to some communities in nearby areas. In linguistic terms, the Visayan languages form a branch of the Austronesian language family. The most widely spoken Visayan languages are Cebuano, Hiligaynon (also called Ilonggo), and Waray-Waray. Other languages in the group include Aklanon, Karay-a, Masbateño, and several smaller varieties. Collectively, Visayan languages are among the Philippines’ most spoken language groups.

Geographic distribution: Visayan-speaking communities are concentrated in the Visayas island group and in parts of Mindanao and Luzon, with diaspora communities around the country and abroad. The term Bisaya is used both to refer to the languages and to the people who identify with this linguistic group.

Classification and writing: Visayan languages belong to the Malayo-Polynesian branch of the Austronesian family. In modern use, they are written with the Latin alphabet. Historically, various indigenous scripts were used in the region, but today Latin-based orthography is standard in education and media.

Status and usage: Visayan languages have a strong presence in local education, media, and daily communication in their regions. Cebuano is the most widely spoken Visayan language, with substantial communities of speakers of Hiligaynon and Waray-Waray. The languages support a rich oral and literary tradition and are active in contemporary media, literature, and online communication.