The Ilocano language is a member of the Austronesian language family, primarily spoken in the northern regions of the Philippines, particularly in the province of Ilocos. It serves as the lingua franca for many communities in this area and is the third most spoken language in the country. Ilocano has its own unique grammar and vocabulary, with influences from Spanish and English due to historical interactions. The language is also rich in oral traditions, including folk tales and songs, which reflect the culture and values of the Ilocano people.