The Philippines is home to over 175 languages, with Filipino and English being the official languages. Filipino, based on Tagalog, serves as the national language and is widely spoken across the country. Other major languages include Cebuano, Ilocano, and Hiligaynon, each associated with specific regions and cultural groups. Many of these languages belong to the Austronesian language family, which is one of the largest language families in the world. The linguistic diversity reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines, where various ethnic groups contribute to the vibrant tapestry of languages spoken throughout the archipelago.