In this era where we are dominated by different cultures and influences, our own culture still fascinates us. In fact, Baybayin, our ancient writing system is gaining more and more attention. This pre-colonial script is a part of history, and people deserve to learn how to write in Baybayin symbols. And so, to further inform people about Baybayin, the Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1) begins a journey to the past through their Gabay Guro Train.

Gabay Guro is a flagship program of the PLDT-Smart Foundation that provides abundant support to teachers nationwide. In partnership with the Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC), the annual Gabay Guro Train travels once again in celebration of the National Teachers’ Month.

Each of the three train cars features a different theme than the other. One car shows how we can use Baybayin to spell out our colloquial words like petmalu and astig; others show Pinoy riddles or bugtong on the train doors.

The other car takes us way back as the Spanish Colonization era. Fan of history? The train doors are adorned with pictures of our Filipino writers like Jose Rizal, Andres Bonifacio, Leona Florentino, and Andres Bonifacio. Find the lines of their notable works on the doors. We wouldn’t blame you if you’ll feel a legit binibini or ginoo while traveling.

Gabay Guro train doesn’t stop at the Philippine Spanish occupation. The train transports us further to the pre-colonial Philippines. The train cars display different ethnic groups from North to South—Filipino vibes all around!

Baybayin brings us closer to our history and identity as Filipinos. The Gabay Guro LRT-1 train makes everyone aware of our own writing system through art. As LRMC CEO and President Juan Alfonso says, understanding this way of writing will make us also understand ourselves and our culture, especially the young generation.

“‘Yung Baybayin, yung history natin, in general, kailangan ma-apreciate ng kabataan natin kasi diyan tayo nanggaling eh. Diyan tayo nagiging unique,” he added.

Catch the Gabay Guro train on the LRT-1 tracks this September. Have a fun and cultural journey ahead!