Translanguaging for Empowerment and Equity

Translanguaging for Empowerment and Equity: Language Practices in Philippine Education and Other Public Spaces, edited by Maria Luz Elena Nabong Canilao and Robin Atilano De Los Reyes, offers a critical examination of the role of translanguaging in promoting linguistic justice and social equity in the Philippines. Published by Springer in 2024, this volume situates itself at the intersection of multilingual education, postcolonial studies, and sociolinguistics, addressing the persistent effects of colonial language policies that have historically marginalized local languages and their speakers. By exploring translanguaging practices across various domains—from classrooms to media and legal settings—the book argues for the decolonial potential of translanguaging as a tool for reclaiming linguistic and cultural identities. This review critically evaluates the book using the Five C's approach introduced by Author (2024), focusing on its context, content, strengths and weaknesses, comparisons with other key works in the field, and overall contributions to the discourse on multilingualism and equity.