Baybayin: The Ancient Script of the Philippines (Physical Book)

The complete 74-page guide to the 1976 Mendoza system. While standard charts focus on the 17-glyph historical script, this manual documents the expanded 43-glyph framework for precise spelling of modern names. Authored by a Fulbright scholar, it features systematic exercises and clear historical context. No language fluency required. High-quality print edition. Ships worldwide.

$39.95 USD
Buy Now

A Structured Guide to the 1976 Mendoza System

Explore the documented 43-glyph framework for writing modern names and foreign words with phonetic precision.

Choosing Your Approach: Approximation vs. Precision

The Traditional Method (17 Glyphs)

Most resources focus on the pre-colonial script, which requires phonetic adaptation for modern names:

Modern NamePhonetic ResultNote
JohnDya-NAdapts J to D-Y
CharlieTSyar-LiAdapts Ch to T-S
JenniferDye-ni-perAdapts F to P

While historically authentic for pre-colonial Tagalog, this 17-glyph scope does not include characters for modern sounds.

The Mendoza Expanded Method (43 Glyphs)

This manual documents the 1976 expansion for precise transliteration:

  • John → J-o-h-n (Precise)
  • Charlie → Char-li-e (Precise)
  • Jennifer → Je-nni-fer (Precise)
  • Victor → Vic-tor (Precise)
  • Enables specific spelling for contemporary names as they are actually pronounced.

Manual Content & Scope

  • Comprehensive Character Set: 17 traditional glyphs + 26 documented expansions for modern sounds (J, Ch, F, V, Z, Q, X, Th).
  • Systematic Learning: 44 progressive exercises building from basic strokes to complex composition.
  • No Language Barrier: Designed for learners of all levels; no Filipino language fluency required.
  • Structural Context: Insights into the formation logic and heritage of the Mendoza framework.
  • Scholarly Foundation: A bibliography spanning 1593 to 1990 for deeper research.

A Focused Methodology

This 74-page manual prioritizes structural logic and clarity. Developed through 40 years of community teaching, it provides a functional, systematic path to learning the script without unnecessary filler.

Professional and Cultural Utility

✓ Heritage Preservation: For the diaspora seeking to document modern names using a structured, historically-informed system.

✓ Design & Tattoo Artistry: Provides the precision required for permanent applications where character-for-character accuracy is preferred.

✓ Educational Settings: A structured curriculum for K-12, university, or community workshops looking for documented methodology.

About the Author & Scholarly Lineage

Bayani Mendoza de Leon (1940-2013) was a Fulbright scholar who studied under National Artist Guillermo Tolentino. He dedicated four decades to teaching Baybayin in Filipino American communities across San Diego and New Jersey.

As the nephew of Ricardo B. Mendoza, Bayani de Leon preserves the 1976 expanded system formally proposed to the Institute of National Language (Surian ng Wikang Pambansa). This manual remains the definitive documentation of that structural lineage.

Book Specifications

  • Pages: 74
  • Size: 8.5″ × 11″
  • Binding: Perfect bound (Softcover)
  • Cover: Full color glossy
  • Ships: Worldwide
  •  

💡 Digital Design Options

Looking for the font? The Digital Learning System includes the digital PDF + the 43-glyph font + reference chart + commercial license for $67.

Or choose the Complete Learning System for the physical book, digital files, font, and canvas wall chart.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need to speak Filipino to use this book?

A: No. The manual is designed for English speakers and provides clear, step-by-step instructions regardless of language fluency.

Q: Is this system historically “correct”?

A: This manual distinguishes between the pre-colonial script and the 1976 modern expansion. It provides the historical foundation for the former and the structural logic for the latter.

Q: What is the difference between this and free online charts?

A: Most online charts blend various styles or only offer 17 glyphs. This is a 74-page curriculum based on a specific, institutionally documented proposal, providing systematic exercises and consistent rules.


Study the 1976 Mendoza Framework

A structured approach to the past and present of the Philippine script.

Related Products

Complete Baybayin Reference Chart (Printable)

Complete Baybayin Reference Chart (Printable)

High-resolution printable reference guide displaying all 43 Baybayin glyphs plus punctuation and marking usage. Print unlimited copies at home or professional print shop. Multiple size templates. Perfect for students creating desk references, teachers printing classroom sets, tattoo artists making portfolio sheets. Exclusive to Digital and Complete Learning Systems. Not sold separately.

Complete Baybayin Reference Chart (16"x24" Canvas Print)

Complete Baybayin Reference Chart (16"x24" Canvas Print)

Museum-quality 16×24" canvas displaying all 43 Baybayin glyphs with pronunciation guide. The ONLY complete reference chart available—free charts show only 18 glyphs and can't reference modern names correctly. Perfect for tattoo studios, classrooms, cultural centers. Gallery-wrapped, ready to hang. Professional wall reference for accurate name translations. Not available anywhere else. Ships worldwide.

Baybayin: Complete Learning System

Baybayin: Complete Learning System

The 1976 Mendoza system’s complete physical and digital framework. Includes the 74-page manual, the expanded 43-glyph font collection with a commercial license, a 16×24" canvas chart, and printable guides. Enable precise typing for modern names beyond the 17-character limit. A $279.90 value for $97. Instant digital access plus worldwide book shipping.

Baybayin: Digital Learning System

Baybayin: Digital Learning System

The complete 1976 Mendoza digital framework. Includes the 74-page manual, a printable reference guide, and expanded 43-glyph fonts for precise modern transliteration. Unlike standard 17-glyph sets, this system enables distinct typing for names like John, Charlie, and Jennifer. Includes a commercial license for the fonts and instant download. No language fluency required.

BMD Baybayin Font

BMD Baybayin Font

Complete 43-glyph Baybayin fonts—the ONLY one that types modern names correctly. Free fonts have 18 glyphs; this has 43. Type John, Charlie, Jennifer accurately (not phonetic approximations). Professional tattoo artists, designers, and educators' tool. Commercial license included. Works in all design software. OTF/TTF formats. Not available anywhere else. Instant download.