However, here's a breakdown:
* Major Languages: There are 18 major languages spoken in the Philippines, each with its own distinct features.
* Dialects within Major Languages: Each of these 18 major languages has numerous dialects, making it difficult to pin down a single number. Estimates range from hundreds to over 1000.
* Regional Variation: The level of dialectal variation can be significant, even within a single province. Some dialects are so distinct that they are essentially mutually unintelligible.
It's more accurate to say that there are countless dialects spoken in the Philippines, reflecting the country's diverse cultural and linguistic heritage.
The most widely spoken language in the Philippines is Filipino, a standardized form of Tagalog. While Filipino is the national language and is widely used in media and education, there are still many individuals who primarily speak their regional dialect.