Tagalog is one of the major languages of the Republic of the Philippines. It functions as its lingua franca and de fcto national working language of the country. It is used as the basis for the development of Filipino, the national language of the Philippines, a country with 181 documented languages.
Is Tagalog a useful language?
Tagalog is not worth learning for just a short visit to Manila. Virtually everyone speaks English, and many speak it fluently. However, it's worth learning Tagalog for a long-term stay around Metro Manila (or for personal enrichment) since it opens up another layer of local experience.
Why Filipino language is important in the Philippines?
As a Filipino, our language is inextricably connected to who we are as a people. A majority of the population know how to speak Filipino, so it's a way for us as a people to be united, especially during these days. The Filipino language is the spirit of the national identity.