Introduction

TThe Ayta Abellen language group of the Philippines has a population of about 5,000 people. The number of speakers of the language is decreasing. They reside in the Central Luzon region: Tarlac province, Capas, Maamot, Mayantoc, San Jose, and Station Juliana.

The language is classified as Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central Luzon, Sambalic. The ISO code is [abp]. Alternate names include: Abenlen, Aburlen Negrito, Aburlin, and Ayta Abellen Sambal.

Adult speakers still use the language in the home, in the community and in religious settings. Some children in remote areas learn Ayta Abellen as their first language, but other children in towns learn Botolan Sambal or Ilocano first.

Writing is done using the Latin script. Language development including this dictionary may enhance the use of this language.