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Proper spelling?

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Author Photo by: jk123
Jun 01 2019, 12:00am CST ~ 5 years ago. 
Proper spelling?
 
Hi Filipino language speakers.
 
I've noticed a number of Filipino words where the spelling can sometimes change, and I'm wondering if there's a general rule as to what is the best or most proper way to spell these words? This often happens with the vowel "u"...
 
For example:
puwede vs pwede
eskuwela vs eskwela
guwapo vs gwapo
 
Does the spelling matter here? Is one more formal than the other?
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Author Photo Tagamanila Badge: SupporterBadge: Serious SupporterBadge: VIP SupporterBadge: Native Tagalog Speaker
Jun 01 2019, 12:00am CST ~ 5 years ago. 
@jk123
 
The correct spellings are the ones with the "u". However, if we'd base it on actual usage, the ones without the "u" would be a lot more common. As a result, I don't think it really matters which one is used in regular, or even in some formal, communication. In textbooks though, I believe the correct spellings must be observed.
 
The "u" is essential for syllabication purposes, which explains its presence. Yet, within a word, every time it is followed by "w", the sound of "u" naturally blends with the initial sound of "w". Thus, it may be viewed already as redundant, resulting in the tendency of writers to omit it.
 
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