El Chavacano: The Spanish That Became Filipino Chavacano is a Spanish-based creole language spoken in the Philippines, most associated with Western Mindanao, particularly Zamboanga City. It is also spoken in some towns of Basilan, as well as in Cavite City and Ternate. Born from contact between Spanish and Latin American soldiers, local Philippine communities, and regional trade networks, Chavacano is today recognized as the only Spanish-based creole in Asia and a living reminder of our layered