Caren G. Dalago and Denzel Mark A. Ciruela, MAED (Authors)
Abstract
This study aims to document and examine the lexical variety of the Surigaonon-Dinagatnon, Bisaya (Cebuano), Binul-anon, and Waray languages in Dinagat Island. A qualitative-descriptive linguistic method was employed, utilizing purposive sampling to select informants from seven municipalities on the island. Informants were chosen based on their status as native speakers, age, and residency in their respective areas. The primary instrument used for data collection was an eliciting material consisting of 500 words from Morris Swadesh’s Basic Core Vocabulary. The results revealed a very high lexical similarity between the municipalities of Libjo and Dinagat, and Basilisa and Cagdianao, with a cognate percentage of 98%. In contrast, a low similarity was observed between Tubajon and Loreto (40%). Although certain word forms differed from Filipino and other local languages, their meanings remained consistent. Cebuano emerged as the dominant language in areas such as San Jose, Dinagat, Libjo, and Tubajon, while Surigaonon was prevalent in Basilisa and Cagdianao. Loreto stood out as primarily Waray-speaking. The study highlights that geography, history, and social interaction are key factors influencing the dynamism and diversity of language on the island. Patterns of lexical change such as abbreviation, stress-shifting, and phonemic alteration were observed, reflecting the evolving and dynamic nature of the spoken languages. The study recommends further research on local languages to preserve the rich culture and identity of the communities in Dinagat.
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Keywords: Lexical Variation, Surigaonon-Dinagatnon, Dinagat Island, Philippine languages, Linguistic diversity