Authors

Winzdee Q. Cabato*
Davao del Sur State College
Digos City, Davao del Sur, Philippines
Email: winzdeecabato402@gmail.com

Roxan Jean B. Gemang
Davao del Sur State College
Magsaysay, Davao del Sur
Email: gemangroxanjean@gmail.com

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate Bagobo pupils’ speaking proficiency in the English language. The objectives were to identify the challenges they encountered, the factors that contributed to their speaking difficulties, and their insights on the influence of their mother tongue on their English speaking proficiency. A qualitative research, phenomenological study, with eight (8) Grade 6 Bagobo pupils in Labidangan Elementary School as participants of this study. Instruments used include in-depth interviews with the participants who were purposively chosen. The data gathered were thematically analyzed. Findings revealed that Bagobo pupils faced various challenges, such as (1) language anxiety, (2) phonological difficulties, and (3) language barriers. These challenges were due to sparse speaking engagement and a phonological gap from their mother tongue. They had struggles in speaking English because of the language interference between their native language and the English language. These findings suggested a language intervention to enhance speaking skills in English. This study could also be used to explore issues in other areas of language literacy.

Keywords: speaking proficiency, Bagobo pupils, English language

*Corresponding author

DOI: http://doi.org/10.69651/PIJHSS0404565

Recommended citation:

Cabato, W. Q., & Gemang, R. J. B. (2025). Speak up! Speaking proficiency of Bagobo pupils. Pantao (The International Journal of the Humanities and Social Sciences) 4 (4), 6135-6144. http://doi.org/10.69651/PIJHSS0404565

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