Int. j. adv. multidisc. res. stud.

2024; 4(1):739-752

Received: 10-12-2023
Accepted: 20-01-2024

Descriptive Analysis of Tandaganon Dialect

1 Mylis R Bat-ao, 2 Jerlyn G Balones
1, 2
University of Mindanao-Davao City, Philippines

Corresponding Author: Mylis R Bat-ao

Abstract
Language is the most complex invention of mankind. Moreover, it was found that cluster reduction and alternation
Through it, one can mend or end relationships. This appear in the Tandaganon language. In the morphology
qualitative descriptive paper crafted a descriptive analysis of aspect, inflection, reduplication, and the use of free and
the Tandaganon language utilized by the people of Tandag bound morphemes is also evident. In addition, there are
City and the municipalities of Tago, San Miguel, Bayabas, terms whereby the localities are all similar; these are the
and Cagwait. Each locality has ten participants chosen terms for greetings. However, in the terms for body parts,
randomly using a convenience sampling technique. It was common terms/ physical environment, and activities, there
found that the Tandaganon language has 19 alphabets: three are differences in some of the terms, while there are also
– vowels, 15 – consonants, and three diphthongs: aw [ǝʊ], similarities out of the identified word list. Synchronic
ay [aɪ], uy [ͻɪ]. This language follows the syllable patterns: variation is evident in the Tandaganon-speaking localities of
CVVC, CVCV, VCV, CVV, CVC, VCVC, and CVCVC. Surigao del Sur.

Keywords: Applied Linguistics, Descriptive Analysis, Dialect, Tandaganon, Synchronic Variation, Philippines

Introduction
All over the world, there are more than 6,900 languages (Summer Institute of Linguistics 1). With this significant number, the
necessity to conduct language documentation, revitalization, preservation, and identification of language varieties has been
pushed to linguists. However, these efforts have been a considerable challenge amongst linguists. Though these endeavors
push cultural preservation, linguistic diversity, community cohesion, mental well-being, and traditional knowledge, there are a
few people who strive to implement research that goes along with this vision.
As technology and the world changes, so does language. David Crystal posits that language change is uncertain and man’s
linguistic history can be known, but his linguistic future cannot be foretold (Parab 94) [26]. Based on the claim of Biber,
language change can be learned in language variation. The awareness of the fundamental differences between the variability
within the community makes people appreciate man’s intellectual ability [33]. Founded in this claim, the researcher aims to
inform the readers of the Tandaganon as minority language which contains variations.
However, in present-day linguistics, there are contentions in the problems of variation analysis, representation of a speaker’s
language capabilities, and the function of systemic variability in a grammar of language (Gawne 95) [12]. In addition, research
methods and analysis in language variation and change research pose another problem for contemporary science, urging the
scientific body to utilize other methods of elicitation, analysis, and evaluation of data for the study. Researchers need extensive
natural data to obtain reliable, statistically relevant conclusions. The more factors the linguist must investigate, the more data
they need to undertake the study (Meyerhoff 204) [22]. The necessity to conduct language variation studies has been encouraged
by linguists. However, given the abovementioned problems, careful planning must be considered.
This study, a descriptive analysis of the Tandaganon dialect, is deemed necessary to society and the body of knowledge. The
understanding of language variation has been the focus of some sociolinguists. Additionally, the need to have a more precise
grasp of the different language varieties in the world is relevant to humanity. The comprehension of language varieties and
their importance to an individual makes one more knowledgeable and tolerant of individuality. Penny stated that it is a
universal characteristic of man’s language; the same language in different parts of a specific geographical area does not speak
in the same manner. Thus, a meticulous examination unveils that variations occur gradually, making the speech of each locality
different in some of its features from its neighboring localities. However, continuous differences collected as one crosses an
area and in a sizeable territory this collection of differences can result in mutual incomprehensibility (1 par. 2). Inn contrary,
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Tandaganon speakers understand each other well. language. For instance, in various languages, unstressed
Furthermore, there are many languages of the world that vowels are considerably centralized to schwa, in
show the same sentence pattern; on the other hand, a variety coordination with the influence of syllable structure, the
of languages come out from a single language (Anderson 1). nature of the following segment, or lack thereof, these
For this reason, William Labov focuses on pronunciation determine phonological variation (530). Lastly, the deeply
and not on the grammatical features, for according to him, rooted finding in contemporary linguistics is that language
out of the pronunciation of the speaker you can clearly variation is typical. Distinctness occurs in every human
dissect the distinctness of one language to another. Hence, language, making it unique and different from others.
the necessity to conduct language variation studies and other Guided upon the different pieces of literature, the researcher
related endeavors has been encouraged to linguists. wanted to answer the following research questions: 1. What
Additionally, language change has been the focus of are the features of the Tandaganon dialect as to phonology
countless studies which is often applied to the study of and morphology? 2. What are the similarities and
systematic variability. Variation paves the way for differences of Tandaganon dialect, as to municipality? And
differentiations amongst individuals, social or regional 3. What insights can be drawn from the data gathered?
groups, and nations. Variability is noticeable everywhere in This study focuses on William Labov’s theory of variation
language, in different registers, and different dialects (Parab (1996) which he posits that the speaker's pronunciation is a
92) [26]. Languages that were spread over a period depict a clear indication of the distinctness of one language from
less rapid change. In its traditional perspective of linguistic another. This further demonstrates the philosophy utilized in
change, variations flourished in other communities to the unveiling of Tandaganon linguistic features such as
exhibit a chain of events where it can replace its successor, phonology and morphology and the identification of the
for example, Latin >Hispano – Romance> medieval similarities and differences as to municipality.
Spanish> modern Spanish. In conclusion to this event, this Language is constantly evolving to meet the needs of its
feature that is ongoing change constitutes two or more users (Rosa 36) [31]. As the speakers change, so do the style
competing variants (Penny 3) [28]. of communication and language change. The understanding
In Hazen’s compilation of language variation, he postulated of linguistic varieties and language change should be clearly
that morphology has had an important function in language understood, for out of a better grasp comes a deeper
variation research since the foundation of contemporary appreciation of one’s culture and individual differences. On
variation studies. However, its function is seldom top of that, the documentation, preservation, and
represented as a unified system analyzed. For some fields of identification of language varieties have been strongly
language variation, morphology functions as a secondary yet encouraged by linguists. Thus, continuous work in this field
equally important function in shaping the recurrence and needs more hands to achieve the greater purpose of
quality of language variation. Most scholars revealed that preserving culture through language preservation and
whether a consonant or a vowel follows the stop stringently documentation.
restricts the deletion range so that the /t/ of the last field will Subsequently, this academic endeavor will significantly
be deleted more than the /t/ of the last owner. The study of contribute to the body of knowledge as it has been a
Tagliamonte and Temple exposed that morphology affects challenge to linguists and other enthusiasts to participate in
the rate of variation. For instance, the forms past and passed the documentation, preservation, and identification of
can be pronounced as [pæst] for the majority. Moreover, the threatened languages. The findings of this study can help
/t/ of the past will be deleted more often than the /t/ of future researchers conduct studies related to this project.
passed. Such divergences concerning morphophonemic Tandaganon, a language spoken only by five municipalities
forms and bimorphemic forms are established in English- of Surigao del Sur in the Caraga region, can be considered a
speaking communities. Additionally, few variationist studies minority language. Understanding the reasons for the
as well focus singularly on the morphological system, such synchronic variation of this language is of dire need.
as the study of Sanchez (43) which examined the verbal Additionally, this can advance the knowledge of the
morphology in the context of borrowing. He revealed that research enthusiasts by addressing the unanswered
structural linguistic factors govern how borrowing functions questions.
in a quantitative valuation of a creole variety, in the case of In addition, the Provincial Government of Surigao del Sur
Papiamentu, which is in contact with Spanish, English, and can make this study a reference for language revitalization
Dutch. endeavors. The provincial government of Surigao del Sur,
In addition to morphology, many studies have been along with the Department of Education, can significantly
conducted on phonological variation. Wolfram's study benefit from this study since this can be evidence for a
utilized phonological linguistic variables to measure social language preservation effort. Further, this can also be used
relations over forty years; most of his work demonstrates the to craft instructional materials under the MTB-MLE
categories of phonological variables conventionally studied. curriculum.
In 1969, he posits that phonological variables were utilized The speakers of Tandaganon can also directly benefit from
to display social classifications by race and gender, which this research. Since language is intertwined with culture,
includes the final-stop deletion, /θ/→/f/, devoicing of Tandaganon speakers can take pride in themselves as an
syllable-final voiced stops, and r-lessness. The phonological individual. Hence, this also ensures that younger generations
process /θ/→/f/ is found in varieties of English worldwide, continue to speak the Tandaganon language for its long-term
claims Schneider (1123). Into the bargain, Guy evaluates survival.
typical phonological limitations on variation, including This study was conducted during the academic year 2022-
stress and the characteristics of the following segments. 2023. The targeted participants were the native speakers of
Word stress and varying degrees of phrasal stress were the Tandaganon dialect located in the municipalities of
found to be influential in the phonological variation of each Tago, Bayabas, San Miguel, Cagwait, and Tandag. In each
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municipality, ten participants were chosen randomly to further recommendations to polish the instrument were
participate in the study. However, there was one perceived incorporated by the researcher.
weakness of the study, in the city of Tandag most of the In addition, the researcher used a T60 Recording Digital
people living in the población use code-mixing and code- 8GB Voice Audio Recorder Dictaphone, which she bought
switching. The use of code-mixing and code-switching in online through Shoppee Fengru Audio Store. The purpose of
the city is due to the linguistic migrants since Tandag City is this device is to gather accurate record of the answers given
the provincial capital of Surigao del Sur, and economic by the participants. She also took a photo during the
migration is due to fewer job opportunities for job seekers. interview through her Samsung A52s cellular phone for
Suppose the researcher cannot find participants that fit the further documentation. All the data that were gathered
inclusion criteria of the study, she will travel to the far-flung during the interview were extracted from the memory into
barangays of the city such as Maticdum, Maitom, Mabuhay, the HP laptop using Windows 11 x64bit-based Systems and
Pandanon, Pangi, Quezon, San Antonio, San Isidro, and San to assure that all the data gathered was safely kept a
Jose. Samsonite 1tb external drive was used to save a back-up
copy of all the data.
Method
Study Participants Design and Procedure
Surigao del Sur, Philippines is a linguistically diverse This study employed a qualitative-descriptive methodology.
province. With 19 municipalities, it has four dialects. It is in Qualitative research directs to answer queries concerning the
this idea that the researcher was able to come up with the development and discernment of the definition and real-life
foregoing study. The participants came from the localities of experience of mankind and its relationship to the social
Tandag, Tago, Bayabas, Cagwait, and San Miguel. In each world; it intends to obtain a systematic description and
municipality, there were ten participants. However, to accurate data for a very deep understanding of a social
achieve factual data, the researcher established an inclusion phenomenon (Fossey et al. 717). Moreover, Kumar posits
and exclusion criteria, to wit: the participant must be 50-70 that descriptive research is an investigation that solely
years old, he/she must be a resident of the locality under focuses on examining relationships or associations. It further
study for more than 20 years, he/she must have no travel describes a situation, problem, phenomenon, etc. (334, par
history outside the municipality he/she resides, and lastly 1). In addition, descriptive analysis is a research product
he/she must be a native speaker of Tandaganon dialect for when it has identified a socially important phenomenon
him/her to be considered as participant of the study. On the (McFarland et al., par 1). It is in this note, that the
contrary, if one has lived in the municipality under study but researcher unraveled the linguistic features of the
is not a native speaker, if he/she is multilingual, and if Tandaganon dialect and delved into its similarities and
he/she has a travel history outside the municipality he/she differences among the localities mentioned in this study
resides, then he/she is excluded from the study. through the conduct of an interview.
Additionally, the participation of every participant in this After the instrument validation and the approval of the Dean
study is entirely voluntary. The participant’s refusal did not of the Professional Schools, the researcher submitted her
involve any damage or loss of benefits. He/she may ask the documents to the University of Mindanao Ethics and
researcher on the possible outcomes of the study and other Review Committee. Later, the certificate of approval from
questions about this academic endeavor. Furthermore, the said office was issued with a protocol number UMERC-
whenever the participant feels discomfort during the 2023-150. Then, the researcher contacted her middleman
interview because of the nature of the topic being studied, from the five Tandaganon-speaking localities to identify the
the participant may opt not to answer questions that make study participants following the inclusion criteria set for this
him/her feel any psychological or emotional distress, or scientific investigation.
he/she can withdraw as a participant of the study if he/she Moreover, prior to the conduct of the interview, the
feels that he/she cannot discuss the information that is asked researcher oriented and discussed with the participants the
of him/her. The researcher valued the participation and contents of the informed consent, which they signed when
placed the welfare of the participants as the highest priority they agreed on the terms and conditions of the study.
during the study. As a further matter, the participants in the Furthermore, the researcher was very happy that all of her
study were selected through a convenience sampling participants willfully supported this endeavor by answering
technique. She purposely used this sampling technique to all the questions that were asked by the researcher herself.
ensure that all the participants fit the inclusion criteria set in None of her participants withdrew during the duration of the
the study. research, so the use of a withdrawal form was not necessary.
All of them happily participated in this undertaking; they
Materials and Instrument even told the researcher that they were glad that somebody
The researcher crafted a word list based on the Jadavpur took the initiative to take a closer look at the dialect under
Journal of Linguistics 2018 Supplementary Issue. This issue scrutiny.
was used in Conducting Fieldwork on Endangered and After the interview, the researcher transferred all the data
Indigenous Languages in India. The word list was divided from the memory of the audio recorder to her laptop and
into four domains; specifically, these were the following: external drive for backup purposes. She then transcribed the
domain 1 – greetings, domain 2 – body parts, domain 3 – recorded material, after which a thorough analysis was
common term/ physical environment, and domain 4 – made. Transcriptions were saved to the computer, and each
activities. The word list and questions underwent rigorous saved file was based upon the municipality such as: Folder
validation from the four experts of the University of A-Tandag, Folder B- Tago, Folder C-San Miguel, Folder D-
Mindanao and one external validator from the North Eastern Bayabas, folder E- Cagwait.
Mindanao State University–Main Campus. Suggestions and
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For the data analysis of this study, the researcher followed collectively define the language and differentiate it from
the pattern of Creswell (2013), where he identified six steps other languages. Like any other language, the Tandaganon
in data analysis; these were the following: first is the language contains features of the language that are unique
collection of data – this referred to the process of collecting from other languages. In this study, the researcher focuses
data from the source. The researcher interviewed the only on the phonological and morphological characteristics
participants of this study in the five Tandaganon-speaking of the identified language.
localities. Each of them answered all the questions asked by The phonological features of the Tandaganon language
the researcher; second is the engagement with the data – in include three vowels, 15 consonants, and phonemic stress.
this study, the researcher managed the data through a Under phonotactic constraints, there are five common
thorough transcription and organization, so problem syllable patterns, consonant clusters, and diphthongs. In
statements one and two were answered; third is code the addition, for the phonological processes, there are cluster
extracts from the data; fourth is the generation of code reduction and alternation. Moreover, in the morphological
categories from the code itself; fifth is the conceptualization features, morphemes, inflection, and reduplication are
of themes from the categorized, coded extracts; and sixth is inherent in the Tandaganon language.
contextualization and representation of the findings.
During this academic endeavor, the researcher made sure The Tandaganon Phonological Features
that the participants were aware that their participation was A phonological feature is a distinct feature of the sound of a
completely voluntary and that if they felt discomfort during particular language. The data reveals that the phonological
the interview, they could withdraw their participation. features of the Tandaganon language include three vowels;
However, the researcher was so lucky to have gathered [a], [i], [u]; 15 consonants; [b], [d], [g] [h], [k], [l], [m],
participants who actively answered all the queries thrown at [n],[ŋ], [p], [r], [s], [t], [w], and [y]; phonemic stress –
them. Additionally, all the data gathered were safely kept in changes in the placement of stress produce another meaning
her HP laptop using Windows 11 x64 bit-based systems, and to particular words. Under phonotactics, there are five
a backup copy of all the data was saved in her Samsonite 1 common syllable patterns – VCVC, CVCVC, VCV, CVV,
TB external drive. Moreover, R.A. no. 10173 was carefully CVC; consonant clusters – in the Tandaganon language, the
adhered to in this study. The participants also filled in words that contain consonant clusters are borrowed words in
informed consent, and they were informed of their rights as the Spanish lexicon and in some cases in English and
participants of this research. diphthongs. For the phonological processes, there are cluster
Moreover, the researcher assured the prospective reduction and alternation.
participants of this study that they would not be involved in Tandaganon is a unique language with a phonemic
any dangerous situation, especially, in their physical, inventory consisting of fifteen consonants and three vowels.
psychological, or socio-economic welfare. Further, the Further, it has one suprasegmental phoneme: the stress /’/.
questions raised focused on the four domains: domain one – The vowels are speech sounds formed by human beings,
greetings, domain two – body parts, domain three – common specifically when the breath gushes through the mouth
terms/ physical environment, and domain four – activities. without obstruction from the teeth, tongue, or lips
Most importantly, the participant’s name was labeled P1, (Cambridge Dictionary). The Tandaganon language has only
P2, and so on for privacy and confidentiality. three vowels, namely; [a], [i], and [u].
In addition, the participants did not directly benefit from this The articulation of the vowel sounds is of descriptive
study. However, the researcher gave two hundred pesos as a categories, identified by the position of the tongue and the
gesture of gratitude for extending their help and time spent lips. The [a] sound in Tandaganon is characterized as low,
on this project. The researcher valued the integrity of this center unrounded with variations such as: [ā], and [â]; [i]
research; thus, constant checking in Turnitin software and sound is high, front unrounded with lowering of the jaw and
Grammarly was done to avoid plagiarism. Also, she ensured slight opening of the lips. The [u] sound is voiced, high
that all the authors mentioned in this paper were rightfully back, rounded, moderately depressing the jaw with bit
given due recognition. Furthermore, she adhered to the rules rounded lips and has one variation, [ū]. Moreover, as
of the University of Mindanao Ethics Committee by postulated by Urdas et al., Ilokano, Tagalog, and Cebuano
submitting all the necessary documents to gain the language groups have no significant difference between the
Certificate of Approval. Eventually, she was given the said vowel [u] and [o] [37].
certificate. Likewise, approval from the Local Government Furthermore, the study of Dumanig reveals that the
Unit through the municipal mayor of each locality under Surigaonon language in Surigao del Norte, which is a
study was carefully observed, and a copy of the letter was neighboring province of Surigao del Sur, consists of
given to each of the barangay captains where the target seventeen consonants, namely: [b, d, g, h, j, k, l, m, n, ŋ, p, r,
participants of this study were located. In this note, the s, t, w, y, ?] and three vowels: [a, i, u] [4]. Unlike the
researcher carried the responsibility and decision in relation Tandaganon, the data shows that this language has no
to the publication, presentation, and reproduction of this consonant [j], which makes it different from Surigaonon
humble research to the body of knowledge. language, where a common notion of Filipinos says that if
somebody is coming from Surigao whether it is from
Results and Discussion Surigao del Norte or Surigao del Sur, they tend to say that
The Linguistic Features of the Tandaganon Language they all speak jaon-jaon.
A linguistic feature is the grammatical or phonological Conversely, consonants are speech sounds created by
distinctness of a language (Cambridge Dictionary). Different initially or fully blocking the airway to the vocal tract
languages exhibit unique linguistic features, and studying (Proctor 3). The Tandaganon language consists of 15
these features is essential for understanding and analyzing consonants, which are the following: [b], [d], [g]. [h], [k],
complex system of communication. These features [l], [m], [n], [p], [r], [s], [t], [w], [y], and [ŋ]. Tandaganon
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consonants are classified based on the manner and place of particular language and where it is being used (Oxford
articulation. The manner of articulation demonstrates how Dictionary).
the different speech organs play significant roles in creating Also, Anderson asserts that these phonotactic constraints
a consonant sound; primarily, it is how the airflow is vary from one language to another and are essential in the
obstructed (Ello.uos). understanding of the phonological structure of a language
Additionally, Tandaganon consonants’ manner of (1). For example, English contains phonotactic restrictions
articulation is grouped into subcategories: plosives/stops – that prohibit [tl] and [dl] in onsets. However, this is not a
in this manner, the speech organs are shut and the nasal universal restriction. Moreover, some languages allow
cavity is completely shut and obstructing the airstream; onsets of [tl] and [dl] like Ngizim, which has words like [tlà]
nasals – in this manner, the soft palate is lowered, blocking ‘cow’ (Schuh par 3), and in Hebrew which has words like
the oral cavity. Air can only pass through the nose; fricatives [dli] ‘bucket’ (Klein 4).
– in this manner, fricatives are produced when the air The critical aspects of phonotactics in the Tandaganon
propels its way through a narrow gap between two language are the following: syllable pattern or syllable
articulators at a balanced pace; laterals – in this manner, the structure – these are phonotactic rules that determine the
tip of the tongue is pushed down onto the alveolar ridge. structure of syllables in a language. It specifies which
The rims of the tongue are lowered so that the air passes combinations of consonants and vowels are allowed in the
through the lowered tongue rims; flaps – in this manner, it is beginning, middle, and end of a syllable; consonant clusters
voiced the flaps involved approach each other without – these are phonotactic rules that address the permissible
touching one another; and glides – or the so-called semi- combinations of consonants within syllables. Thus,
vowel. It is the twilight zone between the consonants and the phonotactics define which consonants can appear in these
vowels. positions and in what combination; diphthongs –
Likewise, the place of articulation is the location where the phonotactic rules may specify whether certain combinations
sounds come from: it also has subcategories: bilabial which of vowels are allowed within a word or a syllable.
include the letters [p, b], alveolar (lingua-alveolar) [t, d, r], These phonotactic constraints characterize possible
velar (lingua-velar) [k, g], labio-velar [w], labio-velar w, phoneme sequences in a language. For example, in the
and glottal [h]. Yet, the manner of articulation of the English language, /ŋ/ may occur in a syllable, which is in the
Tandaganon are stops which include [p, b, t, d, k, g]; nasal location of the coda, but such is not a prevocalic or in the
[m, n, ŋ], fricatives [s, h]; lateral [l]; flap [r]; glide [w] onset. However, this is not true for the Tandaganon
(University of Manitoba). language since it could be placed in a prevocalic or onset
Furthermore, the syllable stress in Tandaganon is phonemic, location. Below is the syllabic structure of ngay-an meaning
marked with a /’/. Stress is the emphasis on a syllable of a later and ngasa meaning why.
word or words in a phrase or a sentence (Dash 121). Thus,
stress is an inherent part of the phonological representation
of words in the mental lexicon; this is not governed by rule.
Though it can be displayed that speakers have their own
knowledge of the stress patterns of their own language
(Culter 78). To boot, some examples stipulate that the
placement of stress in the Tandaganon language in other
locations will produce a different meaning to particular
words. Some changes include from adjective to verb, like
the word pu.’yo (stay) is an adjective, and the other one
‘puyo (silent) is a verb.
Another phonological feature of the Tandaganon language is Fig 1: Syllable Structure
the phonotactics, this pertains to the portion of phonology
that discusses restrictions on sound orders and syllable The word ngay-an meaning later has a nucleus vowel which
patterns of a language. Furthermore, phonotactic constraints is a diphthong /ay/. It could be deduced that in this word, the
are the system whereby syllables must be created in a syllabic pattern is CVVC. Concerning the sonority
language. Famous linguist Elizabeth Zsiga posits that sequencing principle, the word ŋay-an follows this principle.
languages do not allow random sequences of sounds; As observed, it is characterized by the following order: the
instead, the sound sequences that are allowed are systematic onset is a stop, the nucleus is a vowel, and the coda is an
and predictable parts of their structure. Thus, phonotactics is approximant. Additionally, some syllables adhere to the
how every sequence of sounds is made by the parts of a sonority sequencing principle, and many languages adhere
syllable, influenced by many factors surrounding a to it (Carlisle 3 par 2) [4].

Table 1: The Tandaganon Syllable Pattern

Syllable Pattern Tandaganon Word Sample Statement
unu
unu dayun?
VCV /u/ + /n/ + /u/
What then?
V C V
lau May lau ngadto sa unahan.
/l/ + /a/ + /u/ There is a pond over there.
CVV C V V
hai Haí mo pagabutang an yabi?
/h/ + /a/ + /i/ Where did you put the key?

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C V V
dūm
Dūm na kay.
CVC /d/ + /ū/ + /m/
It's already nighttime.
C V C
abay
/a/ + /b/ + /ay/ Abay pagkadto ngadto sa bāy nan imo amigo.
VCVC
V C VC Don’t go into your friend’s house.

dabas
/d/ + /a/ + /b/ + /a/ + /s/
Paghinay pagkaat kay basin kaw madabas.
C V C V C
Be careful in climbing you might fall.
CVCVC
Abay na pagpanaw kay dūm na.
panaw
Don’t go out anymore because its already nighttime.
/p/ + /a/ + /n/ + /aw/
C V C VC

It can be noticed in Table 1 that the Tandaganon syllable consonant of a cluster is deleted. Table 4 displays the cluster
patterns are the following: VCV, CVV, CVC, VCVC, and reduction in the identified language under study.
CVCVC. These syllable patterns are the most common in
the Tandaganon language. Table 4: The Tandaganon Cluster Reduction
Cebuano Tandaganon English Gloss
Table 2: The Tandaganon Consonant Clusters dalan dān Way
Clusters Sample Words English Gloss palad pād Palm
B r brawn Brown sulod sūd Enter
D r drowing, druga drawing, drug Dala dā Bring
G r, w gripo, gwantis faucet, gloves halang hāŋ Spicy
K r, w kwenta, kwatro count, four Tuló tū Drip
M y myerkules Wednesday balay bāy House
P l, r plato, planggana, prito plate, basin, fry tuklod tūd push
T r trese, trangka, trapo, traydorthirteen, lock, rug, traitor
Table 4 shows the cluster reduction in the Tandaganon
Table 2 unveils that the flap [r] frequently appears in the language. Cluster reduction occurs when one or more
majority of clusters, namely: [br], [dr], [gr], [kr], [pr], and consonant cluster is omitted. The basis for claiming a cluster
[tr]. Aside from the consonant clusters, diphthongs also reduction is the Cebuano language since it is considered one
appear in this language under study. Diphthongs refer to the of the major languages in the Philippines and it is also
gliding vowel in the articulation where there is a continual widely used in Southern Mindanao (Demeterio 322) [7]. It
shift from one location to another. This is usually signified can be remarked in Table 4 that the following Cebuano
in the phonetic transcription of speech by means of a pair of terms accompany a CVCV or CVCVC syllable structure.
characters signifying the initial and final arrangement of the Whereas, in the Tandaganon language, it can be perceived
vocal tract (Britannica.com). that the examples cited follow a CVC syllable structure.
Moreover, it could also be deduced that one syllable is
Table 3: The Tandaganon Diphthongs omitted or a CV cluster, but a long vowel is used in its stead.
For example, the word “dalan” syllable structure is CVCVC;
Diphthongs Sample Words English Gloss
in the Tandaganon language, it is dān, which follows the
aw [əʊ] dayaw, sayaw, panaw good, dance, walk
abay, hinay, humay, don’t, water slow, rice husk, CVC syllable structure. Another example is the word
ay [aɪ]
ngay-an, later, “tuklod” in Cebuano, which follows a CVCCVC syllable
uy [ᴐɪ] kamoy, toes structure, but in Tandaganon, it is tūd, which follows a CVC
syllable structure. It could be understood that cluster
Researcher Roach, as cited by Dosia and Rido, states that reduction is occurring in the Tandaganon language since, in
diphthongs are sounds that consist of movement or glide the following example, only a cluster is reduced. These
from one vowel to another since diphthongs are a blending findings agree with the claim of Williamson, which
of two vowels [21]. It can be noted that in the Tandaganon postulates that cluster reduction could be incomplete or with
language, there are only three diphthongs: [aw], [ay], and at least one member of the cluster is still produced, or it
[uy]. could be total [2]. Besides cluster reduction, alternation is
In like manner, the Tandaganon language contains also evident in the Tandaganon language. It is the difference
phonological processes. These phonological processes are in the form and/ or sound of a word or word part (Nordquist
patterns of sound mistakes usually developed in children’s 1) [23]. Tandaganon language undergoes the process of
usage to cut down speech as they learn to communicate. alternation, where a certain consonant is changed when
Among these processes are cluster reduction and alternation. placed between vowels and the beginning of the word. The
Cluster reduction is the omission of one or more consonants alternations are based on Cebuano, one of the major
in the consonant cluster. It can occur in a syllable-initial or languages of the Philippines. Table 5 shows the alternation
syllable-final position. Furthermore, it also happens when a process of [l-r], [l-w], [l-t], [l-p], and [m-r].

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Table 5: The Tandaganon Alternations Table 6: Tandaganon Morphemes

[l-r] Prefix Infix Suffix
Cebuano Tandaganon English Gloss ga, gi, in, min, mi, pag, paga, tin, ting, yaka, an, ay, han, hay,
ni, si
wala wara none ya, yag, yanga hi, ir,
bula bura bubble
tulog turog sleep As shown in Table 6, the following are the prefixes, infixes,
[l-w] and suffixes in the Tandaganon language
Cebuano Tandaganon English Gloss
sulat suwat write Examples
ulan uwan rain Prefix
balud bawud wave Root Morpheme Sample Statement
bulak buwak flower uwan mi Miuwan na. (It rained.)
bulag buwag separate (rain) ga Gauwan na. (It’s raining.)
Infix
[m-r] Root Morpheme Sample Statement
Cebuano Tandaganon English Gloss Unuy abay mo tiniil? (Why do you keep on
maot raut Ugly tiil (foot)
walking barefoot?)
[l-p] ni
tiyab Pirmi ko sa ini sila tiniyab nan ila mga sayup.
Cebuano Tandaganon English Gloss (scold) (I always scold them of their wrongdoings.)
lakaw panaw Walk Suffix
[l-t] Root Morpheme Sample Statement
Cebuano Tandaganon English Gloss Gwapahi an imo badu. (Your dress is very
lantaw tan-aw Watch hi
beautiful.)
gwapa
Mas gwapahay da yaun kaysa nan ini. (That
hay
In this alternation process of [l-p] and [l-t], it could be is more beautiful than this.)
observed that the alternation occurred at the beginning of the
word starts with a consonant letter. The alternation of [l-r] It could be perceived that the changes made by the bound
and [l-w] occurred between vowels. Based on Cebuano, it morphemes change the tense of the word and word class.
could be deduced that Tandaganon has a unique way of Moreover, the suffixes hi and i signify the superlative
expressing ideas. In the study of Parrucho and Tarusan, it degree of an adjective in the Tandaganon language. For
was affirmed that alternation is a phonological process example, the word gwapa in the illustration above gwapahi
whereby a particular letter is replaced by another (189). means very beautiful. Whereas, if the suffix ay is used in the
word gwapa it becomes a comparative degree. In addition,
The Tandaganon Morphological Features in the municipality of Tago as what Table 6 displays, Tago
Morphology in linguistics is the study and description of the makes use of the suffix ir to signify superlative degree of an
formation of words such as their inflection, derivation, and adjective thus, for the example gwapa, its superlative degree
compounding of a language (Merriam-Webster Dictionary). in other localities is gwapahi in Tago it is gwapahir.
The Tandaganon language contains morphemes and is the Another morphological feature of the Tandaganon language
smallest unit of language that carries meaning. It can be is inflection. Inflection is defined as a change that marks the
individual words or parts of words. It is classified into two grammatical role of the parts of speech, such as nouns,
main categories: the free and bound morpheme. Inflection is pronouns, verbs, adverbs, etc. Inflectional morphemes are
modifying a word to indicate various grammatical features utilized to create another variant form of a word. Inflection
such as tense, case, number, mood, gender, and person. In in a language is important because it sends information
the case of the Tandaganon language, inflection changes the regarding its tense, agreement, person, and number (Ismai
tense and number of the word. Reduplication is a linguistic 142).
phenomenon where a portion of a word, usually a
morpheme is repeated to convey a specific meaning. It is a Table 7: Tandaganon Inflection
common feature in many languages, and it serves various Root Morpheme Tense Number
purposes. In the Tandaganon language, one purpose of kanta yang (yanganta) past plural
reduplication is plurality and the creation of related words to kaon ga (gakaon) present singular
indicate tense, aspect, or mood.
Morphemes as the smallest unit of meaning in a language is It is found that many of the morphemes of the Tandaganon
categorized into two: free and bound morphemes. Free language are inflectional morphemes. Moreover, using
morphemes - refer to a morpheme that can stand alone. Free inflection in the Tandaganon language changes the tense and
morphemes do not need bound morphemes to form another number of the word. For example, in Tandaganon, the word
word since it has a meaning of its own (Marfa 32). On the dabas (fall), when added by a prefix ya it becomes yadabas
contrary, the bound morphemes cannot stand alone. These which is singular in number. However, when the prefix
morphemes need free morphemes to create another word. yanga is added it becomes yangadabas where it also
Morphemes are classified as prefixes, ininfixes, and becomes plural in number. As observed in the Tandaganon
suffixes. The prefix is a bound morpheme attached before language, inflectional morpheme is prevalent. Based on the
the root, while the infix is attached in between the root study of Öz, inflectional morphemes do not change the
word, and the suffix is attached after the root word. Table 6 grammatical category of a term (93). Moreover, it only
shows the morphemes of the Tandaganon language. brings out another version of an adjective as can be seen in

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the examples cited. rhymes, ablauts, and echoes, but in Chinese, it is subdivided
Another morphological feature of the Tandaganon language based on its syllables (423).
is reduplication. In a language, it is a morphological
occurrence where duplication of a word, element, root, or its Similarities and Differences of Tandaganon Terms
stem gives emphasis, amplifies, enlarges, and changes the Language is a complex product ever invented by mankind.
verb tense to give significant changes or another meaning In English-speaking countries variation exists, which is why
(Kauffman par 3; Jin and Fang par 2) [18, 17]. In the the job of linguists is challenged in identifying variation.
Tandaganon language, reduplication is evident. Its use is to The researcher identified four domains in this study to
signal the number of persons involved in a sentence and identify the similarities and differences in the Tandaganon-
emphasize an action being done. However, when a bound speaking localities of the province of Surigao del Sur in the
morpheme is added, it is also used to signal the verb tense. Caraga region namely: Tandag, Tago, San Miguel, Bayabas,
and Cagwait. In the domain 1 - greetings, domain 2 – body
Table 8: Tandaganon Reduplication parts, domain 3 – common terms/ physical environment, and
Example Domain 4 – activities respectively.
Root sayaw (dance) It could be noted Table 9 that in the first domain – greetings,
Gasayaw-sayaw (dancing, present tense) there are 12 identified terms. As reflected, it could be
Affix noticed that there are five different terms in this particular
Si Maria kay gasayaw-sayaw. (Maria is dancing.)
Yagsayaw-sayaw (were dancing, past progressive tense). domain. For the greeting, how are you? In Tandag, San
Yagsayaw-sayaw sa yadto sila ni Maria iban an iya mga Miguel, and Bayabas it is kumusta na kaw but for Tago and
Affix
barkada kahapon ngadi sa gym. (Maria and her friends were Cagwait it is kumusta. Also, in the greeting good morning
dancing yesterday here in the gym.) for Tandag, Tago, San Miguel, and Bayabas it is madayaw
na hapon but in Cagwait it is maayong buntag. For the
Based on the Comparative Study on Reduplication in greeting long time no see, in Tandag, San Miguel, and
English and Chinese by Junshu Jin and Zhiyi Fang, they Cagwait it is dugayi na kita wa magkita but for the speakers
posit that reduplication is a prevalent occurrence across the in Tago they will say kadugay na nato wa magkita but in
different languages of mankind. In the morphological area Bayabas it is dugayi na kita wa yagkita. Further, for the
of English and Chinese, both languages observe full and greeting what’s up? Speaker of Tandag, San Miguel, and
partial reduplication, but for their subcategories, English and Bayabas will say unu na kaw anhi? While speakers in Tago
Chinese differ. Whereas, in English, reduplicates can be and San Miguel will utter unu na sa kaw anhi?
categorized into three common categories, which include

Table 9: Similarities and Differences of Tandaganon Terms in Domain 1

Greetings Tandag Tago San Miguel Bayabas Cagwait
Hi hanu? hanú? hanu? hanu? hanu?
Hello hanu? hanu? hanu? hanu? hanu?
How are you? kumusta na kaw? kumusta? kumusta na kaw? kumusta na kaw? kumusta?
Goodbye adi naay ako ngadi na ako ngadi na ako ngadi na ako ngadi na ako
Good afternoon madayaw na hapon
madayaw na hapon madayaw na hapon madayaw na hapon madayaw na hapon
Good morning madayaw na buntag
madayaw na buntag madayaw na buntag madayaw na buntag maayong buntag
It’s a pleasure meeting dayaw kay gakita pa
madayaw kay yagkita madayaw kay gakita madayaw kay gakita pa madayaw kay gakita
you kita kita pa kita kita pa kita
dugayi na kita wa
kadugay na nato wa dugay na kita wa dugayi na kay kita wa dugay na kita wa
Long-time no see
gakita magkita magkita yagkita magkita
What’s up? unu na kaw anhi?
unu na sa kaw anhi? na unu na sa kaw anhi? unu na kaw anhi? unu na kaw anhi?
unu sa anhin pamarahi unuy baya pagabati unuy baya pagabati
How are you feeling? unuy pagabati mo unuy baya pagabati mo?
mo? mo? mo?
Take care ayu ayu kaw pag-amping amping pagbantay amping
Good evening madayaw na gabie madayaw na gabie madayaw na gabie maayong gabie maayong gabie

Concerning this, Barzan and Heydari claim that a dialect is a a collection of features that forge one group of speakers as
variation in grammar and vocabulary, including sound different. However, they are speakers of the same language
variation. Though identifying the precise boundaries of (par 3, 4).
dialect is a complex concept, linguists argue that a dialect is

Table 10: Similarities and Differences of Tandaganon Terms in Domain 2

Body Parts Tandag Tago San Miguel Bayabas Cagwait
arm bokton alima alima bokton alima
face bayhu bayhu ginawungan bayhu ginawungan
beard balbas/bungot bangas/ bangason bungot bungot bangas
hip pigi pigi bat-ang bat-ang bakagwang
forearm bokton bokton bokton alima kamot
ankle kiting buku-buku luatan kiting-kiting kiting-kiting
wrist pulso pulso pulso pulso pulso
hands pād alima alima kamot alima
chin kuku kuku suwang kuku kuku

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hair buhok buhok buhok buhok buhok

eye mata mata mata mata mata
neck liog liog liog liog liog
mouth baba baba baba baba baba
forehead tuktuk tuktuk tuktuk buna tuktuk
toes kuyamoy sa siki kuyamoy sa siki kuyamoy kamoy kuyamoy
toenail kuku sa siki kukuhon kuku kuku kukuhon
feet lapa-lapa lapa-lapa yapating siki lapa-lapa
knee tuhod tuhod tuhod tuhod tuhod
thigh paa paa paa paa hita
buttocks bat-ang bakagwang bakagwang bat-ang labut
legs siki bitiis siki bitiis siki
navel/ belly button pusod pusod pusod pusod pusod

As displayed in the table above, it could be observed that 13 and Cagwait but in Tandag it is kiting, and in Tago it is
terms are different in this domain out of the 22 identified buku-buku while it is called luatan in San Miguel. It could
terms for the body parts. These are the examples of the be also be noted that there are terms where all the
different terms: arm – in Tandag and Bayabas it is called municipalities are the same while there are also words that
bokton while in Tago, San Miguel, and Cagwait it is called are different per municipality. This event shows that
alima. Another is the word chin, it is called kuku in Tandag, variability is noticeable everywhere in language, in different
Tago, Bayabas, and Cagwait but in San Miguel it is suwang. registers, and in different dialects (Parab 92) [26].
Further, the word ankle is called kiting-kiting in Bayabas

Table 11: Similarities and Differences of Tandaganon Terms in Domain 3

Common Terms Tandag Tago San Miguel Bayabas Cagwait
Back likod likod likod likod likod
Tall taas taas taas taas taas
Handsome gwapo gwapo gwapo gwapo gwapo
Poor pobre pobre timawa pobre pobre
Love gugma gugma gugma gugma gugma
Nail lansang lansang lansang lansang lansang
Work trabaho trabaho trabaho trabaho trabaho
what? unu? unu sa? unu? unu? unu?
how? unhun/giunu/pagaunu? unhun/giunu/pagaunu? unhun/giunu/pagaunu? unhun/giunu/pagaunu?unhun/giunu/pagaunu?
When kagan-o kinun-o kinun-o kinun-o? kinon-o?
Believe mitoo mitoo too sumitido motoo
Charcoal uling uling uling uling uling
Intelligent mahibawo mautok malantip brayt brayt
Waterfall togonan dapanas busay tugonan busay
Moon buwan buwan buwan buwan buwan
Rain uwan uwan uwan uwan uwan
Wave bawud bawud bawud bawud bawud
Lightning kilat kilat kilat kilat kilat
Thorn dugi dugi dugi dugi dugi
bato/
Rock bato bato bato bato
kabatohan
Enough sakto na hunong sakto na sakto na husto na
Last katapusan iwit timon katapusan katapusan
Branch sanga sanga sanga sanga sanga
zero sero baong wara/ ningar sero baong
second ikaduha ikaduha ikaduha ikaduha ikaduha
first first una/pirmiro first pirmiro pirmiro
fast paspas ikyat tulin paspas paspas
thin nipis nipis nipis nipis nipis
many damu/damui damu/ damuir damui/damu hamuk damu/ damui
crowd kadamuan arangi pundok/panon damu damu
darkness madugom madugŭme tugidloman dugom/ kadugom dugom
empty bakanti way loon bakanti basiyo basiyo
rice husk upa upa upa upa upa
livelihood panginabuhian panapi panginabuhian kabuhian panginabuhian
slow mahinay mahinay hinay hinay hinay
pair paris paris paris paris paris
beautiful gwapa gwapa gwapa gwapa gwapa
where? hain? hain hain hain? hain?
weather panahon panahon tempo panahon panahon
storm bantulinaw bagyo bagyo kulyada bagyo
leaf/ leaves dahon dahon dahon dahon dahon
fog gabon gabon gabon gabon gabon
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ocean dagat dagat lawud lawud lawud

forest lasang guwangan guwangan guwangan guwangan
clouds panganod panganod panganod panganod panganod
servant masugo masugo masugo masugo masugo
rice seedling similya similya similya nan humay similya similya
carpenter panday panday panday panday panday
teacher maestra maestra maestra maestra magtutudlo
politician politiko politico politico pulitiko pulitiko
blacksmith pandayan pandayan pandayan pandayan pandayan
flower buwak buwak buwak buwak buwak
sun suga suga suga suga adlaw
pond lau linaw banhaan limot lau
air hangin hangin hangin hangin hangin
shadow lambong lambong lambong lagbong lambong
fisherman mananagat mangisdaay/ mangmingwitay maningisda mananagat mangingisda
river suba sapa/ suba suba suba suba
sky panganod panganod kawanangan kawanangan panganod

In the third domain – common terms, it can be noted that timawa. For the word what, all others will say unu but only
there are 20 different terms out of the 59 identified words in Tago will utter unu sa. For the word when, others say kinun-
this domain. These are the following: for the word poor it u but Tandag will say kagan-o. For the word waterfall, in
can be observed that all the Tandaganon-speaking Tandag and Bayabas it is tugunan, but for San Miguel and
municipalities say pobre except for San Miguel which is Cagwait it is busay while in Tago it is dapanas.

Table 12: Similarities and Differences of Tandaganon Terms in Domain 4

Action Words Tandag Tago San Miguel Bayabas Cagwait
sing kanta kanta kanta kanta kanta
draw drowing drowing drowing drowing drowing
exchange baylo baylo baylo baylo baylo
wash dishes gahugas gahugas gahugas gahugas gahugas
fall yadabas yadabas yadabas yadabas yahūg
count ihap ihap ihap kwenta ihap
talk gatabi gatabi gatabi gaistoryahay gatabi
cook tugna galuto galuto galuto galuto
walk gapanaw gapanaw gapanaw gabaktas gapanaw
scold gatiyab inkasakitan inkaisgan gatiyab inkasakitan
break yabuak yabuung yabuak yabuak yabuak
ride gasakay gasakay gasakay gasakay gasakay
shout gasinggit gasinggit gasyagit gasinggit gasinggit
swim langoy langoy langoy langoy langoy
dream damgo damgo damgo damgo damgo
kick sipa sipa sipa sipa sipa
pull guyod guyod bira bira guyod
push tūd tūd duso tūd tūd
bring gabitbit gabitbit gadā gadā gadā
give hatag hatag hatag hatag hatag
hit yaigo yaigo/ inkigdan yaigo yaigo yaigo
buy gapalit gapalit gapalit gapalit yangumpra
sleep turog turog turog turog turog
dig gakabot/ galungag galungag/ gakabot gakabot/ galungag gakabot/ galungag gakabot/ galungag
plant tanom tanom tanom tanom tanom
clean limpyo limpyo hinlo hinlo limpyo
stand indog indog indog indog indog
stay gahuya gahunong/gapuyo gahuya/paghuya gahuya gapahuya
fight gaaway gasinumbagay gasinumbagay gaaway gaaway
fry pirito pirito pirito pirito pirito
argue irgo gadiskote lalis lalis lalis
write suwat suwat suwat suwat suwat
dance sayaw sayaw sayaw sayaw sayaw
harvest gaani gagalab gaani gaani gagalab
run dagan dagan dagan dagan dagan
play duwa duwa duwa duwa duwa
wash clothes laba laba laba laba laba
pray gaampo gaampo gaampo gaampo gaampo
read gabasa gabasa gabasa gabasa gabasa
boil gasubo gasubo bukal gapasubo gasubo

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In this domain, the action words. There are 40 identified speakers unintelligible from each other. Nevertheless,
terms but only 14 terms are different, these are the Barzan and Heydari postulated that all the aspects of
following: for the word walk, others say it gapanaw but in language, which include morphemes, syntactic structures,
Bayabas it is gabaktas. The word fall is yadabas in Tandag, meanings, and phonemes, are subject to variation. Thus,
Tago, San Miguel, and Bayabas but in Cagwait it is yahūg. variation in language use among its speakers or group of
The word break in Tago is yabuung but others will say it speakers is a remarkable point of reference that can happen
yabuak. Amazingly, there are terms where Tandaganon in accent (pronunciation), lexicon (word choice), or even the
speak differently but all these Tandaganon-speaking preferences for a grammar pattern. Moreover, a dialect is a
municipalities understand each other very well. variation in grammar and vocabulary in addition to
Justin Jon Rudelson, in his book Central Asia Phrasebook phonology. Thus, the extent of dialectal differences is a
Languages of the Silk Road, as cited by Hudson, asserts that continuum; while other dialects are less different, some are
as a person traverses throughout the heart and boundary of extremely different [2]. In the study of Ojanola, where the
Central Asia, it could be concluded that the Turkic participants are the four Blaan communities in the
languages are dialects of one another and are not unique SOCCSKSARGEN Region he clearly postulated that the
languages which further implies that if one can learn even Blaan language varies from one context to another within
one, then he can comprehend the majority of the Turkic the region (405). This event clearly indicates that language
languages. These Turkic languages constitute a continuum variation is present everywhere.
of closely related dialects [8]. However, Rudelson refers to
the z-Turkic (common Turkic) language; the Turkmen, The Researcher’s Insights from The Data Gathered
Uzbek, Kazakh, Kirgiz, and Uighur, since the Turkic The researcher interviewed 50 different people from the
language has two main branches; the r-Turkic and z-Turkic. Tandaganon-speaking municipalities of Surigao del Sur;
On the contrary, in the Tandaganon language, though the thus, she gained a significant understanding from carefully
speakers are from the neighboring municipalities, there is analyzing the data. Below are the themes that come up upon
some vocabulary in domain four that is different from one the validation of data.
municipality to the other but this case does not make the

Table 13: Themes on the Insights Drawn

San Miguel, P7: When our youth decides to move and get married elsewhere, as they get back
they bring other terms in Tandaganun
Tago, P5: When children get married, they also marry the languages they got from other cities or
Variation in phonological and
places.
morphological features are
Bayabas, P4: Also, when parents send their children to college and enroll in big universities, they
noticeable as people study, move or
learn new terms there, too.
marry in other places
Tandag, P3: Native intonations, become mixed up with other natives as they get exposure in the
cities.
Cagwait, P3: We learn new terms because we hear it from other speakers in town.
Bayabas, P2:In the municipality of San Miguel there are members of cultural minority there. They
have different language there and in Tago I can say that they are also different it is not the same.
San Miguel, P5: There are Bol-anons with a mixture of races like pure Bisaya, Cebuano,
and Ilokano, then exposed with other natives of Tandag.
Tandag, P6: Because of the population, we have now a mixture of races then there are also
migrants who choose to work here.
Migration brought variation
San Miguel, P4: San Miguel is a confusing place because it is a mixture of races; we have here
cultural minorities, Bisaya, and Ilokano. We, the old folks here are from Tago.
San Miguel, P2: Here in San Miguel, different people are living in this place.
Tago, P6: Because the people here are actually different. When you go to Tandag few kilometers
from there the people there are using another language. In Cagwait as well, the people there are
different.
Tandag, P9: Maybe it is because of the different people who came here then they stay here for work.
Tandag, P7: It is maybe because of the different people who came here and choose to work here
Language migration is evident due to
San Miguel, P1: It is because of the different people who come to work here
transfer of residence or livelihood
Tandag, P1: This is maybe because of the migrants that is why folks here tend to imitate their
reasons
language
San Miguel, P10: Also, our place seems to be inviting migrants since there are many migrants here.

When the participants were interviewed, they all knew how study of Penera about the Surigaonon language, she firmly
to speak Tandaganon. Others know more than one variety of postulated that intermarriages steered Surigaonons to meet
Tandaganon. Some are educated and are living with people who speak other languages, and then they speak
grandchildren and their children. The first theme unveiled in some of these languages in formal circumstances, resulting
this study is Variation in phonological and morphological in the adoption and use of non-Surigao terms and nativizing
features, which are noticeable as people study, move, or them (122). This is what the participants of this study
marry in other places. The participants are aware that there believe. Whenever their children look for greener pastures,
are phonological and morphological variations in frequently when they come back, they bring along with
Tandaganon. They all point out that Tago uses ir in their use them a new language, a language that they learned due to
of adjective. Moreover, the tone of the people of Tago their internal migration activity. Thus, this participant’s
contains more stress than other localities. However, in the belief confirms the paper of Sibiri et al., which posits that
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the spatial mobility of people from one area to another (National Commission for Culture and the Arts). However,
significantly impacts the first language of the immigrants the prioritization of English and Filipino as dominant
(18). languages has led to the marginalization of some indigenous
The second theme uncovered is that migration brought languages, reflecting a linguistic ideology that favors
racial differences. From what the participants observe, some specific languages over others (Zeng and Li 2) [37]. With 183
migrants who have stayed in their place for a long time have living languages, preserving regional and indigenous
not changed their language; instead, they have become an languages requires structural fixes and institutional support.
agent bringing a new language. These migrants become Preserving the country’s languages is crucial for
lifetime migrants since they have established their own decolonizing history and understanding culture and heritage.
families in this province and thus adopt a new culture that The power of language can be used to decolonize histories
helps them strive in their new environment, making the and promote sovereignty, as it provides access to culture and
locality a culturally diverse municipality. However, one of a deeper understanding of roots and colonial histories. Thus,
the participants in Tandag shares her feelings toward her while the language policies in the Philippines prioritize
neighbor, a Boholano. She clearly stated that it is like they specific languages, there is a growing recognition of the
have in their place an invisible barrier where both locales importance of preserving and promoting the country’s
interact, but they are using their different language. diverse linguistic heritage.
Boholanos resist using Tandaganon, and the native speakers In addition, the R.A. 7104 is the act that created the
do not speak their language. However, both parties Commission on the Filipino Language, or now the so-called
understand each other very well. Language attrition is not an Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino, tasked to undertake,
issue in this place, making the place culturally diverse. The coordinate, and promote research for the expansion,
municipality of San Miguel is also the same; they have in generation, and conservation of Filipino and other
their place Ilocanos, Bisaya, Surigaonons, and indigenous Philippine languages. Along with this purpose is the creation
groups, but all these people interact and come to an of the MTB-MLE curriculum by the Department of
understanding with each other in the same place and time. Education, which is to advance the cognitive and reasoning
Language contact is evident in this locality (Thomason 1) skills of the learning children to engage in different
[36]
. languages – commencing in their first language with the
The third theme found in this study is that language transition to Filipino and then English to equally preserve
migration is evident due to transfer of residence or Philippine cultural treasure. The said curriculum is expected
livelihood reasons. The municipality of San Miguel has to have a significant impact on the preservation of the major
more Ilocano migrants. Native speakers say that it is and minor languages of the Philippines by providing a
because of the vast land area of their place since Ilocanos framework that supports language development, cognitive
are land-loving people. In the study of Eberhard, he strongly growth, academic success, and socio-cultural awareness.
discusses that the determinants of internal migration in the Moreover, in the province of Surigao del Sur setting,
Philippines are education, wealth, and status. With these specifically in the Tandaganon-speaking localities, the first
three, he further claims that migration due to employment language is not utilized. Instead, Sinugbuhanong-Binisaya is
and intermarriages threaten the native language’s use (1). used in instructional materials. Even if the regional language
For the Tandaganons who have experienced internal is utilized, Surigaonon is also a different language. This
migration and have contact with non-Tandaganon speakers, makes it difficult for learners to understand; thus,
the chances of adopting a new language are great. Some accomplishing the objective of MTB-MLE is a challenging
evidence clearly shows that internal migration reduces task.
poverty reduction and economic development (Deshingkar Tandaganon language can be applied in crafting
and Grimm 4), and people usually migrate for greener instructional materials so that the learners will not have
pastures, safety, and the belief that by doing so, they can difficulty understanding the vocabulary used. Furthermore,
achieve their dreams in life (Galleto et al. 1) [11]. This is since the province is a linguistically diverse area, it may also
similarly true from the experience of one of the participants. be considered that the usage of other languages is
She was born in one of the municipalities of Surigao del incorporated into the MTB-MLE classrooms. On top
Sur, but she stayed in Tandag for more than 50 years. She of this, language revitalization and preservation can be given
said that the reason for leaving her hometown was too much enough action. As the researcher claims, though its vitality
poverty in her place, but in Tandag, she said that as long as is stable, it continues to be threatened by intermarriages and
you strive hard, you can eat three times a day and send your internal migration. As culture and language are intertwined,
children to school. Moreover, since she grew up in this city, significant endeavors can be made. Thus, the loss of cultural
she and her family speak the language fluently. Her heritage, disruption of intergenerational transmission, non-
children, born and raised in Tandag, are native speakers of preservation of oral traditions, and, in the worst-case
Tandaganon. scenario, language death may be avoided.

Implications and Concluding Remarks Implication for Future Research

Implication for Linguistic Practice It is the call of the linguists to study languages that are still
The Philippines is a multilingual country; it has language unknown to mankind’s knowledge. Documentation and
policies that prioritize language diversity and preservation to revitalization are already part and parcel of this language
conserve the country’s cultural legacy and achieve social preservation efforts. Hence, preserving the minor languages
fairness. The 1987 Constitution emphasizes the propagation in the Philippines is pivotal for maintaining the country’s
of Filipino as a literacy language, the development of rich linguistic diversity and cultural heritage. Some
Filipino as a symbol of national unity, and the maintenance approaches can be taken into consideration to attain the goal
of English as an international language for the Philippines of preserving minor languages; the first is community
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involvement. Permission from the communities themselves but as a language educator, it also bothers me so much that
is significant for this project. Initiatives should involve and these kids, little by little, do not know how to speak their
respect the communities whose languages are being tongue. How did it happen? It is undoubtedly because of the
preserved. The second is documenting rituals and traditions. frequent screen time that our children spend in a day
Projects documenting rituals and traditions, like the watching their favorite videos or movies. We, as parents,
kapagipat ritual of Maguindanao, require gaining permission became so proud that they learned it in just a little time. But
and involvement from the community, highlighting the are we not sad? On the other hand, our language is slowly
importance of respecting the cultural significance of the threatened due to our negligence.
language. Third is awareness and education. Our children are significantly influenced by the language
In addition, raising awareness about linguistic diversity in they often hear on their phones and television. Then we
the Philippines is essential. Efforts can be made to educate often wonder, how in the world did they learn all these? The
people, especially in the urban areas, about the importance human brain is truly one of the most fantastic creations ever
of preserving and respecting minor languages. Fourth is the made by God, and even neuro-scientists sometimes cannot
promotion of non-verbal literature. Recognizing the explain certain circumstances. We thought that we were
necessity of non-verbal literature as an important part of any already free from American colonization years ago, but the
language is necessary which may include preservation of reality speaks that we are slowly turning our backs on our
oral traditions, songs, and other forms of non-written own identity and culture as Filipinos. Embedded in our
language expression. Lastly, the incorporation of language blood are our language and culture, different from our
preservation in education. Integrating language preservation colonizers. Thus, this paper challenges linguists and
efforts into the education system, such as through the linguists alike to document and help preserve our languages,
Mother Tongue-Based Multilingual Education (MTB-MLE) as it is our primary concern to advance the frontier of
curriculum, can play a significant role in preserving minor language.
languages. Therefore, with the community’s involvement, Thus, Wade David, a National Geographic Explorer, once
raising awareness, and integration of preservation efforts said that language is not only a vocabulary or a set of
into education, the Philippines, a multilingual country, can grammatical rules. A language shows the human spirit. It is
work towards conserving its rich linguistic heritage. a vehicle whereby the soul of every culture comes into the
Furthermore, as a language educator, language preservation material world. There are many contentions in the efforts to
is also the author's concern. Incorporating language identify dialect, variety, and many others to resolve the
preservation in teaching can be achieved through different understanding of the variation phenomena. Still, one thing is
strategies that focus on respecting and valuing the cultural for sure: human beings use language to connect. In as much
and linguistic diversity of students. The first is to embrace as the knowledge of the scholars in dealing with many
student’s native languages. Teachers can encourage students trivial matters in language may each man make use of this
to use their native languages in the classroom. This instrument to communicate better, emphatic to one another
approach helps to create a space where students’ assets and and achieve harmonious relationships even if there are
cultures are recognized, fostering a sense of belongingness differences in race and culture.
and pride. The second is to teach students native languages.
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