A Sociolinguistic Analysis of the Surigaonon Language: Demographics, Usage, and Linguistic Patterns for Preservation Strategies in Surigao del Norte

Abstract

The study aims to explore the status of the Surigawnon language in the province of Surigao del Norte as a basis for any initiatives to be implemented for the preservation of the local first language. A descriptive design was used, as qualitative method with the help of sociolinguistic analysis, interviews, observations (FGD), and wordlists/questionnaires. This examines language attitudes, dominant indigenous language and causes of influence. Purposive sampling was used for interviews / FGD which inssvolved 210 Surigaonon informants aged 20-50 and above from each municipality; while quota sampling was employed to select respondents who answered the questionnaires representing each municipality in Surigao province, targeting approximately 1,050 residents. The data were analyzed using frequency and percentage. It was found that 63.9% use Surigawnon as their first language, while 36.1% speak other languages due to influence. The primary cause of this is labor migration in farming and fishing, mostly by migrants from Bohol, Cebu, Leyte, and others. Mining and business have also become current threats, weakening the stability of the first language. The language attitude of Surigaonon speakers showed that 55% always speak Surigawnon; 15% use it only occasionally; and 30% understand but do not speak it. The influence of other languages has intensified due to continued job seeking, marriage, and higher education. Although still spoken, Surigawnon is critically endangered. It is recommended to continue language programs and initiatives to create ordinances that will be implemented in all sectors to speak and write in the Surigawnon first language.