Linguistic Survey of Milagros, Masbate-edited version

Linguistic Survey of Milagros, Masbate 2009

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A LINGUISTIC SURVEY OF

MILAGROS, MASBATE

MICHAEL WILSON I. ROSERO 2007-00303

MRS. IRMA PENEYRA

LINGUISTICS 121


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TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.0. Acknowledgement 3

2.0. Introduction 4

3.0. General Information on Masbate 5

3.1. History 6

3.2. Subdivision 9

3.3. Ethnic Groups 9

3.4. Topography 10

3.5. Climate 10

3.6. Places of Interest 11

4.0. Language Identification 14

4.1. Masbatenyo as a Language 14

4.2. Dialects of Masbatenyo 14

4.3. Literature on the Language 15

5.0. The Municipality of Milagros 16

5.1. Barangays of Milagros 18

6.0. Linguistic Survey of Milagros, Masbate 19

7.0. Conclusion 45

8.0. Journal 47

9.0. Bibliography 54

10.0. Appendix 55


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1.0. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Grateful acknowledgement is due to the following for the help and understanding they have

rendered me to be able to accomplish this paper:

Mrs. Irma Peneyra, for being such a wonderful mentor. Your previous experiences and

adventures that you have told us in the class really inspired me in doing my linguistic survey. And they

have given me the idea to focus my future linguistic researches on Masbatenyo. This is already my

second paper on the language and I hope to do more research on the subject. I hope that you will always

be there to guide me in my future endeavors

I’m also grateful to my Linguistics professors, Mrs. Ria Parsram-Rafael (Lingg 110), Ms. Laarni

Cepe (Lingg 115), Mr. Marfeal Santiago (Lingg 120) and Ms. Viveca Hernandez (Lingg 130, 140). Thank

you for everything you have taught me in this course. I will never regret my decision of choosing

Linguistics. And never will I think of shifting out again. Linguistics is much more fun than what I

expected.

To my uncle, Mr. Luwen Rosero. Thank you for accompanying me in my survey and giving us a

ride; driving us along the breathtaking zigzag road and the mountainous area down south of Milagros.

To my cousin, Dave, thank you for being my assistant and constant companion from the beginning until

the end of my journey. And of course, thank you to my relatives with whom I stayed during my

vacation/survey period.

To my family, muchisimas gracias! Thank you for everything.

To my friends and fellow linguists, thank you very much. Good luck!

Of course, this survey will not be possible if not for the cooperation and hospitality of my

informants (see Appendix), National Satistics Office (NSO) and the Office of the Mayor-Municipal

Government of Milagros.

Thank you!


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2.0. INTRODUCTION

Masbate is just a small province consists of three island; namely Masbate, Ticao and Burias. It is

also known as the Rodeo Capital of the Philippines. These basic geographical data are well-known.

However, other essential data that concerns the province are not given enough attention.

There are but a very few researches and studies that have been done on Masbatenyo language.

Aside from several instructional and religious materials, there is no other published work on the

language. This shows that as a language, Masbatenyo is not a well-researched area in the field of

linguistic and there really is a need for further discussion of the said language and the area where it is

spoken as first language.

This paper is another attempt to study the language. It is linguistic survey of the municipality of

Milagros in the province of Masbate. The researcher intends to present data and information that concern

the Masbatenyo language and other languages spoken in Masbate, especially in the municipality of

Milagros on a per-barangay basis. The survey has been conducted not only for the main purpose of

giving an overview of the languages spoken in the place but also to give an idea of what Masbate and

Masbatenyos are.

Masbate is nonetheless still a huge area for one to conduct a survey. For that, this paper will only

attempt to interpret data and consequently draw conclusions concerning the languages spoken in the

municipality of Milagros in the province of Masbate, and the number of those who speak each as their

mother language. The data gathered are from random people, with whom the researcher had no

knowledge about, who served as informants and who qualified as such. All data concerning the statistics

were obtained from the informants, although preliminary demographic figures were provided by the

local office of the National Statistics Office (NSO).

This paper has achieved its purpose mainly through direct interaction with the people of

Milagros. Field works, interviews and other researches were done to gather the data needed. Knowledge

on Philippine linguistics is also of great help in conducting the survey.

Aside from the statistics, other sections of this paper will deal with the essential information

about Masbate in general, Masbatenyo language and the municipality of Milagros.


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3.0. GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT MASBATE

Figure 1.0

Map of the Philippines with Masbate highlighted

The Province of Masbate lies at the center of the Philippine Archipelago between latitudes 11

degrees 43 minutes north and 21 degrees 36 minutes north, 123 degrees 9 minutes east and 124 degrees 15

minutes east. It is composed of a wedge-shaped mainland (Masbate), two major islands (Ticao and

Burias) and 14 small islands. It is bounded on the north by the Bicol Mainland, on the south by the

Visayan Sea, on the west by Sibuyan Sea and on the east by the Burias Pass, Ticao Pass and Samar Sea.

The province covers a total land area of 4,047.7 square kilometers. It is politically subdivided into

three congressional districts, 20 municipalities, one city and 550 barangays. Masbate had a population of

707,668 as of the 2000 census, growing at an average rate of 1.71 percent from 1995 to 2000. The province

had an average population density of 174.8 persons per square kilometer.


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Masbate is the biggest cattle raising province in the region. Its main economic activity is

agriculture with copra, rice, corn and tobacco as its main products. Fishing is also a major industry in the

province. Until lately, the province is the site of the biggest gold mining operation in the region. Other

minerals found in the island province are manganese and limestone.

Due to its geographic location, Masbate is a melting pot of dialects and cultures. Residents in the

capital town of Masbate speak the native Masbateño with a mixture of the Bicol dialect; natives of

Cataingan, Palanas, and Dimasalang along its east coast use Samar-Visayan; residents from Pio V.

Corpus, Cataingan and Placer in the south speak Bohol and Cebu Visayan; along the western coast of

Mandaon and Balud, people converse in Ilongo and Capiceño; natives of the Burias island talk in variants

of the Bicol dialect and Visayan due mainly to the droves of migrants to the island during the sixties.

Fast Facts:

3.1. HISTORY1

3.1.1. Pre-Colonial Period

Before the Spaniards came, the province was part of the province of Sorsogon. The province is

administrated by the Diocese of Sorsogon during the Spanish times.

1 This historical account is obtained from a book written by Orlando Almario about Masbate, namely:

Masbate: Men and Events

Region Bicol Region (Region V)

Capital Masbate City

Divisions

- Highly urbanized cities 0

- Component cities 1

- Municipalities 20

- Barangays 550

- Congressional districts 3

Population 33rd largest

- Total (2007) 768,939

- Density 190/km² (48th highest)

Area 30th largest

- Total 4,047.7 km²

Founded March 10, 1917

Spoken languages Masbatenyo, Cebuano, Hiligaynon and Bikol

Governor Elisa Olga Kho


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The islands of Masbate were formed out of volcanic rocks over one hundred million years ago.

Many millions of years later, humans made their appearance in the tropical regions of the earth.

They lived on wild animals, plants, and fruits. They made tools of stone, bone, and wood. Some of these

very early stone tools and bones have been found in Masbate

Village settling grew from the development of farming; pottery flourished, stone tools were

improved and the early Masbate farmers made axes of polished stones. Many stone axes of this kind have

been found in Masbate. They are the remains of the first farmers who used the axes to cut down trees.

The early farmers also made beautiful ornaments of shells. They buried their dead in burial caves and

jars. Two large caves in Masbate, the Bat-ongan Cave in Mandaon and the Kalanay Cave in Aroroy are

known worldwide as burial caves.

About four hundred years B.C., iron and glass as well as woven cloth appeared in Masbate. The

stone tools gradually disappeared; agriculture improved. Beautiful decorated pottery was produced.

Unearthed fragments of porcelain tell of the brisk trade that existed with China.

3.1.2. Colonial Period

When Captain Luis Enriquez de Guzman anchored on the shores of Masbate in 1569, he found

tiny settlements spread along the coasts engaged in flourishing trade with China. Chinese traders visited

Masbate and founded small settlements during the Shri-Vijayan and Madjapahit periods. Ruins of cave-

like dwellings resembling “kiva” (possibly built by Indians who accompanied the Chinese traders), were

found along the coasts of Aroroy, Palanas, and Masbate. Porcelain jars dating back to the 10th century

were excavated at Kalanay (Aroroy) in the 1930s.

Historical accounts show that the Christianization of the Bicol Region actually began in Masbate

in 1569:

Father Alonso Jimenez was the first missionary to the islands of Masbate, Burias, Leyte, and Samar. Then

he went to Ibalon (Bicol) in the provinces of Camarines, where he resided many years, and made many religious

incursions into Albay and Sorsogon. Fray Jimenez is considered the apostle of the island of Masbate.

In December 1600, Dutch Commander Admiral Oliver van Noorth, sought refuge at San Jacinto

Harbor after his fleet lost to the Spanish Armada in Manila. He was later engaged in a fierce clash with

Limahong’s fleet at Canlibas-Matabao passage.

At the height of the Galleon Trade, Mobo contributed first class lumber for the construction of

galleons, making it the center of trade in the province and was the capital of the province in the early part

of the Spanish occupation.

In 1864, Masbate was declared a separate province from Albay. Guiom was made the capital

while Ticao became a commandancia-politico-militar. Shortly before the declaration of Philippine


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independence by President Emilio Aguinaldo, the town of Masbate was established as the provincial

capital.

The Americans came to Masbate in 1900 to extend their pacification campaign. In December 1908,

Masbate was annexed to the province of Sorsogon. A bill declaring Masbate as independent province was

approved on February 1, 1922.

As early as 1906, the Masbate representative made the proposal to the United States Congress to

grant the Philippines her independence.

The first Japanese elements arrived in Mas bate the dawn of January 7, 1942 from Legazpi. They

landed in several places without facing opposition- the province was too stunned to mount any

resistance.

3.1.3. Masbate as an Independent Province

The Second Philippine Commission (the Taft Commission) organized the islands of Masbate,

Ticao and Burias into the Province of Masbate during their visit to the region in March 1901. Senor

Serrano, a native Masbateno, was appointed Governor of the province. Señor Serrano, a local was

appointed Governor; George Landers, a New York soldier, was appointed Supervisor; Lieutenant Snyder

of the Twenty-seventh Infantry Regiment was appointed Treasurer. The province had about 40,000

inhabitants at that time

In 1901, a very strong typhoon hit Masbate badly and seriously crippled its economy when

coconut plantations, forests and 90% of the houses were severely devastated. Governor Henry C. Ide

issued an Executive Order annexing Masbate to the Province of Sorsogon under the Philippine

Commission Act 1413 enacted on November 23, 1905 which took effect on January 1, 1906.

During the year 1917, Masbate became independent of its mother province, Sorsogon. Pio V.

Corpuz became its first governor after the American times. The municipality of Pio V. Corpuz is named

in his honor.

The Philippine Legislative Act 2934, approved on December 5, 1920, implemented by Executive

Order No.3 dated January 9, 1921 and was made effective on February 15, 1921, mandated the separation

of Masbate from Sorsogon as a separate Province

3.1.4. Second World War

The first Japanese elements arrived in Masbate at dawn on January 7, 1942 from Legazpi. They

landed in several places without facing opposition – the province was too stunned to mount any

resistance. The Japanese occupation reduced Masbate to economic shambles. Economic activities were

limited to fishing, buying/selling or stealing. Food production ground to a halt. Camote, pakol, banana

blossoms, pith, and even such obscure fruits as barobo were used as food substitutes. Lakan-bulan served

as cigarette, tea or coffee. Barter transaction prevailed. For lack of nutrition and sanitation, many people

succumbed to beri-beri or malaria. Lice and tick infestations spread to an unlucky few.


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In 1945, Masbate was re-colonized by the combined United States and Philippine Commonwealth

forces with the recognized Masbateño guerrilla units, which attacked the Japanese Imperial forces

beginning the Battle of Masbate

Dr. Mateo S. Pecso, who was governor of the province, having refused to cooperate with the

Japanese, evacuated the provincial government to Guiom, a command post used by the guerillas. Pecson

was eventually arrested by the Japanese and incarcerated in Cavite. He managed to escape; he later

joined the guerilla movement in Central Luzon.

Dr. Emilio B. Espinosa, the lone house representative of Masbate, fought against a congressional

bill authorizing the conscription of Filipinos into service of Imperial Japan and for this he was detained in

Fort Santiago.

When Masbate was formally liberated on April 3, 1945, Pecso was sent to Masbate by President

Osmeña to organize the civil government. Pecso took reins of government on May 11, 1945.

3.2. SUBDIVISION

The province of Masbate, composed of 20 municipalities, 1 component city, 550 barangays2, and

a political and corporate unit of government, serves as a dynamic mechanism for development processes

and effective governance of local government units in its territorial jurisdiction.

Masbate is divided into three legislative districts. Each legislative district comprises contiguous,

compact and adjacent territory1. Each district is represented by one (1) Congress member.

The First District (composed of the municipalities of San Pascual and Claveria in Burias Island;

and the municipalities of Monreal, San Jacinto, San Fernando, and Batuan in Ticao Island) is represented

in the Sangguniang Panlalawigan by two (2) board members. They speak for a combined population of

144,580.

The Second District (composed of 7 municipalities: Aroroy, Baleno, Masbate, Mobo, Balud,

Mandaon, and Milagros with a combined population of 259,742 is represented by 4 SP members.

The Third District (composed of 8 municipalities: Cataingan, Dimasalanag, Palanas, Pio V.

Corpus, Uson, Cawayan, Esperanza, and Placer with a combined population of 249,319) is represented by

four (4) SP members.

3.3. ETHNIC GROUPS

More than half of the people (58.7%) speak Masbateño while one-third (33.3%) speak Cebuano.

Only 2.0% speak the Bicolano dialect.


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Ethnically, as well as geographically, the province is part of the Sibuyan Sea group of islands

which includes Romblon, Marinduque, Sibuyan and many other small islands. There is an admixture of

Visayan and Bicolano cultures in the area, and their language, Masbateño, is a Bisakol blend of Capiznon,

Hiligaynon, Bikol, Waray-Waray, Cebuano, Romblomanon and Tagalog. Most of Masbate Island speaks

Masbateño, but the peninsula which points towards Cebu speaks Cebuano and the peninsula which

points towards Panay speaks Hiligaynon. All of Ticao Island and half of Burias Island speak Masbateño,

but northern Burias speaks Central Bikol.

3.4. TOPOGRAPHY

The general surface configuration of the province ranges from slightly undulating to rolling and

from hilly to mountainous. In each island, the rugged topography is concentrated in the north-

northeastern and gradually recedes to blunt hills and rolling areas in the south, southeast and southwest.

The topography of the main island is characterized by rolling hills and discontinuous ranges of

highlands and relatively broad bands of lowlands. On its northwestern tip are limestone cliffs which rise

almost perpendicularly from the waterline. Several bays indent the coast of the island, the most

important of which are Port Barrera and Masbate Bay. The long and narrow islands of Ticao and Burias

are separated from the larger island by the water of Masbate Pass. Ticao Island appears to be the summit

of high submarine mountains which is why topography is generally rugged, with very limited expanse of

level land. The eastern coast of Burias Island is characterized by broad promontories and sea cliffs. The

southern boundary of the province encloses the Asid Gulf which extends to the Visayan Sea. The

Jintotolo Channel forms a demarcation between Masbate and Panay islands. The northwestern coast of

the main island faces the Sibuyan Sea. Off the western and southern coasts lie scattered reefs and corals.

3.5. CLIMATE

Burias and Ticao islands and the western and central parts of mainland Masbate are covered by a

climate characterized by no very pronounced maximum rain period, with a short dry season. The

southeastern parts of Masbate Island have rainfall more or less evenly distributed throughout the year.

The rainfall distribution in the province of Masbate is influenced by the air streams, tropical

cyclones, inter-tropical convergence zone and topography. Masbate has the lowest average annual

rainfall distribution in Bicol. The highest mean monthly and annual temperatures in the region are also

recorded in the province


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3.6. PLACES OF INTEREST

Masbate, the province, the island, and its capital, occupies a transitional position between Bicol

and the Visayas. Like an arrowhead, it lies between the main route south; that is, the Manila-Tacloban

highway and the sea lanes of Cebu and the Western Visayas. Its arrowhead tip points to the north,

separated by Jintotolo Island from Panay Island on the south.

Composed of three main islands, Ticao, Burias and Masbate, one can enjoy its beaches, scenic

hilly landscapes and warm hospitality of the residents.

Limestone Hills

Limestone Hills, Kalanay, Aroroy, Masbate . Believed to have been inhabited by the Kalanay

people. These early inhabitants practiced jar burials. Excavations yielded human bones.

Bat-ongan Caves

Bat-ongan Caves, Mandaon, Masbate are found in this mole-like mountain, famous for its

numerous chambers and beautiful rock formation towering at about 150 feet. The caves offer tourists a

thrilling experience in steep rock-climbing up to the highest peak.

Villa Bayot, Masbate , Masbate This house was constructed in 1880. In its dining room, Spanish

authorities enjoyed the best wines from Manila and Acapulco and the largest lobsters from Masbate Bay.

During the Commonwealth period, President Manuel L. Quezon is said to have danced the tango in its

halls and slept in its finest bedroom. The Japanese used it as their garrison. In 1944, the American

liberators shelled and bombed the capital but the big house was spared. It came under guerrilla siege to

dislodge the Japanese, but it remained unscathed.

In 1946, President Roxas visited Masbate and stayed in this house briefly to dance the waltz. His

hosts were Don Francisco Bayot and his granddaughter, 1937 Miss Philippines Chita Zaldarriaga

This is also home to the “Santo Intierro”. Every Friday, people queue here to say their prayers to

the “Santo”.

Kalanay Falls

A beautiful scenery, Kalanay Falls can be found in Nabangig, Palanas, Masbate

Bat-ongan Underground River

Bat-ongan Underground River, Mandaon. For daring and adventurous visitors. It is

approximately 10 kilometers from the subterrane to Mandaon town.

Sombrero Island

Sombrero Island, San Pascual. Hat-shaped island with stretches of white sand beaches.


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Cagpating Island

Cagpating Island, Monreal. It is noted for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful pebbles on one

side and a deep rocky side that provides a panoramic view of Masbate Island.

Underwater Cave

Underwater Cave, Claveria. This cave is located within the jurisdiction of Barangay Boca Engaño,

the entrance of which is undersea. During high tide, it will take even an unskilled diver only a few

seconds to enter the cave; it is neck-deep during low tide. Inside the cave are well-sealed human caskets

carved out of solid wood believed to be 500 years old that still contains human remains

Each casket measures 24 inches in length and 12 inches in width.

Tinalisayan Island

Tinalisayan Island. Located in Burias Island, this enchanting place is ideal for sunbathing and

swimming.

Bugui Point Lighthouse

Bugui Point Lighthouse, Aroroy. Located at barangay Gumahaang, constructed during the

Spanish era.

Jintotolo Lighthouse

Jintotolo Lighthouse, Jintotolo Island, Balud. Picturesque in its 19th century architecture.

Colorado Lighthouse

Colorado Lighthouse, Aroroy Believed to have been built during the Spanish era but renovated

during the American regime.

Aroroy Beach

Aroroy Beach A fast-becoming attraction among excursionists. Its unspoiled natural beauty is the

dominant feature.

Mataba-Tinigban to Napayauan Island

Mataba-Tinigban to Napayauan Island A five-kilometer stretch of glittering white sands. At

Napayauan Island, the surrounding water is full of marine life. It is ideal for snorkel and scuba diving.

San Isidro, Beach


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San Isidro, Beach, Claveria. This beach is located in barangay San Isidro extending south to east

from the barangay proper with an approximate and aggregate length of four (4) kilometers. Its fine and

silvery white sand can easily accommodate over a thousand people. The bottom of the sea is clear and

sandy extending some one hundred meters from the shoreline with a gradual depth of 5 to 7 feet during

high tide. Extending further from the shoreline are beautiful and colorful coral reefs which are inhabited

by a wide variety of fishes. The beach is lined by coconut trees.

Ki-Albay River and Beach

Ki-albay River and Beach, Claveria. This beach extends east-southeast from the town proper with

an approximate length of one and a half kilometers of sandy and well-polished pebbles ending in Ki-

albay River, a place believed to have been inhabited first by people from Albay, .

Matangtubig Spring

Matangtubig Spring, Monreal. A unique spring with three sources. The

spring comes out of a rock. Trees and lush vegetation give shade in the area around

the spring.

Catandayagan Falls

Catandayagan Falls, Ticao Island One of the most beautiful falls in the province. It cascades from

60 feet to its base where multi-colored fishes cavort. It is one hour by motorboat from the capital.

Talisay Beach

Famous for the rocks which serve as natural diving board for swimmers. This is found 13

kilometers southwest of San Fernando in Ticao Island. Smooth, shiny pebbles of various sizes abound.

Bontod Beach

A coral island southwest of Masbate, Masbate. Noted for its immaculate white sand. Its beautiful

surrounding water teems with exotic coral reefs. It is ideal for snorkel and scuba diving.

Bito-on Beach Resort

Bito-on Beach Resort, Mobo. A 30-minute ride from the capital by boat or jeepney. There are

cottages for picnickers and conference rooms for large groups. Food may be obtained right there.


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4.0. LANGUAGE IDENTIFICATION

4.1. MASBATENYO AS A LANGUAGE

Masbatenyo is the name used by the speakers of the language and for themselves, although the

term ‘Minasbate’ is sometimes also used to distinguish the language from the people.

Masbatenyo is a member of Central Philippines family of languages, spoken in Masbate and

some parts of Sorsogon. It is most closely related to Sorsoganon; the language of Sorsogon. This is

because Masbate was a part of Sorsogon Province and was governed from Sorsogon City until 1920s.

Masbatenyo is also closely related to Tagalog, the basis of the national language, and to Hiligaynon and

Cebuano.

Though Sorsogon (the southernmost province of Bicol) and Masbate are very much closer to Bicol

Peninsula, Sorsoganon and Masbatenyo shared the same grammatical systems which are close to that of

Hiligaynon, the trade language of Panay Island rather than that of Bicol.

The presence of competing grammatical and lexical subsystems in the language is the striking

characteristics of the language. This has probably been brought on by the influx of settlers from

surrounding major language groups who mixed in elements of their language with and alongside of the

Masbatenyo. This results to a number of semantic concepts that can be expressed by from two to five

alternate and different words for a single concept.

Masbatenyo is so unique in the sense of its being a mixed-up language. Speakers of the languages

often thought that their language is just a mixture of its neighboring languages which are Bikol, Waray-

Waray, Cebuano, Hiligaynon and Tagalog.

4.2. DIALECTS OF MASBATENYO

Wolfenden (2001) identified three major dialects of Masbatenyo: the western dialect centered

around the town of Balud on the western coast which is close to Capiz, the southern dialect centered

about the town of Cataingan in the southeastern part of Masbate and the northern dialect covering the

whole northern half of Masbate and centered on Masbate City, capital. In the far southern and

southwestern parts of Masbate Island, Cebuano is spoken as the home language. There are several lesser

dialects spoken in the small towns on the island of Ticao. In Burias, most of the speakers are Cebuano

who migrated from Cebu.


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4.3. LITERATURE ON THE LANGUAGE

The span of almost 50 years, from 1954 to 2001 only produced a few significant literatures on the

language. The first was An Maayo na Barita Hali sa Dios, a translation of The New which has been

published in three editions Testament (1954, 1967, 1972).

The second was Magbasa Kita Sin Masbatenyo 1-3 (1981) and Mga Kanta sa Simbahan which were

published by the Summer Institute of Linguistics-Philippines. Magbasa Kita Sin Masbatenyo is an

instructional material containing alphabet of Masbatenyo and sample words for each letter. It also

contains a few short stories told in Masbatenyo language.

Orlando Almario (1995) included in his book, Masbate: Men and Events a few copies of songs and

poems written in Masbatenyo that survived through the years. This book is an historical account of the

origin and development of Masbate, from the pre-historical period to the contemporary times.

The most important of these was the Masbatenyo-English Dictionary by Elmer Wolfenden (2001). It

is a compilation of Masbatenyo words and by far, the most comprehensive study on the language. The

dictionary contains a detailed description of Masbateño grammar. Wolfenden has also done several

studies on the phonemes of Masbatenyo and on the subject noun phrase of Masbatenyo.

Celeste Chia-Yen Lee (2008) discussed the clitic pronoun system of Masbatenyo. This includes the

placement of clitics in relation to other nonclitics in the clause, the identification of the clitic distribution

type and the relative ordering of pronominal clitics within the cluster. Lee (2008) concluded that

Masbatenyo attests a mixture of post-initial and verb-adjacent position types and the domain of

Masbatenyo clisis can be either prosodic or clausal.

The others were instructional materials and religious text. This only shows that there is really a

need for further discussion on the language and the area where it is spoken as a first language.


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5.0. MUNICIPALITY OF MILAGROS

Its original name was Asid after the Asid River. But natives presumably prefer to call their place

‘Milagros’. Legend has it that St. Joseph, its patron saint miraculously saved the inhabitants of Asid from

the raiding bandits by appearing at the shore with a legion of soldiers thus deterring the incursion of the

bandits to Asid. Milagros is the largest municipality of Masbate in area with 565.4 square kilometers.

Milagros has 27 barangays. The main sources of income are fishing, farming and cattle raising.

Figure 2.0

Map of Masbate with Milagros highlighted


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Figure 3.0.

Road Map of Milagros, Masbate


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5.1. BARANGAYS OF MILAGROS

Barangay Population*

Bacolod 2960

Bangad 3763

Bara 1788

Bonbon 738

Calasuche 2363

Calumpang 2051

Capaculan 1356

Cayabon 2007

Guinluthangan 804

Jamorawon 2829

Magsalangi 2396

Matagbac 1332

Matanglad 487

Matiporon 1032

Moises R. Espinosa 931

Narangasan 2133

Pamangpangon 613

Paraiso 2937

Poblacion East 1942

Poblacion West 3885

San Antonio 911

San Carlos 873

Sawmill 1274

Tagbon 1519

Tawad 1358

Tigbao 2882

Tinaclipan 1021

*As of August 1, 2007

Source: http://www.nscb.gov.ph


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6.0. LINGUISTIC SURVEY OF MILAGROS, MASBATE

This survey is done on a per-barangay basis. Three residents, ages ranging from 20-80 years old

were chosen as key informants for each barangay. They were chosen because: a) they are natives of the

place; b) they are knowledgeable about their native culture; b) they know how read and write; and d)

they are available for the interview.

In the case that no informants were available for interview, mainly because the area was not

accessible due to meteorological and geographical factors, the researcher made an approximation based

on the data elicited from the barangays that were already surveyed.

The barangays were arranged alphabetically.

BARANGAY BACOLOD

The key informants were Erlinda Danao, 44 years old who refers to Masbatenyo as Bisaya; Rosita

Canaway, 44 years old; and Milba Albarando, 57 years old. Mrs. Albarando speaks Cebuano

Summary:

Masbatenyo – 67%

Cebuano – 13 %

Hiligaynon (Ilonggo) -13 %

Bikolano – 5 %

Waray – 2 %

Barangay Bacolod

67%

13%13%

5%

2%

Masbatenyo

Cebuano

Hiligaynon

Bikolano

Waray


20

BARANGAY BANGAD

The informants were Charles Zurbito, 42 years old; Paquito Young, 70 years old (who was the former

barangay captain) and Marlon Young, 55 years old, the current barangay captain.

Summary:

Masbatenyo – more than 90 %

Cebuano – 5 %

Hiligaynon (Ilonggo) – 5 %

Other languages – less than 1 %

� Bikolano, Waray, Tagalog

Barangay Bangad

89%

5%5%1%

Masbatenyo

Cebuano

Hiligaynon

Others


21

BARANGAY BARA

Due to geographical and meteorological factors, the researcher was not able to go to Bara. Only one

informant was available to be interviewed. He was Anacleto Ibañez, 61 years old, a native of Barangay

Bara.

Summary:


Cebuano – 5 %


Barangay Bara

71%

5%

24%

Masbatenyo

Cebuano

Hiligaynon


22

BARANGAY BONBON

Similarly, Barangay Bonbon was also not accessible due to bad weather. Only one informant was found

and interviewed. Mr. Jojit Duaman was 31 years old and he is a native of Barangay Bonbon. He is a high

school teacher.

Summary:

Masbatenyo – 100 %

Barangay Bonbon

100%

Masbatenyo


23

BARANGAY CALASUCHE

The informants were owners of an eatery or carinderia near the port of Calasuche. They were Lilia

Lazaro, 62 years old, and Mr. and Mrs. Leonardo Candelario, 44 years old.

-

Summary:

Masbatenyo – less than 90 %

Cebuano – 5 %


Bikolano – less than 1 %

Barangay Calasuche

89%

5%5%1%

Masbatenyo

Cebuano

Hiligaynon

Bikolano


24

BARANGAY CALUMPANG (former Taisan)

The informants were Narciso Requiama, 29 years old and he was the teacher in-charge of Taisan

Elementary School; Nila Rico, 45 years old and Apolinario Pagayunan. They are both natives of Taisan

Elementary School.

Summary:


Cebuano - 10%


Barangay Calumpang

50%

10%

40%

Masbatenyo

Cebuano

Hiligaynon


25

BARANGAY CAPACULAN

The informants were Antonio de Jesus, 58 years old; Cynthia Amante, 40 years old, a teacher; and

Windolo Rosero, 72 years old.

Summary:

Masbatenyo – more or less 60 %

Cebuano - 25%



Barangay Capaculan

57%

24%

14%

5%

Masbatenyo

Cebuano

Hiligaynon

Bikolano


26

BARANGAY CAYABON

The informants interviewed were Januario Letada, 25 years old, the son of the barangay captain; Solomon

Cabug, 63 years old, a former high school teacher; and Nelia Estares, 28 years old, a teacher of Masbate

School of Fisheries.

Summary:

Masbatenyo – 92 %

Cebuano – 6 %


Barangay Cayabon

92%

6% 2%

Masbatenyo

Cebuano

Hiligaynon


27

BARANGAY GUINLUTHANGAN

Barangay Guinluthangan is an island separated from the rest of Milagros. The researcher was fortunate to

find Mark Candelario as informant. He is 22 years old and works as boatman and trader.

Summary:


Cebuano – 50 %

Barangay Guinluthangan

50%

50%

Masbatenyo

Cebuano


28

BARANGAY JAMORAWON

Barangay Jamorawon is separated form the rest of Milagros by a small river. It can be reached via

‘lantsa’, a big motor boat, which is a two-hour ride, from the port of Barangay Calasuche. However, due

to weather (which by that time is not good for traveling), the researcher was not able to go to Barangay

Jamorawon to conduct the survey. The following data is just an approximation done by the researcher.

Summary:


Cebuano – 5 %


Barangay Jamorawon

90%

5% 5%

Masbatenyo

Cebuano

Hiligaynon


29

BARANGAY MAGSALANGI

The case is similar to Barangay Jamorawon. Barangay Magsalangi is a part of Milagros, facing

Cebu and Panay Island.

Summary:


Cebuano – 25 %

Hiligaynon (Ilonggo) – more than 30 %

Waray – less than 1 %

Barangay Magsalangi

47%

24%

28%

1%

Masbatenyo

Cebuano

Hiligaynon

Waray


30

BARANGAY MATAGBAC

The case with Barangay Matagbac is similar to that of Barangays Magsalangi and Jamorawon.

The place is near to the part of Masbate peninsula which points toward Cebu.

Summary:


Cebuano – 20 %


Barangay Matagbac

50%

20%

30%

Masbatenyo

Cebuano

Hiligaynon


31

BARANGAY MATANGLAD

For Barangay Matanglad, only one informant was available for the suvey. He was Jojit Duaman, 31 years

old and a high school teacher

Summary:


Barangay Matanglad

100%

Masbatenyo


32

BARANGAY MATIPORON

Barangay Matiporon is situated on the northern part of Milagros which points toward Bicol

Peninsula.

The following informants were interviewed:

Raymunda Gonzales. She is 70 years old and a native of upper Matiporon

Roger Digos, 50 years old. He is the Provincial Head Coordinator of the Department of Agriculture. He is

a native of Lapu-lapu City, Cebu but has been in Matiporon for more than 30 yesrs. He speaks both

Masbatenyo and Cebuano

Mario Alba, 38 years old. He is the barangay captain of Matiporon

Summary:

Masbatenyo – 90 %

Cebuano - 4 %

Bikolano – 2 %



Barangay Matiporon

89%

4%3% 3%1%Masbatenyo

Cebuano

Hiligaynon

Bikolano

Waray


33

BARANGAY MOISES R. ESPINOSA

The northernmost and the highest part of Milagros. You have to drive along the zigzag road that

starts form Barangay Matiporon in order to get to the place.

The informants were:

� Avelina Fernandez dela Cruz, 50 years old. She is a kagawad of Brgy. M.R. Espinosa

� Ester Rapsing, 61 years old. She is a native of M.R. Espinosa and a teacher of M.R. Espinosa

Elementary School

� Evelen Canaway, 32 years old. A native of MR Espinosa and the wife of the barangay captain

Summary:

Masbatenyo – 90 %

Cebuano – 9 %

Other languages – 1 %

- Bikolano, Hiligaynon (Ilonggo) and Tagalog

Barangay Moises R. Espinosa

90%

9% 1%

Masbatenyo

Cebuano

Others


34

BARANGAY NARANGASAN

The main informants are:

� Charito Blancaver, 50years old. She is an elementary school teacher

� Vilma Fontelar, 64 years old, the principal of Narangasan Elementary School

� Luwen Rosero, 35 years, and a high school teacher at Serafin Rosero Memorial High School

Summary:

Masbatenyo – 90 %

Cebuano – 5 %



� Bikolano, Tagalog, Waray

Barangay Narangasan

89%

5% 5% 1%

Masbatenyo

Cebuano

Hiligaynon

Others


35

BARANGAY PAMANGPANGON

The southernmost part of Milagros, facing Iloilo. ‘Pamangpangon’ is a Masbatenyo term for ‘near

the shore’.

The informants were:

� Federico Tadipa, 52 years old. He speaks Hiligaynon/Ilonggo

� Jose Paglinawan, 77 years old and speaks Cebuano

� Vicky Villapando

Summary:


Cebuano - 20%


Barangay Pamangpangon

20%

20%

60%

Masbatenyo

Cebuano

Hiligaynon


36

BARANGAY PARAISO

It was formerly known as Potot, a Masbatenyo term for ‘short’ or ‘bansot/pandak’. This place is

basically a farming area.

Informants:

� Bobby Dalanon, 40 years old, barangay captain

� Romeo Rubio, 65 years old

� Leo Dalanon, 60 years old

Summary:


Cebuano – 5 %



� Bikolano, Tagalog

Barangay Paraiso

89%

5% 5% 1%

Masbatenyo

Cebuano

Hiligaynon

Others


37

BARANGAY POBLACION EAST

The only urban area of Milagros. Together with its sister barangay, Barangay Poblacion West, it is

often referred to as ‘Milagros’. These two barangays are situated at the center of the municipality.

Informants:

� Mildred Lasala, 43 years old, barangay secretary

� Dioleta Briosa, 55 years old

� Lucile de Jesus, 38 years old. She is the wife of the barangay captain

Summary:


Cebuano – 5 %



Barangay Poblacion East

62%

34%3%1%

Masbatenyo

Cebuano

Hiligaynon

Others


38

BARANGAY POBLACION WEST

Sister barangay of Poblacion East. It is the most populated and the urbanized part of Milagros. It

is the center of every activity in the municipality. This is where the main institutions are located.

Informants:

� Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Saldibar, 50 years old

� Lucia Cornal, 32 years old. She is the barangay Secretary

� Lolita de Jesus, 69 years old

� Erlinda Abinir, 64 years old

Summary:

Masbatenyo – 77 %

Cebuano – 13 %



� Waray and Boholano (also called as Cebuano)

Barangay Poblacion West

76%

13% 10%1%

Masbatenyo

Cebuano

Hiligaynon

Others


39

BARANGAY SAN ANTONIO

This place is located near the part of Masbate peninsula which points toward Cebu. Together

with Bara, Sawmill, Matagbac and other barangays of Milagros, the region in which this place is located

is difficult to reach. You need to cross a river in order to reach the said barangays. Due to geographical as

well as meteorological factors, the researcher was not able to actually conduct the survey. The following

data is just an approximation made by the researcher to complete the survey.

Summary:


Cebuano – 40 %


Barangay San Antonio

20%

40%

40%

Masbatenyo

Cebuano

Hiligaynon


40

BARANGAY SAN CARLOS

Informant(s):

� Ireneo Tabuada, 70 years old

- speaks Cebuano

Summary:


Cebuano – 30 %


Barangay San Carlos

45%

33%

22%

Masbatenyo

Cebuano

Hiligaynon


41

BARANGAY SAWMILL

Summary:


Cebuano – 15 %


Barangay Sawmill

70%

15%

15%Masbatenyo

Cebuano

Hiligaynon


42

BARANGAY TAGBON

Informants:

� Floreña Elles, 75 years old

� Maria Ever Guiguinto, 36 years old

Summary:

Masbatenyo – 90 %

Cebuano – 5 %


Barangay Tagbon

90%

5% 5%

Masbatenyo

Cebuano

Hiligaynon


43

BARANGAY TAWAD

� Pacita Cortes, 73 years old

- native of Mapili (Tawad) an area between Tawad and Matiporon

� Carmen Malinao, 56 years old

- teacher of Tawad Elementary School

� Leonila Ostia, 45 years old

- teacher

Summary:

Masbatenyo – 80 %

Cebuano - 15 %

Hiligaynon (Ilonggo) (Ilonggo) – 5 %


Barangay Tawad

79%

15% 5% 1%

Masbatenyo

Cebuano

Hiligaynon

Others


44

BARANGAY TIGBAO

From Barangay Tigbao, the informants were:

� Molex Broces, 28 years old

� Anna Gallo, 69 years old

� Clarita Manola, 53 years old

Summary:


Cebuano – 25 %



Barangay Tigbao

47%

24%

28%

1%

Masbatenyo

Cebuano

Hiligaynon

Waray


45

BARANGAY TINACLIPAN

Barangay Tinaclipan was formerly called ‘Bato’.

� Regino Ramaya, 33 years old

- boatman

� Manilyn Briol, 38 years old

� Marites Rosauro, 36 years old

Summary:

Masbatenyo – 90 %

Cebuano – 5 %



� Kinaray-a

Barangay Tinaclipan

89%

5% 5% 1%

Masbatenyo

Cebuano

Hiligaynon

Kinaray-a


46

7.0. CONCLUSION

Masbate surely lies at the center of the Philippines for its people speak every major language

group surrounding its area. The municipality of Milagros, at the same time is situated at the center of the

mainland Masbate, facing Cebu and Panay Island in which the two major languages, Cebuano and

Hiligaynon, have the largest number of speakers. This geographical location of the said places accounts

for the diversity of the languages that the population speaks.

While Masbatenyo remains to be the major language, having the largest percentage, Cebuano

and Hiligaynon still have a relatively large number of speakers. Other languages such as Bikolano, Waray

and Kinaray-a are spoken by those who migrated from the surrounding places and stayed in Masbate

province for good. They are also used as medium of trade. Meanwhile, Tagalog is used as medium of

instruction and is only used in the classroom. And being the national language, Filipino is used when

communicating with the other person who speaks another language that is not mutually intelligible with

Masbatenyo.

The following graph illustrates the percentage shared by each language.

Municipality of Milagros

70%

15%

14% 1%

Masbatenyo

Cebuano

Hiligaynon

Others

Migration and trade account for the existence of other languages such Cebuano and Hiligaynon,

which the Masbatenyo people refer to as Ilonggo. The area of Masbate peninsula that points toward Cebu

shows a large percentage of Cebuano-speaking population. On the other hand, the area that points

toward Panay Island shows a large percentage of Hiligaynon-speaking population.

The survey that has been conducted is not very accurate. The data that are presented in this paper

is based mainly on the given by the informants. Several factors have to be considered in conducting the

survey. The researcher has done it best to accomplish this report on the Masbatenyo language and the

languages spoken in Milagros.

Still, a great number of Masbatenyos refer to their language as Bisaya [bi.sa.’yaq]. They often

thought that Masbatenyo is just a dialect of the Philippines and does not have a ‘language status’.


47

8.0. JOURNAL

Never did I expect that Linguistics 121 would be this interesting. Truly, I thought that it is just

another subject that will bore me to death with its readings but no, it turned out the other way around. I

never had any idea that this course would be this influential in my linguistic career. As a proof, it was

Lingg 121 that encouraged me to continue my dream – or we can say, my ambition – to study my mother

tongue, the Masbatenyo language. It was the subject, and my ever-enthusiastic professor, Ma’am Irma

Peneyra that made me realize that there is much for me to learn and to do here in Linguistics.

Tracing my days back to my first year here in the University of the Philippines when I was very

eager to shift out of the course, it was during one of my few attempts that I met Ma’am P. I always find

the incident as somewhat funny. I went to the Department to ask Ate Vicky if I could enroll in some

Psychology courses and make Psychology as my minor course. Ma’am P was also present then. Ate

Vicky said that it is possible and it would be considered as my cognates. And then she added, “Bakit,

gusto mo magshift no?” “Why, it is because you want to shift out, isn’t it?” Without hesitation, I said ‘yes’

because it was what I really planned to do and almost everyone knew that. There, Ma’am P asked my

reasons and advised me to do what I really wanted to do. It was Ma’am P that supported me, even

though I said that Linguistics bored me (that was when I was only first year).

That was my first meeting with Ma’am P. The next would be at PH 227, in our Lingg 121 class in

which she was our professor. The moment she learned that I was a native speaker of Masbatenyo, she

encouraged me to study the language, to focus on it and as what she always tells us, to do a thesis on it.

That time, I was not really interested on such things. However, it was when she told us that one of our

requirements in 121 is to make a linguistic survey of our town in our respective provinces that I began to

pay attention to what Ma’am P was saying. I then got excited with the idea of going to Masbate, returning

to the place of my childhood.

For five years, after I graduated in elementary, I never got the chance to go back to Masbate. It

was either my father was too busy that he did not have time to travel or it was me that was so busy with

my schooling even during summer. And because I was not comfortable with the idea of going alone, I

just contented myself with listening to the tales and stories that my relatives told whenever they come to

Manila. I really wanted to go back, meet my old friends and classmates, play the same old games I

played, climb the trees, swim in the river, etc. How badly I long to do and experience those things again. I

was filled with nostalgic feeling every time I think of it. However, because of my busy schedule, it was as

if there was no really time. And it was 121 that gave me the opportunity to go back to the place where I

spent most of my childhood.

Despite the fact that Ma’am P had already said that it was unnecessary for me to actually to go

Masbate, I immediately sailed out after the class ended last December. And now I will tell you the

account of my journey back to the place of my origin. It is not only a story of how I conducted my survey,

it is also an account of my return t o my motherland, back to its beautiful fields and dazzling rivers and

blue seas.


48

The Journey

December 20, 2008

The class had finally ended last Wednesday, December 17. After I enjoyed the Lantern Parade

with the company of my friends, I traveled to Parañaque the next day to say good bye to my family. I will

be going back to Masbate with my cousin who was also planning to take a vacation in Masbate.

After I had prepared everything, I met my cousin at my auntie’s house in Philcoa. Then we took a

ride to Cubao where we bought tickets to Pilar, Sorsogon. It was exactly 6:06pm when the bus left the

Cubao terminal and headed south.

The trip was quite long and tiring and starving. We stopped over at Lucena to eat dinner then

went back to road at 8:30pm. The end lasted for almost 14 hours. Inside the bus, I enjoyed reading the

first part of my favorite novel, The Alchemist, which I brought along with me, while listening to my Ipod.

I took a short nap to rest my eyes and then woke up every fifteen minutes to observe the road and

everything alongside with it. My cousin just slept throughout the trip

It was already 7:46pm when we reached the pier of Pilar. We met several people that were also

going to the same destination as we were. Inside the bus, I tried to speak in Masbatenyo (yes, I was

practicing but was unable to do it fluently) as I told them that we were also going to Masbate, specifically

to Milagros and asked them if w e could join them. They were so kind and they assisted us until we were

able to find a ‘lantsa’, a big motor boat that will bring us to our destination.

December 21

We were initially looking for a ‘fast track’ (I really don’t know what it was called, whether ‘fast

craft’ or ‘fast whatever’) so we would be reaching Masbate as early as 12 noon. However, the next trip

would be sailing at 10:30 am. Instead of waiting for another two hours, we decided to take the lantsa. The

trip would last for 4 hours and by 2:00pm, we are already in Masbate. Even though it is somehow slower

than the fast track, we could not afford to wait for another hour to continue the trip. I really wanted to see

Masbate and reached it shore as soon as possible. And besides, we have already traveling for 14 hours

and I was already feeling uncomfortable with the heat.

We left Pilar by 9:30am. At first the trip was smooth, the wind was blowing lightly and the sea

seemed calm. So I climbed the roof of the lantsa, which was huge enough for the passengers to sit, and

did what everyone was doing. I sat on top of the lantsa and immerse myself in the vastness and depth of

the blue sea that surrounded us. I watched in awe every time we passed by an island. It was a different

kind of feeling, serene and divine.

Feeling comfortable despite the heat of the sun, I laid down and read the The Alchemist which I

brought along with me. After several minutes, I grew sleepy and decided to close my eyes for a nap. The

splashes of water sounded like a lullaby and the rocking motion of the lantsa seemed to rock me to sleep.

When I woke up, the lantsa was rocking a little harder. We have reached the part where waves are big


49

and the wind was blowing stronger. I decided to stay for a while but after a couple of minute, I went

down and stayed beside my cousin,

I enjoyed listening to the stories of my fellow passengers. It seemed that however life is hard,

Masbatenyos never failed to amuse themselves and joke about their own problems. We really are very

Filipino in that matter. And I was listening to their jokes, my Masbatenyo lexicon started to pour out from

the repressed and remote area of my mind. And then I recalled most of long-lost memories.

After the exhausting journey, we finally reached the shore and came contact with other people.

My cousin and I decided to go on our own and we said good bye to our companions. Then we took a

jeepney to Milagros.

While inside the jeep, I let myself be amazed and watched the agricultural beauty of Masbate. I

remembered counting up to eleven carabaos which I saw along the road and saw parts of the National

Road that were marked by a carpet of freshly harvested ‘palay’ being dried under the sun. I also

remember watching my grandfather do the same way when I was a child and several times I was

assigned to look after while he was away.

After an hour, we finally reached Milagros. After that, we took a tricycle to drive us to Barangay

Narangasan. While in the road, i came to me how I really missed the place. I observed that the road was

already repaired. As we passed by my old elementary school, my memory of being such a little child

playing with my classmates during recess came back automatically. It was as if a scene was the switch

that would bring all my memory back. I remembered how I woke up early in the morning to enter the

school and swept the school yard and watered the gardens that were assigned to us; how we raced to

copy the writings in the blackboard. Yes, I really missed the place. I hoped to see my former classmates

sooner.

The place has only changed a little. But nevertheless, it was the same place where I spent most of

my childhood, the same place that I left five or six years ago. My cousin Dave saw our tricycle and ran

after us. He did not recognize me first. It was me who changed a lot, from a timid little boy to a Mhawi in

the present. Dave helped us unload our baggage, still amazed of what I was. He led me into my auntie’s

house, Auntie Charit. I did not know what was it but they all said that I was really different from the boy

that I had been in the past.

I took a rest and talked with my auntie, uncle, my cousins, and everyone. Afterward, I visited my

other relatives’ house, talked with them a little and then proceeded to our basketball court. I played with

Dave and his friends which I did not know yet but it seemed that they all know me.

That afternoon, I attended the simbang gabi which gave me the opportunity to meet me former

classmates, friends, teachers, and other relatives. It was a shame that I already forgot some of them but

they all remembered me. I was glad that Dave was beside me and every time I came across of someone

that I was familiar with but did not recall who exactly the person was, he told me who it was.

I also tried my best to speak in Masbatenyo when I took to them.

The day ended perfectly and I was really glad to be back home.


50

The Place Where I Belong

The following days allowed me to recall everything and to adjust. I became fluent again in

Masbatenyo.

December 22

I visited my old school. I observed that new buildings had been built and somehow the place is

more advanced than it was during my days. I recalled my humble days as an elementary pupil and the

things I have done that made me known in this school. This was where I started.

I met more of my friends at the Narangasan Chapel. This was what the people in the province

never forget to do. Everyone was present in the Simbang Gabi.

December 23

The day before the Christmas Eve. In the morning, I asked July and Dave to give m e company

going to Municipal Hall. I planned to request a map of Milagros and a list of the barangay captains. This

was my preliminary action before I did the actual survey which I decided to accomplish after the

Christmas day.

It turned out that my Lola Elsa worked at the Municipal Hall so we had an easy access on the

things we needed. I tried to set an appointment with the mayor but they said that the mayor was on a

vacation and will be back by January 3. We immediately went back after we got the information and the

data I needed for the survey.

That night there was a ‘pabayle’ o ‘barayle’, pasayaw or sayawan in Tagalog, in the plaza.

Together with my cousins, Dave and Maan, we went to plaza to watch. That was it, I only intended to

watch. But they kept on telling me and forcing me to dance. I refused because I did not really dance. Even

when I was a child, I only watched my friends as they went to the center and danced. I enjoyed myself

watching them. However, they would not allow me to just sit and watch. So they grabbed me and pulled

and pushed me to the center. And well, because there was no more way to escape, I danced with them

until 2:00 in the morning.

The pabayle lasted until around 3:00 or 4:00 am. The people danced until the rain forced them to

go home. As for me and my cousins, we went home just before it rained. We talked and told each other

our stories for the past five years that we did not see each other and by 3:00 am we decided to turn off the

lights and go to sleep. One of my younger cousins, Richard who said that he will only read and would

not sleep because he wanted to attend simbang gabi in the morning, had fallen asleep just before the

lights went out. When he woke up, the people from simbang gabi were already returning home.


51

December 24

It was Christmas Eve. Today, everyone was busy preparing for the Christmas day. I busied

myself helping them and running errands for my aunt.

That night, I was invited to the house of Lola Yoy, who was also my old Grade 5 teacher. Lolo

Intoy, her husband, was my Grade 4 teacher then. While I enjoyed myself eating, everyone in the table

was talking about me. They remembered how small I was and they recalled our adventures when I was

in elementary, every time I had a contest. I was glad that they remembered all of those.

When I told them my actual reason of going back, they offered me their assistance. And then they

gave me advices on how to conduct the survey.

After eating, we went home. My cousins had a small exchange gift party. I joined them and put a

guava fruit in the box as my gift. The one who got my gift cried so I replaced with the gift that I had

received. Then we played “Hep Hep Hooray!” and “Bring Me’. I played with them until we all got tired.

The night ended happily and memorable.

December 25

Merry Christmas! And it was also my Lola Taning’s birthday. We went to Capaculan and visited

them and celebrated with her birthday. It was like a mini-fiesta with lechon that was prepared for more

than two hours but only lasted 15 minutes in the tables. It was wonderful meeting with my other cousins.

While the adults were drinking, my cousins played the games we played the night before. I chose

to stay on top of the mango tree which I liked to climb when I was a child and slept on its branches.

However, it rained all of the sudden and I was forced to go down.

The celebration had not ended yet but I and my cousins decided to swim in the river near my

Lolo’s house. So we left and spent the rest of the time enjoying the water. It was already 3:00pm when we

decided to go home.

The next days that followed were the supposed days that I was planning to conduct my survey.

However, it rained continually for three days and I was left planning of what I was going to do in my

survey. It was December 23 that the sun shown up again and I wasted no time to start my task.


52

The Survey

December 28

I woke up early and prepared all the things I needed for the survey. I brought with me the map,

the list of barangay captains, and my notebook. With his motorcycle, Uncle Nonoy drove with Dave and

me up to the north of Milagros. We were planning to start in Matiporon which was the northernmost part

and continue going down. We headed north and climbed the breathtaking zigzag road with the

motorcycle. I listened to Dave as he told me his adventures on traveling along the zigzag road.

I immediately started my survey when we reached Matiporon. My strategy was to look for the

Barangay Hall, met with the barangay captain who would refer us to others who would qualify as

informants. However, most of the barangay captains were already on vacations and so we were left with

the choice to ask random people that we met while conducting the survey.

The survey went out quite well. The people were hospitable and friendly. And it was a good

thing that they already differentiated Masbatenyo from other Bisayan languages. I surveyed thirteen

barangays on this day.

However, there were geographical and meteorological factors that hindered us form conducting

the survey. Some barangays - namely Barangays Jamorawon, Matagbac, Sawmill, San Antonio, and

Magsalangi - were separated form Milagros by water forms. However, the weather that time that I was

conducting the survey was not really good for traveling. So I settled with the idea that I would just make

educated guess so that my data would be complete.

As we continued down south, we were invited to the house of my uncle’s friend. It was fiesta in

Barangay Capaculan and at the same time, it was the baptism of the baby of my uncle’s friend. After

interviewing my informants, I decided to continue the survey the next day. While my uncle was drinking

with his friends, I and Dave decided to explore the place. Then we met some of his friends who were

going to perform that night and we stayed with them, watching them as they practiced.

It was already 10:00pm that we decided to go home. The moment my head touch the pillow, I fell

asleep, tired with all I have done this day.

December 29

Today, we planned to go down south. So we started early and headed to Pamangpangon. It was

an adventure. The road was not yet complete and we drove along the rough road. Uncle Nonoy was not

able to manage the motorcycle across the mountainous path so he made us travel on foot. At first, we

enjoyed it but eventually we have grown tired and thirsty after two or three hours of traveling. We

reached Calumpang first and started immediately looking for the house of the barangay captain.

However, he had just left and only his wife was present. After I had introduced myself, I asked for a glass

of water. I was really thirsty.

When were done with Calumpang, we crossed a river to reach Pamangpangon. God, the place

was so marvelous. All day’s effort has been paid off. It was as if I was in a beach, the place was

surrounded by white sand and clear blue water. But before I immersed myself in that picturesque


53

scenery, I made sure that I was already done with my survey. After interviewing my informants, I ran

toward the water like a child, eager to feel and touch that clear water.

One of my informants offered to take to Milagros because that was where they were also going.

Dave and I agreed, and my uncle, drove home alone. We crossed the Asid Gulf by lantsa and we were

fortunate reach Milagros just before it rained. Then Dave saw his father who was driving a tricycle. Uncle

Ruben gave us a ride. I sat on top of the tricycle, on the roof and felt the rain.

It was a bumpy and chilling ride.

As what I have said, this journal is not only an account of my adventures while I was conducting

the survey. I also wanted to share to you my adventures and my experiences as I traveled back to the

place of my origin. No wonder Ma’am P loves doing Linguistic survey. I hope she can join us in our field

work next year.

This is just the beginning of my mission. I’m planning to really concentrate my studies on

Masbatenyo. This linguistic survey just marks the beginning of my journey that is yet to come.


54

9.0. BIBLIOGRAPHY

Almario, Orlando. 1995. Masbate: Men and Events.

Wolfenden, Elmer. 2001. A Masbatenyo-English Dictionary. Linguistic Society of the Philippines. Manila.

National Statistics Office. 2000. 2000 Census of Population and Housing. Manila.

Online resources:

http://masbate.islandsphilippines.com/

http://www.wikipedia.com/

http://www.nscb.gov.ph/


55

11.0. APPENDIX

1. Bacolod

Erlinda Danao, 44 years old

- refers Masbatenyo as Bisaya


Cebuano – 20 %


Other languagers – less than 1 %

� Bikolano ( brought about by marriage)

� Waray (mostly from Panay Island)

Rosita Canaway, 44 years old


Cebuano - 5 %


Bikolano – 3 %

Waray -1 %

Milba Albarando, 57 years old

- speaks Cebuano


Cebuano – 15 %


Bikolano – 10 %

Waray – 5 %

SUMMARY:

MASBATENYO – 67%

CEBUANO – 13 %

HILIGAYNON (ILONGGO) -13 %

BIKOLANO – 5 %

WARAY – 2 %

2. Bangad

Charles Zurbito, 42 years old


Cebuano – 10 %



Paquito Young, 70 years old


Cebuano – 5 %



Marlon Young, 55 years old

Masbatenyo – 80 %

Cebuano – 10 %



SUMMARY:

MASBATENYO – MORE THAN 90 %

CEBUANO – 5 %

HILIGAYNON (ILONGGO) – 5 %

OTHER LANGUAGES – LESS THAN 1 %

� BIKOLANO, WARAY, TAGALOG

3. Bara

Anacleto Ibañez, 61 years old

SUMMARY:


CEBUANO – 5 %


4. Bonbon

Jojit Duaman, 31 years old

- native of Bonbon

SUMMARY:

MASBATENYO – 100 %

5. Calasuche

Lilia Lazaro, 62 %

- owns a carinderia near the port of Calasuche

Masbatenyo – 90 %

Cebuano – 5 %



Mr. and Mrs. Leonardo Candelario, 44 years old

- owns a carinderia near the port of Calasuche


Other languages:

� Cebuano, Bikolano and Hiligaynon (Ilonggo) are

spoken by those who come to Calasuche for trade

SUMMARY:


56


CEBUANO – 5 %


BIKOLANO – LESS THAN 1 %

6. Calumpang

Narciso Requiama, 29 years old

- teacher in-charge, Taisan Elementary School


Cebuano - 10%


Nila Rico, 45 years old


Cebuano - 10%


Apolinario Pagayunan


Cebuano - 10%


SUMMARY:


CEBUANO - 10%


7. Capaculan

Antonio de Jesus, 58 years old


Cebuano - 25%


Other languages:

� Bikolano

Cynthia Amante, 40 years old

- teacher


Cebuano – 20 %


Bikolano -5 %

Windolo Rosero, 72 years old


Cebuano - 15%


Bikolano – les than 5 %

SUMMARY:

MASBATENYO – MORE OR LESS 60 %

CEBUANO - 25%



8. Cayabon

Januario Letada, 25 years old

- son of the barangay captain

Masbatenyo – 95 %

Cebuano – 5 %

Hiligaynon (Ilonggo) - 5 %

Solomon Cabug, 63 years old

Masbatenyo – 90 %

Cebuano – 5 – 10 %

Nelia Estares, 28 years old

- teacher of Masbate School of Fisheries

Masbatenyo – 92 %

Cebuano – 5 %


SUMMARY:

MASBATENYO – 92 %

CEBUANO – 6 %


9. Guinluthangan

Mark Candelario, 22 years old

- boatman and trader

Summary:


Cebuano – 50 %

10. Jamorawon*

SUMMARY:



57

CEBUANO – 5 %


11. Magsalangi*

SUMMARY:

MASBATENYO – LESS THAN 50 %

CEBUANO – 25 %

HILIGAYNON (ILONGGO) – MORE THAN 30 %

WARAY – LESS THAN 1 %

12. Matagbac*

SUMMARY:


CEBUANO – 25 %



13. Matanglad

Jojit Duaman, 31 years old

- high school teacher

SUMMARY:

MASBATENYO – 100 %

14. Matiporon

Raymunda Gonzales, 70 years old

- native of upper Matiporon


Roger Digos, 50 years old

- Provincial Head Coordinator, Department of

Agriculture

- native of Lapu-lapu City, Cebu but has been in

Matiporon for more than 30 yesrs

- speaks both Masbatenyo and Cebuano

Masbatenyo – 80 %

Cebuano – 9 %

Binikol/Bikolano – 5 %

Hiligaynon (Ilonggo)– 6 %

Mario Alba, 38 years old

- barangay captain of Matiporon

Masbatenyo – 90 %

Cebuano – 5 %


Bikolano – 2 %

Waray – 1 %

SUMMARY:

MASBATENYO – 90 %

CEBUANO - 4 %

BIKOLANO – 2 %



15. Moises R. Espinosa

Avelina Fernandez dela Cruz, 50 years old

- Kagawad of Brgy. M.R. Espinosa

Masbatenyo –80 %

Cebuano – 18 %

Other languages – 2%

� Bikolano and Hiligaynon (Ilonggo)

– consist of 2-4 families (migrants)

Ester Rapsing, 61 years old

- native of M.R. Espinosa

- teacher of M.R. Espinosa Elementary School

Masbatenyo – 90 %

Cebuano – 9 %

Other languages – 1%

� Bikolano, Hiligaynon (Ilonggo) and Tagalog

Evelen Canaway, 32 years old

- wife of the barangay captain

Masbatenyo – 94 %

Cebuano – 5 % (less than 2000 families)


- Bikolano, Hiligaynon (Ilonggo) and Tagalog

SUMMARY:

MASBATENYO – 90 %

CEBUANO – 9 %

OTHER LANGUAGES – 1 %

- BIKOLANO, HILIGAYNON (ILONGGO) AND

TAGALOG

16. Narangasan

Charito Blancaver, 50 years old

- Elementary school teacher


58

Masbatenyo – 95 %

Cebuano – 3 %


Other languages:


Vilma Fontelar, 64 years old

- Principal, Narangasan Elementary School

Masbatenyo – 95 %

Cebuano – 3 %


Other languages:


Luwen Rosero, 45 years old

- High school teacher


Cebuano – 5 %


Other languages:


Summary:

MASBATENYO – 90 %

CEBUANO – 5 %



� BIKOLANO, TAGALOG, WARAY

17. Pamangpangon

Federico Tadipa, 52 years old

- speaks Hiligaynon/Ilonggo


Cebuano - 25%


Jose Paglinawan, 77 years old


Cebuano – 25 %


Vicky Villapando


Cebuano - 10%


SUMMARY:


CEBUANO - 20%


18. Paraiso

Bobby Dalanon, 40 years old

- barangay captain


Cebuano – 5 %




Romeo Rubio, 65 years old

Masbatenyo – 90 %

Cebuano – 5 %




Leo Dalanon, 60 years old


Cebuano – 5 %




SUMMARY:


CEBUANO – 5 %



� BIKOLANO, TAGALOG

19. Poblacion East

Mildred Lasala, 43 years old


Cebuano (Boholano) – 4 %


Bikolano – 2 %

Dioleta Briosa, 55 years old




Bikolano – 2 %

Lucile de Jesus, 38 years old

- wife of the barangay captain



59

Cebuano– 5 %


SUMMARY:


CEBUANO – 5 %



20. Poblacion West

Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Saldibar, 50 years old

Masbatenyo – 90 %



Waray – less than 1 % (migrants from Capiz)

Lucia Cornal, 32 years old

- Barangay Secretary

Masbatenyo – 50 %

Cebuano – 30 %


Lolita de Jesus, 69 years old

Masbatenyo – 90 %

Cebuano – 5 %


Erlinda Abinir, 64 years old

Masbatenyo – 90 %


SUMMARY:

MASBATENYO – 77 %

CEBUANO – 13 %


OTHER LANGUAGES – 1 %

� WARAY AND BOHOLANO

21. San Antonio*

SUMMARY:


CEBUANO – 40 %


22. San Carlos*

Ireneo Tabuada, 70 years old

- speaks Cebuano

SUMMARY OF DATA:


CEBUANO – 30 %


23. Sawmill*

SUMMARY:


CEBUANO – 15 %


24. Tagbon

Floreña Elles, 75 years old

Masbatenyo – 90 %

Cebuano – 5 %


Maria Ever Guiguinto, 36 years old

Masbatenyo – 90 %

Cebuano – 5 %


Summary:

MASBATENYO – 90 %

CEBUANO – 5 %


25. Tawad

Pacita Cortes, 73 years old

- native of Mapili (Tawad) an area between Tawad

and Matiporon


Cebuano – 5 %

Bikolano – 3 %


Carmen Malinao, 56 years old

- teacher of Tawad Elementary School


Cebuano – 15 %


Leonila Ostia, 45 years old


60

- teacher


Cebuano – less than 25 %


� Bikolano and Hiligaynon (Ilonggo) - spoken by

migrants from the neighbor provinces

SUMMARY:

MASBATENYO – 80 %

CEBUANO - 15 %

HILIGAYNON (ILONGGO) (ILONGGO) – 5 %


� BIKOLANO AND HILIGAYNON (ILONGGO) -

SPOKEN BY MIGRANTS FROM THE

NEIGHBOR PROVINCES

26. Tigbao

Molex Broces, 28 years old

Anna Gallo, 69 years old

Clarita Manola, 53 years old

SUMMARY OF DATA:


CEBUANO – 25 %



27. Tinaclipan

Regino Ramaya, 33 years old

- boatman

Masbatenyo – 90 %z

Cebuano - 5 %

Hiligaynon (Ilonggo) - 5 %

Manilyn Briol, 38 years old

Masbatenyo – 90 %

Cebuano - 5 %



� Kinaray-a

Marites Rosauro, 36 years old

Masbatenyo – 90 %

Cebuano - 5 %



� Kinaray-a

SUMMARY:

MASBATENYO – 90 %

CEBUANO – 5 %



� KINARAY-A

Linguistic Survey of Milagros, Masbate-edited version

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