Intergenerational Transmission of Hanunuo Heritage Language

Abstract

This case study explored the reasons, approaches, and challenges encountered in the intergenerational transmission of the Hanunuo heritage language. The study was conducted from April to June 2019 at Emok and Canabang, Magsaysay, Occidental Mindoro, Philippines. A total of 17 Hanunuo Mangyan selected through purposive sampling participated in the study. It was found that cultural heritage, strong adherence to language, strong identification with the group, residence in the speech community, and ease of communication were the reasons for heritage language maintenance. The oral approach is used in the intergenerational transmission of the Hanunuo heritage language. The challenges encountered include no proper documentation, non-Hanunuo teacher, school curriculum, technology, inter-marriages, and orthography is not taught by elders. Nevertheless, the Hanunuo Mangyan maintains their heritage language to facilitate communication. They have high orality in their language, and the challenges encountered were attributed to personal and societal factors.