Pagpamulad (Fish Drying): Lexicon Used By Cadiznon Fish Dryers During Fish Drying

Abstract

This study delves into the specialized lexicon utilized by Cadiznon fish dryers during fish drying. Drawing upon the discipline of ethnolinguistics—a nexus of ethnography and linguistics—the study adopts a multi-faceted approach for data acquisition. Methods encompassed structured interviews guided by eight pertinent questions, field notes, and the capture of visual data through photography and videography. In choosing participants, the study employed criteria-based purposive sampling and was guided by the principle of saturation. The findings uncover that the Cadiznon fish dryers possess an intricate lexicon, exclusive to the realm of fish drying. These terminologies are not mere words; they are imbued with cultural nuances and traditional resonances, signifying their instrumental role in daily operations and their pivotal function as communicative devices. These terms are more than just words; they reflect the community’s culture, traditions, and communication needs. Such terminologies demonstrate the community’s dedication to preserving their linguistic heritage over generations, emphasizing the broader importance of language preservation. Considering these findings, it’s crucial to document these terms to support Mother Tongue-Based Multilingual Education (MTB-MLE). Turning this vocabulary into educational resources, such as booklets, can aspire to invigorate students’ engagement, fostering both linguistic retention and real-world application. Future research should explore terminology in other areas of the fish industry and investigate potential gender roles in fish drying. Collaborations with local government and educational authorities are recommended to strengthen language preservation and enhance MTB-MLE.