Home⇛Isabela State University Linker: Journal of Education, Social Sciences and Allied Health⇛vol. 2 no. 1 (2025)

IbanagLingo: An Online Ibanag–English Dictionary Platform for the Preservation and Promotion of the Ibanag Language

Daryll A. Paguirigan | Rosemary L. Buraga

Discipline: Linguistics

 

Abstract:

Ibanag is a prominent language spoken in the northern part of Isabela and various areas of Cagayan. However, it is currently classified as endangered due to the growing dominance of Tagalog and English in homes, schools, and media. The absence of technological tools, such as mobile applications or software, further accelerates its decline. In response to this linguistic threat, the IbanagLingo, as a web-based application, was developed to aid in the preservation and revitalization of the Ibanag language. The platform functions as a digital Ibanag-English dictionary, offering a comprehensive word database, intuitive search capabilities, audio pronunciation guides, mobile browser compatibility, as well as user-friendly features like bookmarks and search history. It serves as a vital digital repository, accessible anytime and anywhere, helping bridge communication gaps between native and non-native speakers. The project adopted a descriptive research methodology, involving interviews with 50 native speakers and five Ibanag language experts, along with user surveys to assess the system’s performance. The application was evaluated using the ISO/IEC 25010:2011 standards, focusing on functional suitability and usability. Field testing in Cabagan, Isabela ensured cultural and linguistic relevance. Results revealed high user satisfaction, particularly in terms of functionality and usability, affirming the system’s effectiveness, efficiency, and potential as a tool for preserving and promoting the Ibanag language.



References:

  1. Bosch, S. E., & Griesel, M. (2020). Exploring the documentation and preservation of African Indigenous Knowledge in a digital lexical database. Lexikos, 30(1), 1–18. https://doi.org/10.5788/30-1-1603
  2. Buraga, R. L. (2019). A web-based multilingual language translation. International Journal of Recent Technology and Engineering, 8(1S4), 162–165.
  3. Buraga, R. L. (2024). Bridging cultures: Ibanag-Tagalog-English translation guide. National Library of the Philippines. (Certificate No. 2024-05648-A)
  4. Little, S. (2019). Is there an app for that? Exploring games and apps among heritage language families. Journal of Multilingual and Multicultural Development, 40(3), 218–229. https://doi.org/10.1080/01434632.2018.1502776
  5. Palviainen, Å. (2020). Future prospects and visions for family language policy research. In A. Schwartz & P. L. T. J. T. J. S. T. (Eds.), Handbook of home language maintenance and development (pp. 236–254). De Gruyter. https://doi.org/10.1515/9781501510175-012
  6. Stahlberg, S. (2021). Internet-based resources and opportunities for minority and endangered languages. Tehlikedeki Diller Dergisi, 11(19), 418–438. https://dergipark.org.tr/en/pub/tdd/issue/64230/957812
  7. Villa, D. J. (2002). Integrating technology into minority language preservation and teaching efforts: An inside job. Language Learning & Technology, 6(2), 92–101. https://scholarspace.manoa.hawaii.edu/bitstreams/6a565cdc-3768-46f5-a5f3-f41d42590816/download
  8. Vincencio, C. D. (2022). Parents with different mother-tongue and its effect on their children's language identity. Global Journal of English Language Teaching, 2(2), 20–28. https://doi.org/10.20448/gjelt.v2i2.4343
  9. Wamalwa, E. W., & Oluoch, S. B. J. (2013). Language endangerment and language maintenance: Can endangered indigenous languages of Kenya be electronically preserved? International Journal of Humanities and Social Science, 3(7), 258–265.

Tools


Copyright © 2025  KITE Digital Educational Solutions |  Exclusively distributed by CE-Logic