Exploring Sociolectal Identity Through Speech Rhythm in Philippine English

This study explores rhythm metrics as a sociolinguistic marker in Philippine English (PhE), addressing gaps in understanding rhythmic variation in Southeast Asian Englishes. It aims to uncover how rhythmic patterns reflect sociolectal identities within a multilingual context. Using acoustic data from 30 participants in Manila, rhythm metrics (%V, ΔV, ΔC, nPVI, and rPVI) were analyzed to examine rhythmic tendencies. The findings reveal distinct patterns: PhE acrolect aligns with stress-timed rhythms of general American English, PhE basilect reflects syllable-timed features similar to Spanish, and PhE mesolect occupies a hybrid position blending elements of both. By emphasizing rhythm as a key identifier of sociolectal variation, this study advances the understanding of linguistic diversity in World Englishes and provides a novel framework for exploring identity in multilingual settings.