Acceptability of Philippine English in Academic Research Communication: Challenging ‘Non-Native Speakerism’ In Published Research

Background: Several extensively documented studies have been conducted on Philippine English (PhE) as a variety of World Englishes; however, its acceptability in international publishing contexts or formal academic writing remains underexplored. Objective: This study determines the presence and acceptability of Philippine English features in internationally published, peer-reviewed research articles authored by Filipino scholars. Methodology: This study employed a qualitative, interpretative research design. The data collection utilised a focused content analysis approach, targeting a purposive sample of eight research articles authored by Filipino scholars. The selection criteria mandated that all articles be indexed in either the Scopus or Web of Science (WoS) databases, ensuring high scholarly rigour. The analysis involved systematic coding and thematic extraction to identify recurring patterns, concepts, and arguments within the selected publications. Results: The systematic content analysis of research articles reveals three primary characteristics of Philippine English (PhE): (1) Localized vocabulary, where PhE exhibits a distinct lexicon that preserves cultural and social genuineness while simultaneously mediating between local and worldwide identities; (2) Lexical innovations and grammatical deviations, where the language demonstrates significant lexical innovation through the integration of native Filipino terms and systematic deviations from standard grammatical norms; and (3) distinct educational register, where PhE maintains a unique academic tone in educational settings, a feature directly attributable to the enduring historical and educational impacts on the Philippine linguistic landscape. Conclusion: The evidence confirms the broad acceptance of Philippine English (PhE) within international scholarly discourse, thereby validating its distinctiveness and legitimacy among foreign scholars and peer reviewers. This empirical acceptance critically intensifies the claim for the endonormative stabilisation of Philippine English as a recognised variety of World Englishes. Unique contribution: This study made a pioneering contribution by providing actual presence and editorial acceptance of Philippine English in the peer-reviewed research articles encompassing an external acceptability in global scholarly discourse. Moreover, this study marks a significant step in dismantling the concepts of native speakerism and non-native speakerism, as well as legitimising and intensifying World Englishes. Key Recommendation: The integration of World Englishes, specifically Philippine English, must be fully incorporated in both local and international academic writing instruction to reflect and intensify the pluricentrism of the English language and promote legitimate academic registers across the global academic settings.