20 November | Thursday | 10:00 AM

CSSP Health & Wellness Center

Mary Ann G. Bacolod, PhD

Professor

UP Department of Linguistics

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This study presents a linguistic analysis of frequently used modals in Filipino online news reports that convey information about meteorological, hydrological, and biological disasters. It aims to enhance our understanding of how these modals can play a crucial role in effective communication during disasters. The data were collected from online newspaper articles that relay information on flooding/typhoons, volcanic eruptions, and reports related to COVID-19.

The research explores three primary objectives: (1) to investigate the linguistic nature, functions, and characteristics of these modals, along with their roles in conveying disasterrelated communication, (2) to identify the types of modals used and how their meanings/usage differ across various disaster contexts, and (3) to analyze what vital information is communicated by these modals in the context of disaster. Furthermore, the study categorizes the meanings these modals convey in disaster situations by employing the concept of conversational background, analyzing their impact in communicating disaster-related risks.

The analysis identifies two main categories of frequently used modals: modals of necessity (such as dapat and kailangan) and modals of probability (including maaari, posible, and pwede). The findings indicate that understanding these modals significantly helps to communicate the necessary, obligatory, and the uncertainty in disaster risk contexts. A thorough comprehension of their functions and roles in conveying critical information yields valuable insights into disaster risk perception and supports effective decisionmaking. By uncovering the nuanced meanings inherent in these modals within disaster contexts, this research highlights the pivotal role of language in shaping public perception and action, underscoring the importance of modals in risk communication and disaster preparedness.

This event is free and open to the public.