World Education Connect Multidisciplinary e-Publication, Vol. VI, Issue V (May 2026), pp.14-22
Authors
John Denver B. Beleya, Mary Grace Millan, Mary Nathalia P. Pableo, Dr. Marvin F. Pableo, Dr. Rodolfo A. Golbin Jr., Dr. Grace B. Gimena
Cebu Technological University—Moalboal Campus
Abstract
Cebuano queer literature is a wonderful medium through which bayot identities get to showcase their lively world brimming with pride and humor. This qualitative research was based on R. Joseph Dazo's stories, which, apart from the analysis of their lexical-semantic features, also reflected the bayot's experiences. We utilized semantic analysis and thematic analysis to dig into the experiences, with the contextual support coming from the six bayot real-life instances. Results show that Dazo's choice of words communicates several layers of meaning through metaphors, use of idiomatic expressions, and affective expressions, which mostly indicate openness, wit, and a loving character in connection to heteronormative conventions. Experiences of bayots in romantic relationships indicate that bayot identities primarily rely on long-term and financially risky relationships to ensure reciprocation. On the other hand, the way society receives them is influenced by religiosity, gender roles, and cultural norms, factors that, in turn, dictate how bayots handle their love lives and self-expression. The point is that language and experience become a sort of tool, or weapon, that supports our survival, helps us be strong, and even allows us to gain power. To sum up, literature can preserve the voices of Bayot and share their stories, which break social norms, eventually contributing to the formation of a distinct cultural identity.
Keywords: Cebuano literature, lexical-semantic analysis, bayot experiences, Cebuano sociocultural context
