Illocutionary Speech Acts in Editorial Discourse: A Pragmatic Analysis of Language Dissemination

This study investigated the illocutionary speech acts present in the editorial "Everyday Heroes," published in the Philippine Daily Inquirer on August 30, 2021. The editorial served as a tribute to unsung heroes who demonstrated extraordinary acts of kindness and bravery during the COVID-19 pandemic. The research categorized these speech acts into assertive, directive, commissive, expressive, and declarative categories. Assertive speech acts affirmed the heroic actions of individuals, emphasizing their contributions to society. Directive speech acts encouraged readers to recognize and appreciate the efforts of these everyday heroes. Commissive speech acts committed to celebrating and honoring these individuals who have made significant impacts during the pandemic. Expressive speech acts expressed gratitude and admiration towards the featured heroes, while declarative speech acts underscored the importance of recognizing and supporting individuals who embody acts of kindness and bravery. The study also examined the dissemination process of editorials to readers, evaluating how these illocutionary points are effectively conveyed. The editorial was disseminated through both digital platforms and traditional printed formats, ensuring broad accessibility and impact. Digital platforms such as websites, online news portals, and social media facilitate instant global access, while printed formats like newspapers and magazines cater to readers who prefer tangible mediums. This dual approach contributed to the editorial's reach and influence, shaping public opinion and discourse on social issues. This research enhanced understanding of how illocutionary speech acts function within editorial discourse and the role of dissemination in shaping public perception and engagement