Home⇛Journal of Interdisciplinary Perspectives⇛vol. 4 no. 5 (2026)

The Impact of Foreign Language Proficiency on Career Development for Spanish-English Bilinguals in Cebu

Niera Rel Juntilla Surio | Ian Jarabelo

Discipline: Linguistics

 

Abstract:

This study explores the role of foreign language proficiency, specifically Spanish-English bilingualism, in shaping career perceptions among bilinguals in Cebu. Despite the growing demand for bilingual professionals in industries such as Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) and finance, the correlation between bilingualism and career advancement remains underexplored. The research aims to examine the challenges faced by Spanish-English bilinguals in utilizing their language skills effectively and the impact on their career development. A qualitative research approach was used, involving in-depth interviews with 10 Spanish-English bilinguals working in various sectors in Cebu, including BPO and customer service. The findings reveal that while bilingual professionals possess strong foundational skills, they face challenges, including limited access to mentorship, recognition disparities, and communication barriers in professional settings. Despite these obstacles, bilingualism offers significant advantages, including expanded career opportunities, higher salaries, and enhanced professional development. The study highlights that targeted support programs, mentorship, and better recognition are essential to fully harness the potential of bilingual employees. This research contributes to understanding the career dynamics of bilingual professionals, emphasizing the need for inclusive strategies to bridge the gap between language proficiency and workplace success.



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