Jejenese in Computer-Mediated Communication: Its Impact on Filipino Millennials' Vocabulary and Communication Skills

Abstract. The rapid expansion of social media and computer-mediated communication has given rise to new linguistic forms that influence language use among digital users. This study examined the phenomenon of Jejenese, a stylized form of online language characterized by unconventional spelling, mixed capitalization, and phonetic alterations commonly used by Filipino millennials in social media interactions. The research aimed to identify the most frequently used Jejenese expressions and determine their perceived effects on vocabulary development and communication competence. Using a descriptive research design, the study collected linguistic data from thirty selected Facebook users representing millennial social media participants. Data were gathered through documentation of online conversations and through interview responses to capture participants’ perspectives on their language practices. Frequency counts and descriptive analysis were employed to identify patterns of usage and communicative implications. Findings revealed that Jejenese expressions, particularly stylized laughter forms, abbreviated gratitude expressions, and modified agreement markers, are widely used in informal online communication. The results indicate that while Jejenese promotes creativity, brevity, and social identity among peer groups, excessive reliance on such forms may contribute to misunderstandings, weakened spelling conventions, and reduced sensitivity to formal language structures in academic and professional communication. The study highlights the evolving nature of digital language and underscores the importance of developing contextual language awareness among social media users. This research contributes to United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education) by promoting responsible language use and strengthening communication competence in digitally mediated learning environments.Keywords: Jejenese, Computer-Mediated Communication, Social Media Language, Vocabulary Development, Filipino Millennials, Digital Linguistics