ILIGAN NATIONAL WRITERS' WORKSHOP 2011

The Mindanao Creative Writers Group, Inc., and the Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology’s Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension (OVCRE) are accepting applications from writers to the 18th Iligan National Writers Workshop (INWW) to be held on May 23-27, 2011 in Iligan City.

Panelists this year are Erlinda Kintanar Alburo, Leoncio P. Deriada, Merlie M. Alunan, German V. Gervacio, Steven Patrick C. Fernandez, Antonio R. Enriquez, Ralph Semino Galan, Christine Godinez-Ortega and this year’s keynote speaker, Pearlsha B. Abubakar, 9th INWW Fellow (2002).

Fifteen (15) slots, five each from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao and one (1) slot each for the Manuel T. Buenafe Writing Fellowship (MTBWF) and the Ricardo Jorge S. Caluen Bursary for Creative Writing or a total of 17 slots are available for writing fellowships to the 18th INWW.

Applicants are required to submit five poems, or, one short story, excerpt of a novel, or, a one-act play in Filipino, English or in Sebuano, Hiligaynon, Kinaray-a, Waray, Chabacano (with English or Filipino translations) along with the applicant’s biodata, two 2X2 photos and a certification that his/her work is original. For short stories, excerpts of novels or plays, please submit a hard copy and a CD with the manuscripts encoded in MS Word. Those submitting excerpts of novels or works on progress — please provide a one page summary of the novel. Unpublished works are preferred and applicants who have attended regional workshops are given priority.

Writing fellows will be given free board and lodging and a travel allowance. Applications must be postmarked on or before March 25, 2011. No applications or manuscripts will be accepted if sent by fax or e-mail. Applicants are also advised to keep copies of their manuscripts since these will not be returned. Announcements of this year’s writing fellows are released during the third week of April 2011.

Applicants to this year’s workshop may download application and other forms at http://www.msuiit.edu.ph/research-extension/downloads.php.

Send all applications to the 18th INWW Director c/o OVCRE, MSU-IIT, Iligan City. For more information call Pat Cruz, Leda Gonzales or Ofelia Taneo at telefax (063) 2232343; or e-mail: inww_ovcremsuiit@yahoo.com

UST Holds 3rd National Criticism Workshop

UST Holds 3rd National Criticism Workshop

The University of Santo Tomas is now accepting applications to the 2011 UST J. Elizalde Navarro National Workshop in Criticism on the Arts and Humanities to be held in Baguio City on the last week of May 29 to June 4, 2011.

The workshop is endowed and organized by the Varsitarian, the 83-year-old official student publication of UST. It is held in honor of the late Nationalist Artist for the Visual Arts and art critic J. Elizalde Navarro, who was art editor and critic-poet of the Varsitarian during his student days, and in connection with the Quadricentennial Celebration of UST which was established in 1611.

Fellowships will be given to 12 promising young critics who would like to enhance their analytical, research and writing skills.

To be considered for the fellowship, applicants should submit a scholarly, properly documented critical essay (10-15 pages, double-spaced, 12-point font) on the following art forms (painting, sculpture, architecture, dance, drama, music, film or photography) on or before April 30, 2011.

Manuscripts should be submitted in hard copy and on CD, preferably in MS Word, together with an updated resumé, a recommendation letter from an academic mentor or an art critic, a certification that the works are original, and two 2X2 ID pictures.

Address all applications to Assoc. Prof. Ferdinand M. Lopez and Asst. Prof. Ralph Semino Galán, Workshop Conveners, Faculty of Arts and Letters, University of Santo Tomas, España Street, Sampaloc , Manila. E-mail ralphseminogalan@gmail.com for further inquiries.

An Invitation to Literature Teachers and Professors in the Visayas

An Invitation to Literature Teachers and Professors in the Visayas

Dear Sir/Madam:

Warm greetings from the Philippine PEN Board of Directors!

The Philippine Center of International PEN (Poets, Playwrights, Essayists, Novelists) is conducting a series of teaching literature workshops in selected regions of the Philippines this year. Called “For Love of the Word: Workshops on Teaching Philippine Literature in High School and College,” this project is geared toward retooling and upgrading the skills of literature teachers in both secondary and tertiary levels. This project is supported by PEN International in UK, and the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA). The first workshop was successfully held last March 25 in Far Eastern University-Manila.

The second of the series, a lecture-workshop on teaching poetry and fiction in English, Filipino and regional languages, will be held on May 6, from 8:30am to 4:00pm, at the University of San Agustin’s Conference Room, Blanco Hall, General Luna St., Iloilo City. PEN authors and Metrobank Outstanding Teacher Awardees Dr. Marjorie Evasco and Dr. Leoncio Deriada will serve as the facilitators.

In this regard, may we invite your faculty members to participate in this workshop? There is no registration fee. A workshop kit and a certificate of attendance will be given to each participant.

At this point, PEN is making arrangements with possible patrons to sponsor the lunch for the participants. We have not finalized anything though. However, may we assure you that there are decent and affordable eateries located within and outside the campus.

For pre-registration, please submit the name/s of your participant/s and your school to PEN. You may email PEN at philippinepen@yahoo.com, or please text +639175287491.

Thank you for your kind attention. We look forward to your participation.


Very truly yours,


Joselito B. Zulueta
National Secretary
Philippine Center of International PEN
c/o Solidaridad Bookstore
531 Padre Faura St., Ermita, Manila, Philippines
Tel. (632) 5230870; Telefax (632) 5255038
Email: philippinepen@yahoo.com
Website: http://philippinepen.co.cc/

2010 Philippine PEN Conference

2010 Philippine PEN Conference
December 4-5, 2010
Montebello Villa Hotel, Cebu City, Philippines

Solidarity in Literature without Borders
(Philippines, Africa, Middle East, Asia/Pacific, Europe, America)

Program

FIRST DAY OF CONFERENCE

Opening Ceremonies
National Anthem
Reading of the PEN International Charter: Susie Tan
Opening Remarks: Bienvenido Lumbera, Chairman, Philippine PEN
Introduction of Keynote Speaker: D. M. Reyes
Keynote Address: Simeon Dumdum Jr.

Coffee Break

First Literary Session
Panel on Writing and Writers in the Visayas
Chair: Vicente Garcia Groyon
Panelists: Erma Cuizon, Isidoro Cruz, John Barrios

Lunch

Second Literary Session
Panel on Writing and Writers in Mindanao
Chair: Jaime An Lim
Panelists: Anthony Tan, Steven Fernandez, Servando Halili Jr., Telesforo “Jun” Sungkit, Jr.

Coffee Break

Third Literary Session
Panel on Writing and Writers in Luzon
Chair: Hermie Beltran
Panelists: Santiago Villafania, Priscilla Macansantos, Carlos Arejola, Sherma Benosa


Emcees/Convenors of the Day: Elmer Ordoñez, Susan Lara

Solidarity Evening Dinner with cultural program
Masters of Ceremonies: Jose Wendell Capili, Nick Pichay

SECOND DAY OF CONFERENCE

Fourth Literary Session
Panel on Writing and Writers in Asia/Pacific and the Middle East
Chair: Ronald Baytan
Panelists: Nori Nakagami (Japan), Nguyen Bao Chan (Vietnam), Alvin Pang (Singapore), Robin Lim (Indonesia), a writer from Iran

Coffee Break

Fifth Literary Session
Panel on Writing and Writers in North and Latin Americas
Chair: Marjorie Evasco
Panelists: Alice Sun-Cua, Menchu Sarmiento, Lina Zeron (Mexico), Elynia Ruth Mabanglo (USA), Marianne Villanueva (USA)


Lunch

Introduction of the Speaker: Karina Bolasco
The Jose Rizal Lecture
Resil Mojares


Sixth Literary Session
Panel on Writing and Writers in Africa and Europe
Chair: Jose Victor Torres
Panelists: Edgar Maranan, Paolo Manalo, Ignacio Martínez de Pisón (Spain),
a writer from Africa (tentatively, Rashidah Ismaili AbuBakr or Joseph Ushie)

Closing Session
Resolutions


Emcees/Convenors of the Day: Charlson Ong, Shirley Lua


Overall Convenors
Bienvenido Lumbera, Joselito Zulueta


On-site Secretariat
Cesar Quinagan, Jun Cruz Reyes, Eva Nelmida

Call for Applications: Writer/Storyteller-in-Residence

A professional writer and/or storyteller is sought for the position of Writer/ Storyteller-in-Residence at the Centre for Creative Writing and Oral Culture at the University of Manitoba. This four-month position, from approximately September 1 to December 16, 2011, will require the successful candidate to spend approximately 16 hours per week providing mentorship and practical artistic advice to developing writers and storytellers at the University of Manitoba, to give a limited number of readings and/or performances on campus, and to lead an informal non-credit workshop. The remaining time is to be devoted to the writer or storyteller’s own artistic projects. The successful candidate will receive a salary of $20,000.00 CAD, accommodation and return transportation to Winnipeg.

The Centre for Creative Writing and Oral Culture is an interdisciplinary centre with a mandate to promote the creation and the study of the verbal arts, both oral and written. Located at the University of Manitoba in the city of Winnipeg, the Centre sponsors readings, lectures, master classes and creative community projects that explore the connections between oral and written culture. Winnipeg is renowned for its vibrant arts community and its multicultural citizenry, including the largest urban population of Aboriginal people in North America. The Centre builds upon these local cultural strengths as a basis for its creative and critical work. To learn more about the Centre, visit http://umanitoba.ca/centres/ccwoc/

Applicants should provide a covering letter summarizing their qualifications for the position and describing the artistic work they would undertake during the residency. Applications must also include a CV or résumé of career achievements (publications, performances, awards, residencies), a writing sample of no more than 20 pages (doublespaced and typed in a standard 12-point font) and two letters of reference discussing the applicant’s skills as an artist and a mentor.

Candidates of all nationalities are encouraged to apply; however, full proficiency in English is required, and publications or performance credits in English would be an asset. The Centre for Creative Writing and Oral Culture is committed to principles of employment equity. The application deadline is November 22, 2010.

Electronic submissions of application materials are accepted at the Centre’s email address, but attachments must be in Microsoft Word, PDF, RTF or DocX only. Please direct inquiries and electronic application materials to ccwoc@cc.umanitoba.ca.

Applicants may also submit hardcopy applications to:

Dr. Warren Cariou, Director
Centre for Creative Writing and Oral Culture,
University of Manitoba
391 University College, 220 Dysart Road
Winnipeg, Manitoba R3T 2M8 CANADA

Books and other materials sent in support of applications will not be returned.

2010 SEA Write Award

The SEA Write 2010 award will take place at the Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok on November 5, with HRH Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn presiding at the awards dinner and presentation ceremony.

As usual, a prominent writer has been invited as the keynote speaker. Taking his place at the podium this year will be Scottish writer Willam Dalrymple, a multiple-award winning historian and travel writer, as well as a distinguished broadcaster, critic, art historian, foreign correspondent and co-director of Asia's largest literary festival.

A Cambridge history graduate, Dalrymple has lived in Delhi on and off for the last 25 years. His interests include India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, the Middle East, Mughal rule, the Muslim world, Hinduism, Buddhism, the Jains and early Eastern Christianity. All of his six books have won major literary prizes, as have his radio and television documentaries. His first three were travel books based on his journeys in the Middle East, India and Central Asia.

More recently, Dalrymple has published a book of essays about South Asia, and two award winning histories of the interaction between the British and the Mughals between the 18th and mid-19th centuries.

He is a regular contributor to "The New York Review of Books", The Guardian, The New Statesman, The New Yorker and Time magazine.

His latest book, Nine Lives: In Search of the Sacred in Modern India, was published by Bloomsbury, and went to the No. 1 slot in the Indian non-fiction section best-seller list.

He is now beginning work on a history of the First Afghan War (1839 to 1842), and curating a major show of the late Mughal and Company School painting of Delhi for the Asia Society in New York, set to open in January 2012.

The winners of the 2010 SEA Write award who will be feted at the awards dinner are:

- WIJAYA - BRUNEI

Wijaya is the pen name of Yang Berhormat Pehin Jawatan Dalam Seri Maharaja Dato Seri Utama Dr Haji Awang Mohd. Jamil Al-Sufri bin Begawan Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Seri Paduka Haji Awang Umar.

Yang Berhormat Pehin is a prominent figure in the fields of education, literature, history, culture and religion in Brunei Darussalam. He started writing in the '40s and is interested in history, literature, language, culture and education. He has produced few books in many fields. Renungan is Yang Berhormat Pehin's first anthology of poems.

- AFRIZAL MALNA - INDONESIA

Malna grew to be a poet and cultural worker, dedicated in his arts. He has participated in many collaborative avant-garde arts and performance. His main domain, however, is poetry. In the '80s he was known as the proponent of "dark" poetry, a term used to describe the complex and innovative style of his art.

- DARA KANLAYA - LAOS

Douangchampa is the pen name of Dara Kanlaya, 72, author of some 60 short stories, over 90 poems, seven novels, and a two-hour play, Boua Deng. Dara started her career as a schoolteacher and began her writing in 1958. Now retired, she keeps writing and publishing children's books, novels and poetry. Dara's writing theme mostly deals with women's issues and gender, and promotes a better living standard for women through education. She also works as curator of old palm-leaf manuscripts, and studies classic Lao literature.

- ZAEN KASTURI - MALAYSIA

Zaen writes in various genres, including Yuda (a collection of short stories), Katarsis and Iga (collections of poems), and Angin Belantara (novel). Zaen is currently the new voice in the local literary scene who gives life to a fast forgotten, easily ignored discipline (literature).

- MARJORIE EVASCO - THE PHILIPPINES

Evasco's published works in poetry and biography are included in the canon of Philippine Literature. The Manila Critics Circle gave National Book Awards to all her five books: Dreamweavers; Ochre Tones: Poems in English and Cebuano; Six Women Poets: Inter/Views; A Life Shaped by Music; and Ani: The Life & Art of Hermogena Borja Lungay (2006).

- JOHAR BIN BUANG - SINGAPORE

Known by his pseudonym, H.B. Johar, attributes his interest and inspiration to write Sufic poems in the early '80s to his religious teacher, Syekh Muhammad Thaha Al-Muhammadi, who prayed for him.

- ZAKARIYA AMATAYA - THAILAND

Zakariya was born in Narathiwat province. He then spent five years in central India studying Islamic Sciences, Arabic Language and Literature at Darul Uloom Nadwatul Ulama College before returning home to study Comparative Religion at Mahidol University.

He initially discovered his passion for poetry during his years in India. During his junior year, his writing on free verse poetry had started to flourish when he took courses in Classic, Mediaeval and Contemporary Arabic Literature. Zakariya wanted to become a "bridge" between different cultures and languages.

- NGUYEN NGAT ANH - VIETNAM

Nguyen Nhat Anh is a Vietnamese author of incisive stories for both teenagers and adults. He is also a teacher, a poet and a journalist. He is regarded as one of the most successful writers for teens. His most well known novel, Kinh van hoa (Kaleidoscope), which contains 54 volumes, has recently been made into four drama series of the same name.

Fellows of the UST National Criticism Workshop Bared

Fellows of the UST National Criticism Workshop Bared

The University of Santo Tomas is proud to announce the acceptance of the following young critics to the 2nd J. Elizalde Navarro Workshop in Criticism on the Arts and the Humanities: Aidel Paul G. Belamide (UP Los Banos), Hammed Q. Bolotaolo (Ateneo de Davao/ UP Diliman), Mary Jessel B. Duque (UP Diliman), Anne Christine Ensomo (Ateneo de Manila), Luis Miguel Ereneta (Ateneo de Manila), Alona Guevarra (UP Diliman),Maxsim Moossavinassab (UP Diliman), Waldo Reyes Petralba (De La Salle University/ UP Diliman), Alvin Ringgo C. Reyes (University of Santo Tomas/ De La Salle University) and Frank Lloyd B. Tiongson (UP Diliman).

The Criticism Workshop which will be held on May 23-29, 2009 in Baguio City is endowed and organized by the Varsitarian, the 81-year-old official student organ of UST. It is held in honor of the late Nationalist Artist for the Visual Arts and art critic J. Elizalde Navarro, who was art editor and critic-poet of the Varsitarian during his student days, and in connection with the 400th anniversary of UST in 2011.

The fellows are requested to get in touch with Asst. Prof. Ralph Semino Galán through his mobile phone (0920-9258639) and/or email (ralphseminogalan@gmail.com) for details regarding the arrangements of the workshop. Applicants who did not make the cut this year are encouraged to apply again in the future.

UST Extends Deadline for 2nd National Criticism Workshop

UST Extends Deadline for 2nd National Criticism Workshop

The University of Santo Tomas is still accepting applications to the 2nd J. Elizalde Navarro Workshop in Criticism on the Arts and Humanities to be held on May 23 to 29, 2010 in Baguio City.

The workshop is endowed and organized by the Varsitarian, the 82-year-old official student organ of UST. It is held in honor of the late Nationalist Artist for the Visual Arts and art critic J. Elizalde Navarro, who was art editor and critic-poet of the Varsitarian during his student days. This annual workshop is part of the academic celebrations leading to the 400th anniversary of UST in 2011.

Fellowships will be given to 10 promising young critics who would like to enhance their analytical, research and writing skills.

To be considered for the fellowship, applicants should submit a scholarly, properly documented critical essay (7-12 pages, double-spaced, 12-point font) on any of the art forms (literature, painting, sculpture, architecture, dance, drama, music, etc.) on or before April, 2010.

Manuscripts should be submitted in hard copy and on CD, preferably in MS Word, together with a resumé, a recommendation letter from an academic mentor or a literary/art critic, a certification that the works are original, and two 2X2 ID pictures.

Address all applications to the conference conveners: Assoc. Prof. Ferdinand M. Lopez and/or Asst. Prof. Ralph Semino Galán, Faculty of Arts and Letters, University of Santo Tomas, España Street, Sampaloc, Manila. E-mail ralphseminogalan@gmail.com for further inquiries.

National Book Development Board November 2009 Activities

This November is all about our talented Pinoy writers, and the publishers of these talented Pinoy writers! Join the NBDB in a month-long celebration of Philippine Book Development Month. If you haven't picked up a Pinoy book recently it's about time you know that ang GALING PINOY, ay dapat BASAHIN!

I. The Writers, Their Works

How to Read… the next generation
A series of readings and intimate talks with young writers in the context of their literary genres and specific works

Venue: Filipinas Heritage Library

1. For poetry (November 10, 9am)
Featuring: Conchitina Cruz, Mikael Co, Mesandel Arguelles, and Joel Toledo
Moderator: Gémino Abad

2. For fiction (November 11, 1pm)
Featuring: Tara FT Sering, Edgar Samar, Dean Alfar, Angelo Lacuesta
Moderator: Jose Dalisay

3. For non-fiction (November 12, 9am)
Featuring: Luis Katigbak, Vlad Gonzales, Rica Bolipata Santos, Louie Cano, Carljoe Javier
Moderator: Antonio Hidalgo

II. Reading Nick Joaquin (November 16, 2009)
A discussion of Nick Joaquin as historian, novelist, poet and his contributions to the literary art form and the Filipino way of life.

1. NJ and his non-fiction
A lecture by fictionist Cristina Pantoja Hidalgo

2. NJ and his poetry
A lecture by poet Afred Yuson

3. Transforming NJ’s works into film
(Lecturer to be announced)

4. A film viewing of NJ’s work turned into a movie
Tentaive Venue: Greenbelt 3's My Cinema

III. Global Pinoy Literature (November 24, 5pm)
Coffee and conversation with three Man Asian Literary Prize winner / finalists Miguel Syjuco, Jose Dalisay, and Alfred Yuson and Gémino Abad, recipient of the Prize Premio Feronia – Citta di Fiano 2009.

Venue: Filipinas Heritage Library, by invitation only
Moderator: Isagani Cruz

IV. El Filibusterismo (November 25, 2009)
A sequel to the reading of Noli Me Tangere, the El Filibusterismo performance reading will be a showcase of talent from different fields of the art as artists and celebrity performers read / perform chapters of this historic and tumultous novel.

Venue: Greenbelt Park

V. Pinoy Story Writing Contest
A month-long story writing contest open to all writers, focusing on specific topics such as Pinoy romance, chick lit, horror fiction, literary fiction. Four winners will be selected and will be awarded P15,000 to be announced during the Books and Art Festival at the Greenbelt Park. Winners also have a chance of being published by Precious Pages, Summit Books, Anvil and PsiCom.

VI. Books and Art Festival (November 23 to 26)
A festival that will showcase the best of Filipino literature and art in one venue. For five days, Greenbelt becomes a haven for artists (literary and visual) and art lovers where they will get to experience this unique mixture of the arts at the heart of the city.

VII. Writing about Philippine Culture, Art, and Food (November 7 to 8 2009)
An overnight adventure for those who want to sample the native culture of Southern Luzon. This will involve a tour to local art galleries, native restaurants, and Ugu Bigyan’s pottery shop.

VIII. Davao Academic Publishing Seminar (November 19 to 21, 2009)
An academic publishing conference for Mindanao-based publishers and universities, with Google’s Erik Hartmann, De La Salle’s Dr. Isagani Cruz, UP Press’ Dr. Luisa Camagay, and ADMU Press’ Maricor Baytion among others.

Venue: Ateneo De Davao University

IX. Tulaan sa Tren 2 launch
The much-loved Tulaan sa Tren is back with more poems and the winners of the Tulaan sa Tren 2 Poetry Contest, judged by no less than the country's top poets National Artist Bienvenido Lumbera, Feronia Prize winner Gemino Abad, and Man Asian Literary Prize finalist Krip Yuson.

Venue: The LRT2 Cubao Station, by invitation

For details, visit www.nbdb.gov.ph!


NOTE TO MY STUDENTS AND FRIENDS: I am one of the featured poets of the Tulaan sa Tren 2. Please attend the launch on November 26, 2009 at 2PM... Hope to see you there!

The 16th Iligan National Writers Workshop Opens

The 16th Iligan National Writers Workshop opens at 9 a.m., May 25, at the MSU-IIT Mini Theatre. Works in poetry, fiction, and drama in English and our regional languages by 16 fellows from around the country will be read and discussed by a distingushed panel of some of the most respected writers in Philippine Literature.

The Iligan workshop has set the tradition of publishing its proceedings and of inviting alumni fellows to give the keynote address. This year's keynote address will be given by poet-critic Ralph Semino Galan, alumnus of the 4th workshop 12 years ago.

This year's workshop will be highlighted by the launch of About Us (Christine Godinez-Ortega, ed.) and a compilation of all the keynote addresses (Mindanao Forum, 2009) since the workshop first opened in 1994. (The workshop was organized through the efforts and visions of workshop director Godinez-Ortega, Jaime An Lim, and Cirilo Bautista).

The workshop too pays tribute to the late poet-biologist Ed Ortega in afternoon ceremonies during the program's first day.

The Integrated Performing Arts Guild (IPAG) performs a multi-media transcreation of Godinez-Ortega' s poem "Camp Bushra's Mosque on Inquirer Page One." (direction and music: Steven P.C. Fernandez, choreography: Kenn Erwin Velasquez, and installation art by the IPAG Creative Collective).

The Workshop is one of 3 institutionalized writing programs of the National Commission for Culture and the Art (NCCA). Partners of the NCCA are the Mindanao Creative Writers Group, Inc., the MSU-Iligan Institute of Technology, and the MSU-IIT Office of Multi-Media Information and Dissemination Unit Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension.

16 fellows to the 16th Iligan National Writers Workshop

16 fellows to the 16th Iligan National Writers Workshop

The National Commission for Culture and Arts (NCCA) in cooperation with the MSU-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT)-Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research & Extension’s Multimedia Information & Dissemination Unit and the Mindanao Creative Writers Group, Inc., announce the 16 writing fellows to the 16th Iligan National Writers Workshop (INWW) to be held on May 25-29, 2009 in Iligan City. The writing fellows are:

LUZON:
FICTION (English): Timothy James M. Dimacali, UP Diliman/Pasay City; (Filipino): Ma. Fe de Guia, UP Los Banos/Caloocan City; POETRY (Filipino): Jason G. Tabinas, Ateneo de Manila University/ Pasig City; Arvin T. Ello, De la Salle University/ Paranaque City; PLAY(Filipino): Marianne Mixhaela Z. Villalon, UP Diliman/Quezon City.

VISAYAS:
POETRY (Waray): Phil Harold Mercurio, UP Tacloban/Calbayog City; Jhonil C. Bajado, UP Tacloban/Maydolong, Eastern Samar; (Cebuano): Russ Raniel A. Ligtas, UP Cebu/Cebu City; Cindy A. Velasquez, University of San Carlos/Cebu City; and (Hiligaynon): Sam S. Prudente, UP Diliman/Iloilo City.

MINDANAO:
FICTION (English): Gabriel P. Millado, UP Mindanao/Davao City; Justine May R. Torregosa, Ateneo de Zamboanga University (ADZU)/Zamboanga City; Paul Alfonse J. Marquez, ADZU/Zamboanga City; POETRY (English): Anderson V. Villa, Ateneo de Davao University/Davao City; (Chabacano): Edgar Darren G. Bendanillo, Zamboanga State College of Marine Science & Technology, Zamboanga City; and, the Manuel E. Buenafe Writing Fellow (poetry-English): Everlyn T. Jaji, ADZU/Zamboanga City.

Panelists this year are: Ma. Rosario Cruz Lucero, Jaime An Lim, Merlie M. Alunan, Victor N. Sugbo, Antonio Enriquez, Leoncio P. Deriada, German V. Gervacio, Steven Patrick C. Fernandez, Macario Tiu, this year’s keynote speaker, Ralph Semino Galan and the INWW Director Christine Godinez-Ortega.

Evaluators of INWW manuscripts this year: Bro. Karl Gaspar, CSsR; C. Godinez-Ortega, Arlene Yandug, Ed P. Ortega, German Gervacio, Steve Fernandez and Zola Gonzalez Macarambon.

Highlights this year include the launching of the 15th INWW Proceedings, ‘About Us’ edited by Godinez-Ortega and the Special Issue of the Mindanao Forum containing 15 INWW Keynote Lectures [from Lumbera to Enriquez] also edited by Godinez-Ortega. Both are published by the MSU-IIT OVCRE.

All writing fellows are asked to confirm their attendance to the INWW with the INWW secretariat (call Alice) on or before April 24, telefax: (063) 3516131; email: aliciabartolome@yahoo.com & patpcruz@yahoo.com.

Call for Submission of Manuscripts to the 1st J. Elizalde Navarro Workshop for Criticism on the Arts

Call for Submission of Manuscripts to the 1st J. Elizalde Navarro Workshop for Criticism on the Arts

The University of Santo Tomas Varsitarian is now accepting applications to the 1st J. Elizalde Navarro Workshop for Criticism on the Arts to be held April 19-25, 2009 in Baguio City.

This National Workshop in honor of Nationalist Artist for the Visual Arts and art critic J. Elizalde Navarro is offering ten fellowships to promising young critics who would like to enhance their analytical skills. Fellows will be provided free board and lodging for the duration of the workshop, and transportation cost from Manila to Baguio and vice versa.

To be considered for the fellowship, applicants should submit a scholarly, properly documented critical essay (seven- to twelve-pages, double-spaced, 12-point font) on any of the art forms (literature, painting, sculpture, architecture, dance, drama or music) on or before March 31, 2009.

Manuscripts should be submitted in hard copy and on CD, preferably in MS Word, together with a resumé, a recommendation letter from an academic mentor or a literary/art critic, a certification that the works are original, and two 2X2 ID pictures.

Address all applications to Ferdinand M. Lopez and Ralph Semino Galán, Faculty of Arts and Letters, University of Santo Tomas, España Street, Sampaloc , Manila.

Send your queries to Prof. Ralph Semino Galan: aquaboy0221@yahoo.com

48th Dumaguete National Writers Workshop

Call for Submission of Manuscripts to the 48th Dumaguete National Writers Workshop

The Dumaguete National Writers Workshop is now accepting applications for the 48th National Writers’ Workshop to be held May 4-15, 2009 in Dumaguete City.

This Writers Workshop is offering fifteen fellowships to promising young writers who would like a chance to hone their craft and refine their style. Fellows will be provided housing, a modest stipend, and a subsidy to partially defray costs of their transportation.

To be considered, applicants should submit manuscripts in English on or before March 27, 2009 (seven to ten poems; or three to five short stories; or three to five creative non-fiction essays).

Manuscripts should be submitted in hard copy and on CD, preferably in MS Word, together with a resume, a recommendation letter from a literature professor or a writer of national standing, a certification that the works are original, and two 2X2 ID pictures.

Send all applications or requests for information to Department of English and Literature, attention Prof. A.G. Soluta, Chair, Silliman University, 6200 Dumaguete City.

2009 Maningning Miclat Poetry Competition

CALL FOR ENTRIES TO THE 2009 MANINGNING MICLAT POETRY COMPETITION

The Maningning Miclat Art Foundation is calling on young poets aged 28 and below to submit their entry to the 2009 Maningning Miclat Trilingual Poetry Competition.

The Poetry Competition consists of 3 divisions - Filipino, English and Chinese. An entry must consist of at least eight (8) but not more than fifteen (15) poems. Authors may join all the divisions but can submit only one (1) entry in every division. All entries should be original in every language and not a translation of another entry.

All entries should be submitted in four (4) copies, double spaced on 81/2 x 11 inches bond paper with one inch margin on all sides and with ARIAL or TIMES NEW ROMAN size 12 font. Entry should be submitted with pen name only. Real name and pen name should be submitted in a separate sealed envelop together with a biodata, copy of birth certificate and a notarized declaration of originality and authenticity of authorship of the entry.

Entries must be addressed to the Maningning Miclat Art Foundation, Inc. (MMAFI), 2nd Floor Mile Long Building, Amorsolo St., Legaspi Village, Makati City (Tel No. 816-7490 to 91) not later than 5:00 P.M. of April 15, 2009. Entries sent by mail should be postmarked/invoiced not later than April 1, 2009.

The Maningning Award, handed out yearly since 2003, honors China-born Maningning Miclat, a trilingual poet and writer, and a prize-winning visual artist. She won the Grand Prize in the non-representational category of the Art Association of the Philippines Art Competition in 1992. She celebrated her 28th birthday on April 15, 2000 by launching her trilingual book of poetry, “Voice from the Underworld” (Anvil Publishing, Inc., 2000). It is the first book of poetry in the world in Filipino, English and Chinese languages written solely by one author. Her life was cut short when she passed on in September of the same year.

The landmark book, which was chosen by the Manila Critics Circle as finalist in the 2000 National Book Awards, includes Maningning’s poems in Chinese. She was one of the world’s Top 39 women poets writing in Chinese. Some of the poems were anthologized in a book published in 1995 during the International Women’s Year held in Beijing .

The Maningning Miclat Art Foundation was founded in 2001 to carry on the artist/ poet’s legacy, encourage creativity, and support and award young outstanding poets and artists. Poetry competitions in Filipino, English and Chinese languages are held during odd numbered years while Painting competitions are held during even numbered years.

Maningning Miclat was co-author, if posthumously, of the book, Beyond the Great Wall: A Family Journal, which won a 2006 National Book Award for biography. The Manila Critics Circle citation reads: “From 1971 to 1986, the Miclat family lived in the People’s Republic of China and this gathering of essays from Mario, Alma, Banaue and the late Maningning Miclat flow together in a majestic yet personal recollection of a time and place between times and places. Beyond the Great Wall signifies the act of celebration through memory, and moving on through returning.”

Grand winners in the 3 divisions of the Poetry Competition will each receive P28,000.00 together with a Julie Lluch trophy and the special collector’s edition of the books “Voice from the Underworld,” “Beauty for Ashes: Remembering Maningning,” and “Beyond the Great Wall.”

For more information on the 2009 Maningning Miclat Art Competition, please email maningningfoundation@gmail.com or acmiclat2008@yahoo.com.

Visit www.maningning.com.

And for those with Facebook account, see Manigning Miclat Fan Page.

16th Iligan National Writers Workshop (INWW)

16th Iligan National Writers Workshop (INWW)


The National Commission for Culture and Arts (NCCA), the Mindanao Creative Writers Group, Inc., and the Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology’s Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension (OVCRE) are accepting applications from writers to the 16th Iligan National Writers
Workshop (INWW) to be held on May 25-29, 2009 in Iligan City.


Sixteen (16) slots, five each from Luzon and Visayas and six from Mindanao are available for writing fellowships to the INWW. Of the slots for Mindanao, one (1) is for the Manuel T. Buenafe Writing Fellowship preferably for Muslim or Lumad applicants.

Applicants are required to submit five poems; or, one short story; or, for the novel, a summary and 2 chapters for this work-in-progress; and, a one-act play in Filipino, English or in Cebuano.

For entries in Hiligaynon, Kinaray-a, Waray and Chavacano, translations in English are required. Please submit along with the application form two, 2X2 photos. The application form may be downloaded at www.msuiit.edu.ph (go to Department of Research-MMIDU). Please submit a hard copy and a CD with the manuscripts encoded in MS Word97. Unpublished works are preferred. Applicants must have attended at least one regional/local writers workshop, no exceptions.

Writing fellows will be given free board and lodging and a travel allowance. Applications must be postmarked on or before February 15, 2009. No applications or manuscripts will be accepted if sent after postmarked dates or by fax or e-mail.

Applicants are also advised to keep copies of their manuscripts since these will not be returned. Send all applications to the 16th INWW Director, Christine F. Godinez-Ortega c/o OVCRE, MSU-IIT, Iligan City. For more information contact Pat Cruz or Alice Bartolome or Cherly Adlawan, tels. (063) 3516131; or e-mail: patcruz@yahoo.com/cherlyadlawan@yahoo.com/aliciabartolome@yahoo.com.

IPAG Performances: 2nd Half Sked

Ranaw” on extended run

[see Ranaw video trailer]

Cheering audiences have filled to watch IPAG’s latest theatre favorite, “Ranaw: Isang Alamat” (Ranaw: A Legend). The first 17-run series of this dance-musical opened Sept. 13 and closed Sept. 25.

A second 10-run series has been set Nov.10 - 14, at the MSU-IIT Mini Theatre, to accommodate demand from more audiences to watch the play. Drawing from its “matinee” appeal with its “general patronage” content, “Ranaw” attracted the audiences for its compelling music, dance, story, and visuals. The play won in the 1985 Playwriting Contest of the Cultural Center of the Philippines and has received a number of acclamations since its first major tour in the 1980’s.

A Davao City road show is set starting in January 21, 2009.

The dance-music play presents our pre-colonial tribes in turmoil that prophesy our fragmented state today. Dug from the research of the late Dionisio Orellana, the play chronicles the journey of a lesser known Mindanao epic hero Bato Lakungan who traverses triumphs and painful reversals of fortunes in his attempts to unite the North-Central Mindanao tribes. “Ranaw” was produced under an NCCA subsidy. It is set to go on tour in Davao City in the third week of January, 2009.

Poetry to Performance

[watch "Origami" video excerpt]
IPAG offers Tula Tugma sa Dula for the Philippine Arts Festival in 2009. Poems written by some of the leading poets based in the South will be transformed into a multi-media experience. This popularizes poetry to a wider audience as the word transcreating into movement, sound, and color.

Collaborating with our performing artists, choreographers, and composers are wordsmiths whose work will be reshaped: Marge Evasco, Anthony Tan, Ralph Semino Galan, Henry Opulencia, German Gervacio, and Christine Godine-Ortega. It premieres February 11, 2009 at the MSU-IIT Rooftop Theatre in Iligan City .

“Tales” and "Tatlo" continue to delight

[view Tatlo trailer video]

IPAG’s long-running “Tales From Mindanao” and its sequel "Tatlo sa Isa" completed its 1st leg of a national tour last August thrilling Manila as it has done in the last 17 years playing to full houses and captivating audiences. (IPAG estimates this string of dance-music vignettes has fascinated almost a million audiences around the country and the world.)

Davao hosts the 2nd leg which begins in the 3rd week of November. “Tales” and its sequel “Tatlo Sa Isa” are set to hit the provinces of Davao and South Cotabato again this season, and Cagayan de Oro in February, 2009.

Ranaw: Isang Alamat
Nov. 10 – 14, 2008
10:30 a.m., 2:30 p.m.
MSU-IIT Mini-Theatre , Iligan City

Tatlo sa Isa
Nov. 18 – 24, 2008
Davao and South Cotabato , various venues

Tales From Mindanao
Nov. 26 – Dec. 5, 2008
Manila schools, various venues

Ranaw: Isang Alamat
Tales From Mindanao
Jan. 21 -24, 2009
Davao City, various venues

Tales From Mindanao
Feb. 5, 2009
XU, Cgn de Oro City

Tula Tugma sa Dula
Feb. 11-13, 2009
7:30 p.m., CASS Rooftop Theatre
MSU-IIT, Iligan City

Ranaw: Isang Alamat
[dates depend on open sked of the Tanghalang Aurelio Tolentino of the CCP]

Three People in One Island
International road tour
Spring, last week March – April 2009
U.S. East and West coast

Performance schedules may change without prior notice. Please contact IPAG Marketing for immediate and specific information [09167006209 or +63-4922354, fax: 2232494 email: ipagarts@yahoo. com web: www.msuiit.edu.ph/ipag]

Winners of the 58th Palanca Awards for Literature

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE WINNERS OF THE 58TH DON CARLOS PALANCA MEMORIAL AWARDS FOR LITERATURE



Filipino Division



Nobela



Norman Wilwayco

Elmo Basangdahon

“Gerilya”

Grand prize, Nobela



MAIKLING KUWENTO



Maria Lucille G. Roxas

“Game Show”

1st prize, Maikling Kuwento



Lemuel E. Garcellano

Oona

“Anghel Kalahig”

2nd prize, Maikling Kuwento



Rommel B. Rodriguez

“Kabagyan”

3rd prize, Maikling Kuwento



MAIKLING KUWENTONG PAMBATA



April Jade B. Imson

Pinatola I’ Kilid

“Si Karding at ang Buwaya”

2nd prize, Maikling Kuwentong Pambata



Allan Alberto N. Derain

Alon Darang

“May Tatlong Kurimaw”

3rd prize, Maikling Kuwentong Pambata



SANAYSAY



Jing Panganiban-Mendoza

Sestina Amara

“Ang Pagbabalik ng Prinsesa ng Banyera”

1st prize, Sanaysay



Michael M. Coroza

Harana ng Puso

“Ang Mabuhay Singers at Ako sa Pag-awit At Pag-ibig”

2nd prize, Sanaysay



Eugene Y. Evasco

Latido Del Corazon

“Agaw-Buhay”

3rd prize, Sanaysay



TULA



Mikael de Lara Co

“Ang Iba’t Ibang Ngalan ng Hangin”

1st prize, Tula



Renato L. Santos

“Sari-Saring Salaghati…”

(at good-bye-my-kangkungan)

2nd prize, Tula



Niles Jordan Breis

Maria Socorro Antimonado

“Rubrica” mga lakbay-nilay at

pagbubunyag

3rd prize, Tula



DULANG MAY ISANG YUGTO



Floy C. Quintos

Noel Carillon

“Ang Kalungkutan ng mga Reyna”

1st prize, Dulang May Isang Yugto



Debbie Ann Tan

Golden Piat

“Teroristang Labandera”

2nd prize, Dulang May Isang Yugto



Allan B. Lopez

“Masaganang Ekonomiya”

3rd prize, Dulang May Isang Yugto



DULANG PAMPELIKULA



Emmanuel A. Dela Cruz/ Michiko Yamamoto

Setsuko

1434456 “The Singalong Singhs”

1st prize, Dulang Pampelikula



Dennis M. Marasigan

“Joy”

2nd prize, Dulang Pampelikula



Alfred Aloysius L. Adlawan

“Padyak”

3rd prize, Dulang Pampelikula



Kabataan sanaysay



Allen D. Yuarata

“Nang Dumating Si Joe”

3rd prize, Kabataan Sanaysay



Regional Languages Division



MAIKLING KUWENTO - CEBUANO



Macario D. Tiu

Sandino De Jesus

“Tsuru”

1st prize, Maikling Kuwento-Cebuano



Edgar S. Godin

Surealiza Maldoy-on

“Bingo”

2nd prize, Maikling Kuwento-Cebuano



Lilia T. Tio

Antonia

“Sapatos”

3rd prize, Maikling Kuwento-Cebuano



MAIKLING KUWENTO - HILIGAYNON



Leoncio P. Deriada

Ma. Asuncion Magbanua

“Ang Pagbalik sang Babaylan”

1st prize, Maikling Kuwento-Hiligaynon



Alice Tan Gonzales

“Dawata, Anak”

2nd prize,Maikling Kuwento-Hiligaynon



Marcel L. Milliam

Luis Batchoy

“Bitay”

3rd prize, Maikling Kuwento-Hiligaynon



MAIKLING KUWENTO - ILUKO



Danilo B. Antalan

Karissabong

“Dangilen”

1st prize, Maikling Kuwento-Iluko



Ariel S. Tabag

Saniata T. Bannawag

“Littugaw”

2nd prize, Maikling Kuwento-Iluko



Aurelio S. Agcaoili

Alegoria A. Nasudi

“Alegoria Uno”

3rd prize, Maikling Kuwento-Iluko



English Division



Novel



Miguel Syjuco

“Ilustrado”

Grand prize, Novel



SHORT STORY



Ian Rosales Casocot

Tatiana Pedillo

“Things You Don’t Know”

1st prize, Short Story



Tara FT Sering

Tinkerbell

“Good People”

2nd prize, Short Story



Nadine L. Sarreal

Sarah L. Natahan

“Night Sounds”

3rd prize, Short Story



SHORT STORY FOR CHILDREN



Celestine Marie G. Trinidad

“The Storyteller and the Giant”

1st prize, Short Story for Children



Kathleen Aton-Osias

“The Mapangarap and the Dream Trees”

3rd prize, Short Story for Children



ESSAY



Jose Claudio B.Guerrero

Headmistress Millie

“Talking to a Fu Dog on a Wedding Afternoon”

1st prize, Essay



Katrina Stuart Santiago

Pregnant Pause

“Mirrors”

2nd prize, Essay



Jhoanna Lynn B. Cruz

Bubu Banchi

“Sapay Koma”

3rd prize, Essay



POETRY



Francis C. Macansantos

“Morphic Variations”

1st prize, Poetry



Ana Maria Katigbak

Constance Pendleton

“Sl(e)ights”

2nd prize, Poetry



Marie La Viña

Dee Perez

“The Gospel According to the Blind Man”

3rd prize, Poetry



ONE-ACT PLAY



Maria Clarissa N. Estuar

Bluekessa

“Anybody’s Revolution”

1st prize, One-act Play



Percival Intalan

P. Parker

“Secret Identities”

2nd prize, One-act Play



Joachim Emilio B. Antonio

“Newspaper Dance”

3rd prize, One-act Play



FULL-LENGTH PLAY



Peter Solis Nery

Guglielmo Dellamaggidra

“The Passion of Jovita Fuentes”

1st prize, Full-length Play



Kabataan Essay



Miro Frances D. Capili

“Rated X”

1st prize, Kabataan Essay

Cristina Gratia T. Tantengco

“Things That Lie Beyond The Postcards”

2nd prize, Kabataan Essay

Elfermin M. Mallari, Jr.

“The Roads and Dreams That Meander”

3rd prize, Kabataan Essay



We would also like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to our esteemed judges for sharing with us their time and expertise, and for their dedication to the development of Philippine Literature.



Filipino Division



NOBELA

Lualhati T. Bautista, Tagapangulo

Jun Cruz Reyes

Dr. Domingo G. Landicho



DULANG PAMPELIKULA

Roy C. Iglesias, Tagapangulo

Mark A. Meily

Frank G. Rivera



DULANG GANAP ANG HABA

Dr. Ricardo G. Abad, Tagapangulo

Nonilon Queaño

Manuel Buising



DULANG MAY ISANG YUGTO

Rodolfo C. Vera, Tagapangulo

Chris Martinez

Elmer Gatchalian



MAIKLING KUWENTO

Lamberto E. Antonio, Tagapangulo

Dr. Fanny A. Garcia

Levy B. Dela Cruz



MAIKLING KUWENTONG PAMBATA

Ani Rosa S. Almario, Tagapangulo

Augie D. Rivera

Christine S. Bellen



SANAYSAY

Dr. Lilia F. Antonio, Tagapangulo

Roberto T. Añonuevo

Dr. Imelda Pineda-De Castro



TULA

Romulo Baquiran, Jr., Tagapangulo

Rhoderick V. Nuncio

Marra PL. Lanot



English Division



NOVEL

Antonio A. Hidalgo, Chairperson

Dr. Soledad S. Reyes

Shirley O. Lua



FULL-LENGTH PLAY

Malou L. Jacob, Chairperson

Fernando C. Josef

Glen Sevilla Mas



ONE-ACT PLAY

Dr. Jerry C. Respeto, Chairperson

Ronan B. Capinding

Nathaniel Joseph F. De Mesa



SHORT STORY

Charlson L. Ong, Chairperson

Dr. Jose Neil C. Garcia

Vicente Garcia Groyon III



SHORT STORY FOR CHILDREN

Ma. Elena Paterno-Locsin, Chairperson

Zarah C. Gagatiga

Ma. Luisa S. Felix



ESSAY

Karina A. Bolasco, Chairperson

Dr. Nilo L. Rosas

Dr. Ronald Baytan



POETRY

Dr. Marjorie Evasco, Chairperson

Dr. Jaime An Lim

Dr. Cesar Aquino



MAIKLING KUWENTO-CEBUANO

Dr. Teresita G. Maceda, Tagapangulo

Dr. Belen Calingacion

Atty. Manuel Faelnar



MAIKLING KUWENTO-ILUKO

Herminio S. Beltran, Jr., Tagapangulo

Ma. Leonida Fres-Felix

Rufino Rebudal



MAIKLING KUWENTO-HILIGAYNON

Dr. Corazon D. Villareal, Tagapangulo

Dr. Isabel Sebullen

Ms. Ada J. Loredo



KABATAAN SANAYSAY

Ligaya T. Rubin, Tagapangulo

Violeta A. Laraya

Perfecto T. Martin



KABATAAN ESSAY

Dr. Jose Wendell P. Capili, Chairperson

Ralph Semino Galan

Benilda S. Santos

Pistang Panitik 2007

PISTANG PANITIK 2007
The 28th Manila International Book Fair
World Trade Center

After the success of last year’s "Pistang Panitik," LIKHAAN: The U.P. Institute of Creative Writing, in partnership with the Book Development Association of the Philippines, Prime Trade Asia, Anvil Publishing, the National Book Development Board and Read Or Die, will mount "Pistang Panitik 2007" at the World Trade Center from August 30, 2007 to September 2, 2007 to coincide with the 28th Manila International Book Fair.

"Pistang Panitik" was conceived by UP ICW Director Vim Nadera as a literary festival where readers and writers alike can meet and greet. This year’s "Pistang Panitik" is much more ambitious as it spans over the 5 days of the Manila International Book Fair and will focus on the five living National Artists For Literature: Virgilio Almario, Bienvenido Lumbera, Alejandro Roces, F. Sionil Jose, and Edith Tiempo. It aims to re-introduce to contemporary audiences all their contributions to Philippine culture and the arts through commentaries by noted literary critics, performances by theatrical and poetry groups, and reader reactions.

Araw ni Bienvenido Lumbera
AUGUST 30 Function Room A 1:00-3:00 PM

KRITIKO: Dr. Roland Tolentino, Dr. Rod Nuncio, at Dr. Rosario Torres Yu
TAGAPAGTANGHAL: Bb. Susan Magno
MULA SA MAMBABASA: Kristin Mandigma & Marianne Suba


Araw ni Francisco Sionil Jose
AUGUST 31 Function Rm A 1:00-3:00 p.m.

KRITIKO: Dr. Neil Garcia, Dr. Ophelia Alcantara Dimalanta at Prof. Ferdie Lopez
TAGAPAGTANGHAL: Under Siege
MULA SA MAMBABASA: Mia Sereno & Israel Realin


Araw ni Virgilio Almario
SEPTEMBER 1 Function Rm B1:00- 3:00 p.m.

KRITIKO: G. Roberto Añonuevo, Prof. Mike Coroza at G. Rogelio Mangahas
TAGAPAGTANGHAL: Linangan sa Imahen, Retorika, at Anyo
MULA SA MAMBABASA: Kristel Autencio, Renita Norada


Araw ni Alejandro Roces
SEPTEMBER 2 Function Rm A1:00- 5:00 p.m.

KRITIKO: Dr. Isagani Cruz, Prof. Lito Zulueta, at Prof. Danton Remoto
TAGAPAGTANGHAL: Alitaptap Storytellers Philippines
MULA SA MAMBABASA: Rachel Teng, Karen Inocencio & Paolo Cruz


Araw ni Edith Tiempo

KRITIKO: G. Alfred Yuson, Dr. Gemino Abad, Prof. Ralph Semino Galan
TAGAPAGTANGHAL: Ony Carcamo
MULA SA MAMBABASA: Pamela Punzalan & Mia Marci


Note: The revised version of "Articulations of Both Heart and Mind: The Love Poems of Edith L. Tiempo", the paper I read for this literary event will be published in the June 2008 issue of UNITAS, UST's scholarly publication for the arts and the sciences. Many thanks to John Jack Wigley, the Acting Director of the UST Publishing House, for believing in my capacity as a literary critic, albeit a fledging one.

Ubod New Authors Series

UBOD NEW AUTHORS SERIES

The National Commission for the Culture and the Arts (NCCA) through the National Committee on Literary Arts (NCLA) will formally launch the “Ubod New Authors Series,” which features 40 of Philippine literati’s newest gems, at the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) Main Lobby, Roxas Blvd., Pasay City, on Dec. 6 at 6 p.m.

The series consists of 50-page chapbooks (5½” x 8½”) of selected poems, fiction, creative nonfiction and drama in English, Filipino and other Philippine languages written by young and promising Filipino writers. Ubod is the Tagalog and Cebuano word for “heart extracted out of palm or bamboo.”

Presidential assistant on culture and NCCA executive director Cecile Guidote Alvarez, CCP vice president and artistic director Fernando C. Josef and NCLA head Joselito Zulueta will present the first copies of “Ubod” to the authors.

An overview of the series will be presented by Ricky de Ungria, UP Mindanao chancellor and former head of the NCLA from 1998 to 2001, when “Ubod” was first hatched.

There will also be remarks from Gemino Abad, general editor of “Ubod,” and Hermino Beltran, head of the CCP Office on Literature and former head of the NCLA from 2001 to 2004, during which “Ubod” started to be implemented.

The writers of the series are Sid Hildawa, Naya Valdellon, Gabriela Lee, Raul Moldez, Rosendo Makabali and Ralph Semino Galan for poetry in English; Joseph Salazar, Edgar Calabia Samar, Richard Gappi, Joselito de los Reyes, Joselyn Floresca, Enrico Torralba, Marieta Culibao, and Jema Pamintuan for poetry in Filipino; Santiago Villafania for poetry in Pangasinan; and Estellito Baylon Jacob for poetry in Bicolano.

The series also features Anna Felicia Sanchez, Peter Mayshle, Ian Casocot, Mildred Malaki and Arifa Jamil for fiction in English; Alwyn Aguirre, Vlademeir Gonzales, Alvin Yapan, Maricris Calilung and Ernesto Carandang Jr. for fiction in Filipino; Julio Belmes for fiction in Iluko; Januar Enero Yap for fiction in Cebuano; Genvieve Asenjo for fiction in Kinaray-a; and John Barrios for fiction in Aklanon.

Also included on the series are the works of Georgina Verdolaga and Maryanne Moll for creative nonfiction in English; Debbie Ann Tan, Christopher Gozum, and Liza Magtoto for drama in English; and Bay-viz Canleon, Edward Perez, Dennis Marasigan and Chris Martinez for drama in Filipino.


Note: This event happened almost three years ago, but since I am waxing nostalgic while creating this online archive of my life as a writer, I might as well include this press release as well as two pictures courtesy of Ian Casocot.

Ralph Semino Galan with Ian Casocot at the CCP Main Lobby.

15th Iligan National Writers Workshop

15th ILIGAN NATIONAL WRITERS WORKSHOP

The 15th Iligan National Writers workshop capped this year’s event with the Jimmy Y. Balacuit Awards to the following fellows:

FICTION:
First: Sara Jane Domingo Sebastian (Luzon, fiction, Filipino) -- "Amahinasyon"
Second: Efmer E. Agustin (Visayas-Cebuano) - "Kasayuran ug Borloloy"
Third: Samantha Echavez - (Luzon-Fiction English) " The Whore Fairy"

POETRY:
First: Erick Dasig Aguilar (Luzon- poetry Filipino) "Baseco, Baseco II, Baseco III"
Second: Leonilo P. Lopido( Visayas-Waray poetry) - "Pagliay-liay, Alugan, Hi Pititay"
Special Prize for Individual Poem - Nino Manaog (Visayas-English poem) -"Encanto"
Honorable Mention for Individual Poem - Luciano L. Abia (Visayas-Waray poem) - "Lagatob han dughan hin batan-on nga mangirisda"

The 1st Manuel Buenafe Writing Fellow Award was presented to Yakan fellow Marion Guerrero. This endowment named after poet-fictionist Buenafe who grew up in Lanao and later became UN-FAO representative is awarded by the Buenafe heirs to ensure an additional Mindanao slot in the competitive workshop. Next year, historian Ricardo Jorge Caluen will award his bursary.

Complementing the awards ceremonies during the closing program was the launch of Fire and Faith in Writing (Christine Godinez-Ortega, ed.), published proceedings of the workshop last year. [The Iligan workshop publishes its proceedings every year to document the creative writing process.]

The fellows also read their poems and those of last year’s in a concert entitled “Kape, Lipstik, ug Balak Gikan sa Malipayong Kinabuhi.“

Panelists include Ortega, the workshop director, keynote speaker Antonio Enriquez, Ralph Semino Galan, Victor Sugbo, Chari Cruz-Lucero, German Gervacio, Leo Deriada, and Steven P.C. Fernandez.

The Iligan workshop is one of three institutionalized national workshops in the country today. It is supported by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts and conducted by the Mindanao Creative Writers Group, Inc. and the MSU-Iligan Institute of Technology Media --- of the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension.

Note: This article was written by Steven P.C. Fernandez.