Philippine Embassy officials, led by Ambassador Junever M. Mahilum-West (center right), with Mr. Jose Dalisay, Jr. (center left), Ms. June Dalisay, and Ms. Criselda Yabes.
In anticipation of the 2024 National Literature Month (NLM), the Philippine Embassy in Paris held a literary reading of the works of multi-awarded writer Mr. Jose “Butch” Dalisay, Jr. and critically acclaimed author Ms. Criselda Yabes on 26 March 2024 at the chancery.
With his year’s NLM theme: “Ang Panitikan at Kapayapaan”, the reading showcased the country’s contemporary literary heritage and demonstrated the power of literature in describing the Philippine experience
Mr. Jose Dalisay, Jr. reads his excerpts from his books and his poems to literary enthusiasts
Mr. Jose Dalisay, Jr., a 16-time Palanca Awardee in five literary genres, read his work Killing Time in A Warm Place and his poems that capture the Filipinos’ migration experience. The readings resonated with the audience, as he drew a vibrant verbal imagery of the Filipino identity and experience.
Francisco Balagtas lifetime achievement awardee Ms. Criselda Yabes read excerpts fron her works Below the Crying Mountain, a weave of love stories with a backdrop of the Muslim secessionist uprising in the 1970s, and Sarena’s Story: The Loss of a Kingdom which recounts the story of the Sulu Sultanate. Her works as a literary journalist and author explored the constant struggle for peace in the south.
Guest writers Mr. Jose Dalisay, Jr. and Ms. Criselda Yabes respond to audiences’ queries and interventions in an interactive discussion.
An interactive discussion between the guest authors and the audience followed, with Mr. Dalisay and Ms. Yabes sharing their personal inspirations and techniques especially with aspiring writers. They also exchanged perspectives on various topics such as the impact of technological developments on literature, educating the youth, and key social concerns in the country.
Guest authors and Embassy officials with some attendees at the reading event.
Mr. Jose Dalisay, Jr. and and his spouse Ms. June Mercy Poticar Dalisay are currently guest lecturers of the Instituts d'études politiques (Sciences Po Paris).
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