Amado Angelo Rodriguez Lacuesta aka Sarge Lacuesta: An Underrated Filipino Author

 

Background of Amado Angelo Rodriguez Lacuesta aka Sarge Lacuesta:

Sarge Lacuesta is a well-known Filipino writer who specializes in short stories. His works frequently address issues of identity, family dynamics, modern Filipino living, and the shifting social scene. Lacuesta has been acknowledged for his ability to create fascinating stories that connect with readers both locally and abroad.

Overview of Literary Works:

Sarge Lacuesta has written numerous notable short story collections, including "White Elephants," "Life Before X and Other Stories," and "Flames and Other Stories." His literary style is distinguished by an introspective and nuanced portrayal of characters, emphasizing the intricacies of human emotions and relationships. Lacuesta's stories frequently explore the realities of Filipinos, both at home and abroad, highlighting the nuances of their interactions and personal challenges.

He has received numerous literary awards, including the famous Don Carlos Palanca Memorial Award for Literature. His pieces have appeared in a variety of anthologies and literary publications, establishing him as one of the Philippines' leading contemporary writers.

Example of His Literary Work:

One of his most known stories is "White Elephants" from his book of the same name. This narrative exemplifies Lacuesta's unique approach, in which he expertly explores complicated emotional landscapes inside mundane situations. The narrative of "White Elephants" revolves around themes of nostalgia, memory, and the often-unspoken issues within relationships between families.

Commentary on "White Elephants":

"White Elephants" conveys a sense of loss and longing through the metaphor of a decrepit house, which represents the protagonists' connections to their past. Lacuesta's style is vibrant and contemplative, transporting the reader to the inner lives of his characters. The narrative moves through the passage of time, the resulting changes, and the ruins of the past. The title alone alludes to something weighty and priceless: cherished memories that are difficult to bear.

In my honest opinion, through his literary works, Lacuesta invites readers to confront the inevitability of change and the bittersweet process of remembering. His ability to evoke strong emotional responses while keeping the narrative grounded in everyday experiences is one of the hallmarks of his storytelling.

Glenn Diaz: A Contemporary Artist

Glenn Diaz

Glenn Diaz is a lesser-known contemporary Filipino author whose work explores the complexities of global capitalism, labor migration, and the impact of political and social upheavals on individuals. His work is known for its nuanced critiques of modern Filipino society, which skillfully combine sharp social insights with a distinct narrative style that captures the realities of ordinary Filipinos, particularly those impacted by economic systems. Diaz's literary portfolio included short stories and essays that demonstrated his ability to combine personal reflection with broader societal observations

Background

Born and raised in Manila, He earned his Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from the University of the Philippines Diliman and currently teaches with the Department of English and Comparative Literature at the University of the Philippines Diliman. In addition, he has a PhD from the University of Adelaide. His foundations in the University of the Philippines Diliman in the fields of creative writing and his early schooling led to the development of a new story scheme designed to craft his vision. Furthermore, his experiences growing up in Manila's urban city had a significant impact on his writing, as evident by his vivid depictions of Filipino life, particularly in his book The Quiet Ones, which deals with the moral and existential dilemmas faced by call center workers in Manila.

Literary Works

"The Quite Ones"

Glenn Diaz’s debut book “THE QUIET ONES” published in 2017, have won several awards such as the 2017 Palanca Grand Prize, Philippine National Book Award, and the Madrigal Gonzales First Book Award. The book touches upon a compelling exploration of personal and societal issues, combining themes such as economic disparity, political power, and the undercurrents of modern Filipino life. His other notable works includes: “When the World Ended I Was Thinking about the Forest”, and “Yñiga”.

Diaz's story, "The Quiet Ones," is both reflective and observational. Alvin, the book's protagonist, must navigate the intricate complexities of modern-day Manila.  The book's pacing is deliberate, mirroring Alvin's own reflective journey and the gradual revelation of his internal conflicts. The book’s exploration of Alvin’s existential quest is reflective of broader themes relevant to many Filipinos, such as the pursuit of personal dreams amidst societal pressures and the quest for self-identity in a rapidly changing world. Diaz’s portrayal of these themes is both empathetic and insightful, allowing readers to engage deeply with Alvin’s experiences. The book is a darkly comedic take on a soul-crushing, multibillion-dollar industry. It explores lives rendered silent by irate callers, scripted apologies, and life's menial violence, but which manage to speak back every now and then, as long as the Mute button is firmly pressed.

In essence, Glenn Diaz currently stands as a noteworthy author in the contemporary Filipino literary landscape, showcasing his ability to voice various complexities of everyday Filipino life. His works address significant political and social issues, revealing a profound understanding of the country's challenges, especially in relation to global capitalism, migration, and economic disparities. He artfully combines these themes to craft narratives that are both engaging and deeply representative of the Filipino experience. His writing often carries a critical tone, encouraging readers to reflect on the systems of power that shape their realities, whether they are economic, political, or cultural.

References:

https://glenndiaz.ph/

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15286210.Glenn_Diaz

The Quiet Ones by Glenn Diaz | Goodreads

A Filipino classic comes home - BusinessWorld Online (bworldonline.com)

Enter post-colonial fractures in “The Quiet Ones” (thebenildean.org)

Jhoanna Lynn B. Cruz: A Woman With an Obligation

        I had a hard time pondering choosing a Filipino author to write about, mainly because I lacked knowledge about them and only knew a few. However, it’s undeniable that the Philippines is home to many writers who excel in writing poetry and other literary works, but still I was only familiar with a few. As I conducted my research, after reading multiple essays and stories, one line from an essay particularly caught my attention, “Sapay koma naimbag ti biag yo dita” which translates to "to hope that your life there is good.” This line, written by Jhoanna Lynn B. Cruz, intrigued me and led me to explore her works and purpose as an author.

Early Life & Accomplishments

Jhoanna Lynn B. Cruz, also known as “Joy Cruz” is a notable Filipina writer who is based in Mindanao. She is a professor who teaches linguistics, literature, and creative writing in the Department of Humanities of the University of the Philippines Mindanao and an advocate known for her contributions to contemporary Philippine literature, particularly in the fields of creative nonfiction and LGBTQ+ narratives. She completed her Master of Arts in Language and Literature and Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing at De La Salle University. She currently serves as the president of Davao Writers Guild and is the regional coordinator for Southern Mindanao in the National Committee on Literary Arts.

At a young age, she envisioned herself becoming a writer someday. She felt like she had a story to tell, especially she's a woman, and believed that she needs to express her thoughts and share her experiences to help contribute change in a patriarchal society she lived in. 

Her works were showcased at literary events in Hong Kong, Singapore, Bangkok, Vietnam, and Australia, and were featured in the 'New Asia Now' issue of Australia's Griffith Review. In 2015, she was a featured as a Philippine writer at the Melbourne Writers Festival as part of the Writers Immersion and Cultural Exchange (WrICE) Program at RMIT University in Melbourne. In addition, she's is a Palanca Award-winning writer and was the first Philippine representative at the Tokyo International Literacy Festival. She has also participated in writing residencies in both Vietnam and Australia. 

Literary Works 

Cruz’s works had established a significant voice in contemporary Philippine literature, which contributed to various topics including gender, identities, and society itself. One of her recognized works entitled “Women Loving: Stories and a Play" was published in 2010 and won the Philippines’ prestigious Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature. This collection of lesbian-themed short stories and a play explores the complexities of love and relationships among women in the Philippine context. This book brought significant contribution to LGBTQ+ literature in the country, particularly because it focuses on same-sex relationships, which have often been underrepresented in mainstream Philippine literature. The stories also gave highlight to the lives, desires, and struggles of queer women. In writing this, Jhoanna believed that “Writing is not just about me and my personal issues. It is an obligation to a community” inspiring many queer women. 

Another notable work of hers is “Abi Nako, Or So I Thought” that was published in 2020. This memoir won the 2021 National Book Award for Best Book of Nonfiction Prose in English from the National Book Development Board (NBDB) and the Manila Critics Circle in the Philippines. This memoir is about Jhoanna’s first ten years in Davao City, where she moved after her heterosexual marriage had failed. It reflects on her journey of rebuilding her life as a single mother to two children and her adventures in refreshing herself as a writer and a lesbian in the face of her own false expectations.

Her essay entitled “Sapay Koma”, which originally catched my attention, won third prize in the Essay Category of the 58th Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature. The title, derived from an Ilocano word, which means "I wish" or "I hope." This personal essay mirrors her story from “Abi Nako, Or So I Thought” because this is a personal essay she wrote that was published under that story. This tells the story of Maria, who was raised in Pasay City, who marries Leon who was raised in Itogon, Benguet. Despite identifying herself as a self-proclaimed lesbian and even having past relationships with women, Maria falls in love with Leon, perhaps due to her pregnancy or maybe because of love. However, their marriage begins to unravel due to cultural differences. At the end, “Sapay Koma”  is a story of  unspoken wishes. Each of the characters holds a secret, wishing to have done things differently or to have a kinder and more understanding to the shortcomings of everyone.

        Reflecting on Jhoanna’s background and accomplishments, I found myself wondering, “Why is this the first time I heard about her?. Despite her numerous awards and significant contributions she brought in the Philippine literature, her works are still relatively unknown to many. However, this realization made me grateful to write about her. Because, through her writing, teaching, and advocacy, Jhoanna Lynn B. Cruz has established herself as a significant voice in contemporary Philippine literature, offering her narratives and thoughts that can be beneficial to today’s generation. 

References: 

https://nicoleadriellaong.wordpress.com/2016/11/11/a-filipino-contemporary-author/

https://thegreenexplorerblog.wordpress.com/2016/11/13/jhonna-lynn-b-cruz-writing-is-not-just-about-me-and-my-personal-issues-it-is-an-obligation-to-a-community-2/

https://dagmay.online/2008/09/14/sapay-koma/

Author: Merliana Mari P. Collado

Emmanuel S. Torres: A Quiet Voice in Filipino Poetry

 Emmanuel S. Torres

A Quiet Voice in Filipino Poetry

Emmanuel S. Torres: An Almost Idealist: The Arts and Letters of a Filipino Renaissance Man

Who is Torres?

Emmanuel S. Torres was one of the most significant and outstanding personalities in the fields of Philippine arts and literature as he was a great poet, art critic, historian as well as a curator. Throughout his illustrious career, he emerged as one of the important figures in promoting modern and contemporary Filipino art and contributed significantly to the development of the Philippines’s art scene in the twentieth century. It can be said that Torres guided the Ateneo Art Gallery for more than 40 years, as a result of which he promoted the works of Filipino modernists such as Fernando Zóbel, Vicente Manansala, and Arturo Luz. The curatorial philosophy of Bard is credited for raising modernism within the context of Philippine art while encouraging non-mainstream trends or reactions against traditional iconographies.

In the realm of literature, Torres made his mark with his evocative poetry, most notably in his acclaimed collection "Shapes of Silence: Poems" (1966) The poems which are predominantly lyrical in form adeptly capture the flavors of America. His works done in ‘minimalism powerful stamp’ deal with love, memory, loss, and self-search, which are global issues along with strong Philippine insight. As a critic, Torres’s concise analysis and philosophical analysis threw real light on the relationship of art to society putting Filipino art in its proper historical perspective thereby placing it in the international art movements.

Torres’s professional career was that of a curator and a writer but also that of an educator, as throughout the years he was a professor at several educational institutions and contributed to forming young generations of artists and connoisseurs of art. His writing, artistry, and critical perspective are relevant in the circles of modern Philippine culture today and rightfully place him in the annals of culture’s most important modernist icons.

The Poet and the Writer

Emmanuel S. Torres came into existence in the year 1932. He is an admired poet who painted life in poignant verses. Lyrical and philosophical, reflecting the attitudes to language and emotion his poems are also filled with admiration and admiration. Many of the themes of Torres’s works are devoted to love and loss, time and memory, and are built based on the author’s reflection and the facts of life. One of his exhibits Angles of Ascent (1987) is considered one of the prominent poetry collections in Philippine literature as this shows his deep understanding of the craft. In the course of his writings, Torres received many accolades for his poetry one of which was the Palanca Award.

Torres was more than just a poet, he was also very skilled in essay writing and art critique. This was evidenced by his article writings on Philippine art where he was able to appreciate the beauty of the arts and see the social and historical realities of art making. He enjoyed the gift of describing what he saw by detailing the technical aspects and the emotions that could be derived from a work of art thus making art more popular. His essays and reviews were printed in top-ranking newspapers and journals, making him one of his generation's most renowned art critics.

Genevieve L. Asenjo: Amplifying Philippine Regional Literature

 

Genevieve L. Asenjo is one of the many outstanding voices to emerge in Philippine literature. Asenjo, an academic, prolific writer, and cultural promoter, has established a distinct presence in our country's literary scene. She addresses complex subjects like identity, feminism, regional culture, and personal memory, making her an important part in the contemporary Filipino writing.

Genevieve L. Asenjo

Genevieve L. Asenjo is a prolific Filipino author whose works are composed of fiction, poetry, and essays. Born in Antique, she writes in three languages: Filipino, Kinaray-a, and English. Her stories frequently talk about the rural landscapes and people of her native Visayas. She graduated from the University of the Philippines Visayas with a degree in communication and from De La Salle University with an MFA in creative writing. She was heavily influenced by her academic experience and her strong bond to her hometown that affected her way of writing.

Literary Works

1. Lumbay ng Dila (2010)
A novel exploring identity, migration, and the Filipino woman’s experience, Lumbay ng Dila intertwines personal and historical narratives, focusing on the complexities of loss and displacement.
2. Sa Gihapon, Palangga, Ang Uran (2009)
This collection of short stories written in Kinaray-a and Hiligaynon celebrates rural life and Visayan culture, bringing attention to love, loss, and belonging through local languages.
3. Komposo ni Dandansoy (2017)
A modern retelling of the Visayan folk song Dandansoy, this work explores themes of migration, longing, and identity, reinterpreting traditional narratives for a contemporary audience.
4. Dawata Kag Tumanon: Mga Pabugal Kag Sumpa (2011)
This poetry collection, written in Kinaray-a, reflects personal and cultural themes of love, family, and faith, with vivid imagery that evokes rural Antique.
5. The Body: Aria (2015)
A collection of essays on womanhood, desire, and the body, The Body: Aria explores feminist themes, weaving personal experiences with reflections on the female body in society.

My Thoughts: 

Although I haven't read any of her work, I'm amazed by her dedication by promoting regional dialects like Kinaray-a and by her ability of highlighting the diverse experiences of Filipinos, especially from Visayas. Her way of preserving local culture by using literature is inspiring.

'Dekada '70 by Lualhati Torres Bautista: A Voice for the Oppressed

 Lualhati Torres Bautista, was born on December 2, 1945, in Tondo, Manila, Philippines, she is a well-known writer known for her honest realism and exploration of Philippine women's issues. She graduated from Florentino Torres High School in 1962 after completing her primary school in 1958 at Emilio Jacinto primary School. Despite having started her journalism studies at the Philippine Lyceum, she left to follow her passion for writing.

 In 1983, Lualhati Bautista Published the story of “Dekada '70”. She wrote a novel surrounding the life of Amanda Bartolome, a middle-aged woman in Manila, and her middle-class family during the era of Ferdinand Marcos Sr.'s Martial Law in the 1970s.Through her writing, Bautista reveals both the personal struggles of the Bartolome family and the broader societal issues, including women's rights and Philippine history. The novel captures the complex dynamics of the time, reflecting real-life experiences and historical events in the Philippines.

 The novel voices out that women should not be viewed merely as "babae lang" or insignificant, but rather as individuals deserving of respect, recognition of their struggles, and acknowledgment of their potential and aspirations. It emphasizes that women should have the agency to think, choose, and shape their own lives, rather than obey societal expectations of what a woman should be. That's why I think Lualhati Bautista is such a great writer, she incorporates these themes in her novel, making it a bridge to understanding Filipino women and their struggles in a patriarchal society.

 In Dekada '70, Bautista highlights the importance of recognizing our own privileges. Not everyone grows up with the same opportunities, and privilege often shapes how we see the world. This idea is reflected in the character of Jules, Amanda's son, who undergoes a political awakening as he becomes more aware of the injustices in society. His journey mirrors Amanda's realization that the "man's world" she lives in can only change if people are willing to challenge the existing power structures.

 Bautista’s novel resonates because it invites readers to reflect on the intersectionality of different social issues. It is not only a feminist book, but it also challenges society expectations, looks at power relationships, and addresses systemic injustices.In order to create a story that is both personal and universal, Bautista cleverly combines personal experiences with more general historical and political issues. Lualhati Bautista is one of the most significant voices in Philippine literature because Dekada '70 is a monument to the bravery and determination of Filipino women in the face of injustice.

 Lualhati Bautista is an exceptional writer because of her ability to create deeply personal stories with larger societal issues, creating narratives that resonate on both an emotional and intellectual level. Her work is notable for its honesty and realistic depiction of the complicated realities of Philippine life, especially for women. The thing that truly sets Bautista apart is her ability to depict topics such as family dynamics, political oppression, and gender injustice in a way that is both personal and universal. She builds a bridge to comprehend the intricate details of Filipino society through her writing, particularly with regard to social justice and women's rights. Her works have left a long legacy, but so has the influence she had on the use of literature to examine and evaluate a country's past setbacks and victories.

Zoilo M. Galang: The First English-Language Kapampangan Novelist

Zoilo M. Galang, The Kapampangan Encyclopedist

    Zoilo M. Galang (1895-1968), a filipino novelist born in Bacolor, Pampanga. An encyclopedist and the first English-language Filipino novelist, he grew up in a bucolic hamlet known for its writers and artists. He grew up in a Spanish-influenced environment but was raised and became aware of American culture. He attended Bacolor Elementary School before moving to Manila to attend the Escuela de Derecho, the country's premier legal school, from which he graduated in 1919. As a self-starter, he taught himself typing and stenography in both English and Spanish. Attracted to the English language, he enrolled in special classes at the University of the Philippines in 1925 before moving on to Columbia University to complete his studies in literature.

    After that, Galang began writing volumes of fiction, biography, and philosophy. Some of his early poems were published in the Kapampangan journal "E Mngabiran". He was the one who wrote the first English novel written by a Filipino, "A Child of Sorrow". This was later adapted into a film in 1930. Other significant works include "Nadia", "For Dreams Must Die", "Springtime", "Leaders of the Philippines", "Glimpse of the Worlds", "Life and Success", "Master of Destiny", "Unisophy", and "Barrio Life".

    

    "A Child of Sorrow" (1921), Galang's most celebrated work, is widely regarded as the first novel written in Filipino. This seminal novel, set during the Philippine-American War, offers a moving portrayal of ordinary Filipinos' struggles and desires. The novel's narrative is infused with themes of love, sacrifice, and national identity, capturing the emotional and social upheaval of the time. Galang's vivid storytelling and rich character development give readers a glimpse into the Filipino experience during a watershed moment in the country's history.

" A Child of Sorrow"

    Zoilo M. Galang is a significant figure in Philippine literature for his major contributions in writing the first Filipino novel in English and advancing the Filipino language in literature. Exploring the themes of national identity, social justice, and the human condition in Filipino language has inspired upcoming writers to explore and honor their cultural heritage in their native tongue. The works of Galang offer understanding of the historical and cultural background of early 20th century Filipino society, serving as a source of inspiration for readers and writers alike.

Patricia Chanco Evangelista: The Voice Of The Unheard

    In the world of journalism, few voices resonate conviction, and unwavering commitment to truth as that of Patricia Chanco Evangelista. An acclaimed journalist, documentarian, and advocate, Evangelista has carved a path defined by her dedication to human rights, storytelling, and giving a voice to those who are unheard. I find Her work, often characterized by its raw honesty, and thus earning recognition in both local, and international, making her one of the most influential figures in contemporary journalism.

A Journalist Born In the Storm

    Evangelista was born in the Philippines, a nation known for its complicated colonial history, political instability and socioeconomic inequality. As soon as she born she was captivated to the power of words and storytelling. Though her career in journalism started to take shape in her adolescence, her rise to fame came from winning the London 2004 International Public Speaking Competition giving the speech "Blonde and Blue-eyed".

    In her speech, Evangelista discussed identity, colonialism, and the intricate details of being a Pilipino. At just 19 years old, her passion, and intellect made her a national symbol of hope. She articulated the often unspoken pain and pride of a generation trying to reconcile their national identity with the world. Her message signifies that the "Filipino's spirit is not defined by western ideals, but it is their own resilience and identity".

    What sets Evangelista apart is her unwavering dedication to those who are often unheard. As a journalist, she has continuously focused on the stories of the communities, whether they are victims of human rights abuse, survivors of natural disasters, or affected by poverty and inequality.

Fearless Storytelling

    During the war on drugs under President Duterte's administration, Evangelista was among the few journalist who dared to expose the grim reality of extrajudicial killings. Her reporting for "Rappler", the Philippines' groundbreaking digital news site, took readers into the homes and streets where blood was spilled, offering stories behind the TV. Her documentary series "Impunity", stands as a testament to the lives lost and the families left behind, presenting a portrayal of the brutality that the President Duterte allowed.

    Despite the gravity of the stories she tells, Evangelista remains humble. She often shifts the focus away from herself, insisting that the real heroes are the individual whose stories she has the pride to share. She has described herself as simply the "messenger, a conduit for the voices of the oppressed, the forgotten, the silenced, and the unheard.

Notable Work

In 2023, a year after President Rodrigo Duterte's reign, Patricia published her most powerful and deeply controversial work entitled "Some People Need Killing: A Memoir of Murder in My Country". The book further explored the Philippines' war on drugs, a campaign that saw tens of thousand of extrajudicial killing under President Duterte's name. Evangelista, who spend years covering this acts, delivers a fearless account of the lives' cost on that war.

Through detailed interview and first hand observation, Evangelista captures the agony, grief, and the trauma that police brutality had cause on ordinary Filipinos. but Her memoir is not just a documentation of brutality, it is also an indictment of the systems that allowed to it to flourish. She holds power accountable, questioning the wrongs which were these unfair, and unjust killing.

A Legacy of Advocacy

Beyond her journalistic journey, Patricia Evangelista is a fierce advocate for freedom of the press. In a country where journalist often face threats, intimidation, and violence. she has been vocal about the need to protect the rights of journalist to report with freedom and without fear, and despite the gravity of the stories she tells.

Still Evangelista remain remarkably humble, often shifting the attention to us, the people, insisting the real heroes are the individuals who remains oppressed, forgotten, silenced, and unheard. But through her works as a journalist she shines light to those who aren't given a chance to speak.

National Philippine Artist for Literature (1976): Nick Joaquin

Quijano de Manila: Nick Joaquin

Antonio Reyes Enriquez : A Filipino Contemporary Artist from Mindanao

                              

                             Antonio Reyes Enriquez was born in Barangay Labuan, Zamboanga City (Mindanao Region) in 1936. Enriquez’s parents sent him to a university in Manila so that he could pursue his dream of studying medicine, but he also left  after a few years and didn’t graduate. Later, he worked at a variety of occupations, including writing news articles and other features for different newspapers and magazines. In Cotabato, he also started working for a surveying company, where he gained expertise that helped him create the settings and characters for his book “Surveyors of the Liguasan Marsh”. After receiving an award of a writing fellowship, it brought him to Siliman University and earned a liberal degree in creative writing. The Palanca award is considered as the most prestigious award for literature in the Philippines and in 1982 and 1993, Enriquez won the Don Carlos Palanca Memorial grand prize for Literature. Same as in 1996, he was known with the Pambansang Alagad ni Balagtas Award for Fiction in English by the Unyon ng mga Manunulat ng Pilipinas (UMPIL) or Writer’s Union of the Philippines. In 2000, he was presented by the Thai royal family with the S.E.A Write Award in Bangkok, Thailand. Enriquez’s novels and short stories have been published both in the Philippines and abroad. The majority of his works were widely acclaimed worldwide, and some of his written short stories were translated into Korean and German languages. 

The dedication of this man made his name be remembered through his works. Here are mostly works of Enriquez: “Dance a white horse to sleep” in 1977 a short story, “ Surveyors of the Liguasan Marsh” in 1981 a novel which somewhat reflects the culture of Zamboanga into his work, “The Night I cry” in 1989, “The Living and the Dead: A Novel” in 1994, “The Unseen War and Other tales from Mindanao” in 1996, “Subuanons” in 1999, “The Voice from Sumisip & Four Short Stories” in 2003, “Samboangan: The Cult of War” in 2006, “The Activist” and “The Survivor” in 2011, and lastly “Twice-told Subanon Tales” in 2013. With all of his writing I noticed that it is much focused on the culture and events that happened inside the community of Enriquez’s. And how it is said or written like a witness.

“Green Sanctuary” is one of  Enriquez’s novel that pertains and explores the complex of relationships and conflicts that exist in the Philippines between the environment and the people. Mindanao is known for its rich biodiversity and cultural diversity. The story focuses on people’s lives who inhabit the region, especially the relationship between indigenous groups and the natural environment. He examines topics like ecological preservation, cultural legacy, and the effects of modernization and deforestation, using vivid descriptions.” Struggles” belongs to the central theme of this novel to maintain the balance of development and environmental conversation. Characters face various challenges like making a choice that navigates the pressure of economic necessities and protesting or protecting their traditional way of living and the environment. The resilience and adaptability of the human spirit are emphasized in his literature, along with the beauty and fragility of the natural environment. The novel celebrates the distinctive cultural landscape of Mindanao while also giving a moving commentary on the environmental problems confronting the Philippines. 

From that summarization of his novel “Green Sanctuary” it clarifies the cultural and social literary work which approaches with the stories of criticism for us to understand the effect of a literary work upon its original readers. Socialization is also involved that is explored with the relationship between the author and his society. Sanctuary means peace,protection and safety and I think this novel seeks for the positive areas that are weighted by the problems of their society that even though they have wealthy biodiversity and natural resources, the dark moments of truth don't fade in them. 

Many of Antonio Enriquez’s works are heartfelt for the community you are into for it mirrors the behaviors of the people who care about their lives. It is a privilege for me to talk about the life of Enriquez and his amazing literature. His novels and short stories should stretch out more for the society that cries burdens and hardships. Antonio Reyes Enriquez is remembered.

 

F. SIONIL JOSÉ: THE VOICE OF THE PHILIPPINE SOCIAL JUSTICE

"We write from life and call it literature, and literature lives
 because we are in it."

    Francisco Sionil José, born on December 3, 1924, in Rosales, Pangasinan, is a key figure in Philippine Literature. His works, reflecting the complexities of Filipino society, have greatly influenced the country's literary scene. Growing up in a modest family, Jose faced social and economic challenges that deeply informed his writing. His early experiences in Rosales, where his father was a farmer and his mother a teacher, gave him a strong sense of realism and empathy in his stories.

    After World War II, F. Sionil José attended the University of Santo Tomas but left to focus writing and journalism in Manila. He quickly became involved in editing various publications, started his own publishing house, and founded the Philippine branch of PEN, an international writers' organization. Though he didn't complete his formal education, his experiences in Manila's literary scene greatly shaped his work. 

Works

    His novels, particularly the Rosales Saga, reflect his commitment to social justice and often draw on themes from José Rizal's writings. It is a series of five novels that explore Philippine history and society through the Rosales family. 

The Rosales series includes five novels that chronologically explore the Samson family's story and the Philippine socio-political landscape. "Po-on" is set during the Philippine-American War and is the first novel in the series, focusing on the Samson family's struggles. "Tree", the second novel, follows the unnamed grandson of Don Jacinto and depicts the hardships faced by Filipino peasants under Spanish rule. "My Brother, My Executioner", the third novel, is set in the 1950s and details Luis Asperri's conflict between his privileged position and the Hukbalahap rebellion. "The Pretenders", the fourth novel, tells the story of Antonio Samson, an Ilustrado who struggles with his past and ultimately takes his own life. The final novel, "Mass", moves to the 1970s and follows Pepe Samson, Antonio’s illegitimate son, who joins a revolutionary group and leaves Manila to support the guerrillas. 

             

    Each novel provides a different parts of Filipino history and society, from the Samson family's experiences during the Philippine-American War to the personal and social challenges in later times. 

Together, they showed on how the Philippines changed over time through different historical periods.

His other works similar to the novel, "Rosales Saga" is titled "Dusk".

 "Dusk" is a novel, set in the late 19th century and tells the story of a tenant family forced to leave their village due to social and political upheaval. They relocate to the small town of Rosales, where they face new struggles as they attempt to rebuild their lives. The novel explores themes of displacement, resilience, and the impact of societal changes on individuals and families. Through their experiences, José paints a vivid picture of the difficulties faced by those caught in the turmoil of their time.

Through the protagonist's experiences, José examines the moral and ethical challenges faced by individuals in a society dealing with its own complexities and injustices.

Awards

He has garnered numerous prestigious awards throughout his illustrious career reflecting his profound impact on literature. His notable accolades include the National Artist for Literature Award in 1997, none of the honors for a Filipino writer, recognizing his exceptional contributions to the country's heritage. Additionally, he received the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Journalism, Literature, and Creative Communication Arts in 1991, highlighting his commitment to social justice and insightful storytelling. 

Jose's work has been highly recognized by the Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature. He won for his short story "The God Sealer" in 1959,  

and then for "Waywaya" and  "Arbol de Fuego (Firetree)" in 1979 and 1980. His novel "Mass" earned him an award in 1981, and his essay "A Scenario for Philippine Resistance" also received an award in 1979 These awards highlight Jose's influence and the importance of stories in Philippine literature.

    Thoughts

    Francisco Sionil José is a highly impactful writer especially in the Philippines whose stories offer a clear view of Filipino society. His focus on real-life issues such as corruption and social injustices, combined with his engaging storytelling makes his work both compelling and meaningful. His ability to address social problems through relatable characters and gripping plots has earned him a respected place in literature, helping readers understand and reflect on important societal challenges especially to the current situation in the Philippines. 

References

https://tl.wikipedia.org/wiki/F._Sionil_Jos%C3%A9

https://up.edu.ph/celebrating-the-life-of-national-artist-f-sionil-jose-97/

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/88800/dusk-by-f-sionil-jose/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Rosales_Saga