Cirilo Bautista: The Poet Who Gave to the Filipino Soul
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The Early Years: A scholar with a Vision
Born on July 9, 1941, in Manila, Cirilo F. Bautista began his journey into literature at an early age. Even as a student at the University of Santo Tomas, where he earned his bachelor's degree in literature, his passion for poetry was evident. Later on, he earned his master's degree in literature from St. Louis University in Baguio, and his doctorate in language and literature from De Lasalle University.
The Trilogy of Saint Lazarus: A Monumental Work
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Cirilo F. Bautista’s most iconic work, The Trilogy of Saint Lazarus, is a sweeping epic that explores the Filipino experience through the lens of colonialism, identity, and revolution. Comprising three books—Archipelago, Telex Moon, and Sunlight on Broken Stones—the trilogy was written over the course of decades and has been hailed as a monumental achievement in Philippine literature.
In an interview, Bautista once said, "I wanted to tell the story of my people. To put into words what we went through, and what we are still going through." His dedication to capturing the Filipino experience was relentless, crafting each line with meticulous care to ensure that his people’s story was told authentically.
A Mentor to Many: Bautista the Educator
Cirilo F. Bautista was not only a brilliant writer but also an outstanding educator. He spent years as a professor at De La Salle University, where he mentored aspiring writers and scholars. His deep knowledge of language and literature made him one of the most respected figures in the Filipino academic community. Students recall him as a teacher who was patient, passionate, and precise, always pushing them to discover their unique talents
In an interview with one of his students, who is now a prominent writer, she shared, "Sir Cirilo taught us to be unafraid of big ideas. He challenged us to think deeply, to question history, and to see the beauty in the world’s chaos. His lessons weren’t just about writing—they were about life."
Influences and Inspirations: The Global and Local Perspective
Cirilo F. Bautista's works reflect a deep engagement with both Western literary traditions and Filipino culture. He was heavily influenced by José Rizal, William Shakespeare, and T.S. Eliot, blending these influences with local themes to create something uniquely Filipino yet universal. His works resonate not only with Filipino readers but with anyone seeking to understand the human experience.
Awards and Recognition: The Pinnacle of a Career
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Conclusion: A Legacy Beyond Words
Cirilo F. Bautista's work shows that literature goes beyond being an art—it serves as a powerful tool for transformation and social impact. He not only shaped Filipino literature but also left a lasting impact on the nation's shared identity. His legacy continues to inspire both readers and writers, reminding us of the power of words to heal, provoke, and transform.
As we reflect on his life and works, we are reminded of one of his most famous lines: "To be human is to suffer. To write is to redeem that suffering." For Bautista, writing was not just an act of expression but a way to make sense of the world and, ultimately, to redeem it.
Written by: Bridjit Ann C. Serrano
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