National Literature Month

 Literature as instrument for peace

By Earl D.C. Bracamonte 

The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) advocates for peace in this year's celebration of the National Literature Month (NLM). Together with the Komisyon ng Wikang Filipino (KWF) and the National Book Development Board (NBDB), the NLM is celebrated annually in April by virtue of Presidential Proclamation No. 968 that was signed in 2015.

"We must spread literary works so that they reach our countrymen and receive/share the message of peace. Literature could ignite wars, but it could also be an instrument for peace," intimated KWF chairman Dr. Arthur Casanova, during a press briefing at the Fort Santiago in intramuros, Manila.

Under the supervision of the KWF, Araw ni Balagtas was successfully commemorated las April 2 in three areas: Balagtas in Bulacan, Pandacan in Manila, and Orion in Bataan. April 2nd was declared as Francisco "Balagtas" Balthazar Day by former president Fidel V. Ramos through Presidential Proclamation No. 964. The edict encourages nationwide programs and activities that celebrates Balagtas' contribution to Philippines Literature and nationalism. This year marks the 236th year of remembering Balagtas.

"Any endeavor won't succeed if support is wanting. We can attain progress through peace," concurred NCCA executive director Oscar Casaysay, in his message.

The ongoing discourse will encourage the development of new literary forms, ideas, and expressions through the conduct of forums and seminars; as well as discover new literary artists through the conduct of performances and workshops where they can express and exhibit their works and talent.

To illustrate the point, members of Titik Poetry - Verlin Santos and Kid Leviste - an art collective from Cavite, presented a few spoken word pieces. While chanteuse Maan Chua regaled attendees with her poignant rendition of "Sarimanok." Chua is also the voice behind "Sayaw," the upbeat tune used in performing the Unity Dance all over the archipelago.

Other events earmarked for the NLM 2024 celebration include the Timpalak ng Tulang Senyas (poetry in sign language), the Panitikolab for emerging literary groups, the Gawad Pambansang Alagad ni Balagtas, the UMPIL Congress, Bicol Reads National Artists Bienvenido Lumbera and Levi Celerio series, as well as Pinoy Reads Nick Joaquin series, and the Philippine Book Festival at the World Trade Center.

There will also be a competition in creative non-fiction. With the theme "Literature and Peace," the writing contest is intended for current college and senior high school students throughout Mindanao. Its purpose is to enable young people to demonstrate their proficiency in writing and expressing their views, thoughts, and experiences regarding the theme. The call for participants began last April 8 and the announcement of winners will be on May 18.

The NLM 2024 also aims to be a venue where indigenous and community knowledge, as well as traditions and history, will be the framework of various literary expressions and community activities. As many have observed, peace is not a destination but a way of life!