The Silliman University National Writers Workshop (SUNWW), the oldest creative writing workshop in Asia, returns for its 63rd year from June 9 to 20 at Silliman University, Dumaguete City.
Ten emerging writers from across the Philippines have been selected as fellows in the categories of poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, and “balak” following a rigorous selection process.
This year’s fellows represent a diverse literary and geographic spectrum, with participants coming from Davao, Bacolod, Isabela, Cagayan de Oro, Quezon City, Las Piñas, South Cotabato, and San Fernando, Cebu.
The 63rd SUNWW fellows are: Alter Hofileña, Davao City; Jose Velando Ogatis, Las Piñas City; and Kiko Caramat, Quezon City for poetry; Christina Mirasol Sayson, Bacolod City; Allene Allanigue, Las Piñas City; and Kadi Serafica, Isabela for fiction; Adelle Chua, Quezon City; Aimee Faunillan Abella, Cagayan de Oro; and Jennie Arado, South Cotabato for creative nonfiction; and Leonel Quillo, San Fernando, Cebu for “balak.”
The SUNWW remains a cornerstone of literary mentorship and innovation in the Philippines. The workshop continues to uphold its mission of cultivating the next generation of Filipino writers across languages and forms.
This year’s distinguished panelists include Dinah Roma, Jose Wendell Capili, Ian Fermin Casocot, Susan Lara, Ino Manalo, Grace Monte de Ramos, and Marjorie Evasco.
The workshop has also opened its call for volunteers and auditors. For more updates and information on upcoming events, follow the official Facebook page: The Silliman University National Writers Workshop
As part of the 63rd Silliman Univeristy National Writers Workshop, the book, Vital Signs: Philippine Short Stories on Healing, a groundbreaking anthology that brings together stories of illness, recovery, and resilience from diverse Filipino perspectives, is set to be launched on Thursday, June 19 at 3 p.m. at the Romeo Ariniego Gallery, in partnership with the Department of English and Literature and the Edilberto and Edith Tiempo Creative Writing Center.
Edited by renowned poet, educator, and Outstanding Sillimanian awardee Dr. Marjorie Evasco and best-selling author and pediatric neurosurgeon Dr. Ronnie E. Baticulon, the anthology features 13 compelling narratives that provide insight into the lives of doctors, nurses, patients, caregivers, and faith healers; and explore how love, hope, and devotion can shape the Filipino experience of illness and wellness.
Published by Milflores Publishing, Vital Signs: Philippine Short Stories on Healing blends the literary and the medical, making space for empathy, reflection, and storytelling in the face of suffering and uncertainty.
The launch program includes readings from contributors and fellows of the Silliman University National Writers Workshop, Leo Mamicpic, Susan Lara, Dr. Justine Yu, and Dr. Stephanie Miaco. Guests will also hear messages from the editors, Atty. Andrea Pasion-Flores of Milflores Publishing, and representatives from Silliman University, including Dr. Joan Generoso, Dr. Alana Lelani Narciso, Kaycee Melon, and D.M. Reyes.
The event is free and open to the public and will coincide with an exhibition of artworks from the collection of the late Dr. Romeo Ariniego housed at the gallery that bears his name. | NWI
