More than 300 writers, educators, artists, and public servants were recognized during the 2nd Gawad Pamana ng Pluma International, held on May 31, 2026, at the Diamond Ballroom of Supreme Hotel Convention Plaza.
Despite heavy rains across the city, the event proceeded with a strong turnout of participants and guests, while audiences from across the Philippines and abroad joined through a live online broadcast via M.E. Publications’ official Facebook page.
Organized by KApisanan ng mg Filipinong Awtor at Manunulat sa Pilipinas, Inc. (KAFAMPI), Association of Social Sciences Educators for Treasures and Traditions (ASSETT) of the Philippines, Inc., and M.E Publications, the ceremony highlighted achievements in Filipino literature, education, cultural leadership, and public service.
Literary Excellence Recognized
A major highlight of the program was the conferment of the Gawad Tugatog ng Akdang Tuluyan (Seal of Literary Excellence in Prose Writing) and the Gawad Tugatog ng Panulaan (Seal of Literary Excellence in Poetry Writing), prestigious distinctions awarded every three years to outstanding Filipino writers.
A total of 188 awardees were recognized for their contributions to contemporary Filipino literature.
Speeches from cultural leaders including M.E Publications Director Eleuteria “Helen” Sarita, and ASSETT of the Philippines President Dr. Joseph Cristobal, emphasized the importance of literature in shaping identity, education, and national consciousness.
Leadership and Cultural Service
The afternoon session featured messages from institutional leaders and local officials, including Sara, Iloilo Mayor Jon “Onick” Nequia Aying, Banate, Iloilo Mayor Peter Paul T. Gonzales, Balamban, Cebu Mayor Amos Edwin C. Cabahug, La Union Board Member Atty. Ernersto V. Rafon, and BARMM Deputy Minister Prof. Eddie Mapag Alih.
Speakers highlighted the role of education, governance, and cultural advocacy in strengthening communities.
The Gawad Sulo ng Pamumuno recognized individuals in leadership and education, with Atty. Robert John J. Doneza and Dr. Michele J. Dulay emphasizing service-oriented leadership during their acceptance remarks.
Literary Awards and Performances
The evening program transitioned into fellowship and the presentation of the 1st Pamana ng Pluma Literary Awards, which honored works in both Filipino and English.
In the Filipino category, “Marka” by Princess S. Calacala received First Prize, while “Agunyas ng Amag” by Eugene Gebrielle A. Nacino earned Second Prize, and no winner for the Third Prize. Honorable Mentions were awarded to Jermaine Emil L. Unas’ “Salimuot sa Tasa ng Kape”, Jude Alexander M. Punzalan’s “Pagitan ng mga Tinig”, and Romeo G. Balonzo, Jr.’s “Mga Panaghoy ni Dumagat Remontado”.
In the English category, no winner for the First Prize, while “The Scarcity Beast” by Ena Marion D. Tuano received Second Prize, and “The Anatomy of a Sinking Chair” by Ma. Jenelle B. De Martin earned Third Prize. Honorable Mentions were awarded to Alberto C. Felisilda, Jr.’s “When Virtue is Silenced”, Vince Benedict A. Tanjay’s “The Remainder”, and Dave L. Rellanos’ “A Love So Blind”.
The Kayaw di Umili Ensemble also performed traditional Cordilleran dances, adding a cultural dimension to the evening program.
Cultural Recognition and Closing
The Gawad Sulo segment honored individuals and institutions contributing to language, education, and the arts.
Among the recipients was KWF’s Chief Commissioner Atty. Marites A. Barrios-Taran, who received the Gawad Sulo sa Pagtaguyod ng Wika for her dedication to language preservation and advocacy. The Liwayway Magazine received the Gawad Sulo ng Panitikan, while SUC President Prof. Charisma S. Ututalum of Sulu State University, and University President Dr. Elbert Manangan Galas of Pangasinan State University were recognized through the Gawad Tanglaw ng Akademya for transformative educational leadership.
The event concluded with a communal performance led by the Kayaw di Umili Ensemble, followed by closing remarks emphasizing the importance of sustaining Filipino literature and cultural heritage.
The program ended with a message of continuity and cultural pride, underscoring literature as a vital force in education, identity, and nation-building.
Also Read- https://ventsmagazine.uk/2026/06/20/education-leadership-and-cultural-stewardship-at-the-2nd-gawad-pamana-ng-pluma-international/
