ALABEL, Sarangani (MindaNews / 24 March) – The Sarangani Writers League (SWL) recently welcomed its new members, all of them women, for helping develop the literary community in the province of Sarangani.
The new members successfully navigated the application process, fulfilled all requirements, and surpassed the evaluation criteria: Catherine R. Discorson, Mariele M. Gallego, and Eva Mae Zamora from the municipality of Alabel; Cathrina K. Lumbos from Malapatan; Ross Charlotte D. Gersava, Henri Marie C. Belimac, and Glee Lianne L. Elem from Glan; Angelica B. Cawag and Imie A. Portabes from Malungon; and Princess Allyssa A. Corpuz and Kristal Gane C. Mendoza from Kiamba.
SWL is an organization of literary writers and enthusiasts from Sarangani, set up in 2017 as one of the clusters of SOX Writers, the umbrella group for the provincial and city organizations of writers in Region 12 or what is popularly referred to as Socsksargen, the region comprising South Cotabato, North Cotabato, Sarangani and Sultan Kudarat provinces and the cities of General Santos, Koronadal, Tacurong and Kidapawan. The organization initiates activities that encourage the creation, propagation, development, and appreciation of literature in the province in collaboration with individuals, private groups, and government agencies.
Young writers from Sarangani: (L to R) Genory Vanz Alfasain, Xyra Jo Musa Apolinar and MJ Cagumbay Tumamac pose for a souvenir photo at the Tambayang Pambata booth of the Philippine Book Festival in Davao on 20 August 2023. MindaNews photo by CAROLYN O. ARGUILLAS
“At SWL, our goal is to cultivate a community of high-quality members who can effect meaningful change in Sarangani. We support our members in achieving their writing ambitions and empower them to contribute to their communities in their unique ways. We are always open to collaborations that can foster the growth and development of the province’s literary community,” said SWL Executive Director Genory Vanz S. Alfasain.
Last month, SWL conducted an online orientation for its new members. The event was attended by members who generously shared their experiences and insights about being part of the organization.
“From the very beginning, SWL has been a big organization to me. Honestly, I didn’t expect that I would become a part of it. That’s why I am very thankful for the opportunity they have given me. I love being surrounded by people of high intellect and engaging in serious discussions. I believe I am seeking improvement, which is why I want to challenge myself. I also want to advance my skills and gain experiences that will allow me to grow as a person,” said Eva Mae Zamora, a new member based in Alabel.
“I believe that once I gain additional experience in this organization, I would like to progress and share my knowledge, inspiring others, especially those who appreciate the literary landscape in our hometown. I also hope that my skills, perseverance, and dedication will undoubtedly contribute to our beloved Sarangani Province,” she shared.
“Being fascinated with literature, it is nice to surround oneself with people who share the same impression, much more with people with similar roots—and this is what motivated me to join SWL. I believe I can personally and creatively grow in SWL,” said Ross Charlotte D. Gersava.
As an individual whose roots trace back to the seashores of Glan, she feels a deep connection to the culture she was raised in. She believes that the best way to share this remarkable aspect of Sarangani with others is through writing. She aspires to immortalize Sarangani and its people through her written words.
Gersava is looking forward to publishing the prose poetry from her undergraduate thesis at UP Mindanao. She believes that this will be an excellent initial step in representing Sarangani through her writings.
SWL also named its first batch of honorary members: Michelle L. Solon of Kiamba; Ariel C. Lalisan, Rhoda May B. Ebad and Evan L. Campos, all of Alabel, Eric Gerard H. Nebran and Elizabeth N. Ramos of Maitum, Joseph A. Hulguin and Mifume B. Amparo of Glan, Rossel Audencial-Mangaron of Malapatan), and John Jerson P. Constantino of Malungon.
These honorary members have significantly contributed to the production and promotion of literature in Sarangani.
“Their unique literary voices and educational initiatives have enriched the province’s cultural fabric and helped advance appreciation for literature. They continue to make a profound impact through their active involvement in various projects, pushing the boundaries of literature and learning. Open to collaborations, they welcome the opportunity to work with others to further enrich Sarangani’s literary scene,” Alfasain said.
“I am honored to be a part of SWL because I know that this organization has been excelling in the field of literature, not only in our province but also nationwide. I’m looking forward to making a difference with the team through writing,” said honorary member Ebad.
“I look forward to more literary productions from Sarangani and by extension, SOX. I’ve always hoped that there’d be more of a collective effort to forward the region’s identity to complement the individual successes of people who have achieved some form of recognition on the national scene. I’m hoping that we can create a nurturing and supportive environment for aspiring writers to grow together,” Nebran said.
“I eagerly anticipate my role as an honorary member of SWL. I am keen to forge new partnerships to help achieve the organization’s goals, thereby nurturing the artistic talents of Sarangan learners. I am excited for the journey ahead,” Constantino said.
SWL persistently motivates its members to write and seek publication opportunities. The organization has an exciting line-up of projects for 2024, which includes the debut of the Sarangani Anthology and the hosting of the annual SOX Zine Festival. (MindaNews)
