MANILA, (PIA) — The National Literature Month (NLM) 2025 kicked off this April under the theme “Sikad Panitikan: Kultura at Panitikan ng Kaunlaran,” emphasizing the importance of literature in shaping identity and cultural richness for all Filipinos.
This annual celebration is organized by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), the Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino (KWF), and the National Book Development Board (NBDB), as established by Proclamation No. 968 signed in 2015, according to Public Affairs and Information Office Head Rene Napeñas.
“Throughout the month, various activities will promote literature’s pivotal role in cultural development,” Napeñas said.
“Sikad” has multiple meanings derived from our regional languages. Primarily, it translates to “rebound” in English. It can also refer to a strong kick or a firm stance for support, conveying a sense of energy. Additionally, Sikad can also be an event name, as seen in the context of an academic opening.
Among the events that led to NLM is the Philippine Book Festival, which ran from March 13 to 16, marking the initial events leading up to the NLM.
Additionally, the “Ligligan Poesiyang Makuyad” took place on March 20-21 in Pampanga, featuring workshops on children’s stories, poetry writing, and literary competitions.
The KWF led the opening of NLM on April 2, coinciding with “Araw ni Balagtas” (Balagtas Day). A flower-laying ceremony was held at the Balagtas Garden in Orion, Bataan, as well as at literary monuments in Pandacan, Manila, and Balagtas, Bulacan.
An online lecture will follow on April 3, along with a weekly Zoom forum streamed on the official KWF Facebook every Monday.
Various literary workshops and discussions will take place across the country, including the National Artists Reads series on April 22, featuring esteemed National Artists like Cirilio Bautista and F. Sionil Jose in University of the Philippines-Baguio, and Alejandro Roces and Rolando Tinio at the University of Science and Technology Southern Philippines in Cagayan de Oro.
A special “Literatour” will take place in Manila on May 3, showcasing the works of National Artist Nick Joaquin. This event is part of the ongoing National Artists Reads (NA Reads) series, which aims to celebrate the contributions of prominent figures in Philippine literature.
Participants can expect an engaging exploration of Joaquin’s literary legacy, highlighting his profound impact on Filipino culture.
In addition, a theatrical performance titled “Klasikal” will be held at Bicol University, featuring the works of National Artist Severino Montano. This performance will breathe life into Montano’s celebrated writings, offering audiences a unique opportunity to experience his artistry firsthand. The dates for this event are April 24, 25, and 28, 2025.
Both events reflect a commitment to fostering appreciation for Philippine literature and its esteemed authors, encouraging deeper engagement with the nation’s cultural heritage. Attendees can look forward to insightful discussions and performances that celebrate the richness of Filipino storytelling.
Moreover, the KWF will host the annual Araw ng Parangal on April 28 to honor distinguished contributors in the literary field.
Competitions such as the Timpalak Florentino Hornedo in Batanes and the 2nd Mindanaoan Creative Non-Fiction Writing Competition will also engage writers nationwide.
The month will feature diverse activities, including the Panitikolab workshops in Aklan on April 22 and General Santos City on April 23, and the Ateneo Foundational Lecture and Literary Fair at Ateneo de Manila University on April 24, focusing on the evolution of Philippine literary traditions since 1946.
The Unyon ng mga Manunulat sa Pilipinas (Writers’ Union of the Philippines) Congress on April 26 at UP Diliman in Quezon City will address contemporary literary issues, culminating in the Gawad Pambansang Alagad ni Balagtas for outstanding literary achievements, Gawad Paz Marquez Benitez for outstanding literary teachers, and Gawad Pedro Bucaneg for recognized literary groups.
Modern storytelling will also be showcased with “Sikad FunnyTikan,” presented by SPIT Manila at the Tanghalang Metropolitan in Manila on April 11.
As the NLM progresses into May, activities will continue, including a virtual workshop aimed at reviving the Hiligaynon “komposo,” a traditional narrative song, with the event titled: “Timpalak Komposo: Sambuwa Sa Pagsulat Kag Pagkanta Sang Komposo” (JCO/PIA-NCR)
