The Sarangani Writers League (SWL) has welcomed its new set of members, including honorary members for 2024, expressing delight to introduce its newest members, who showed interest in joining SWL to help contribute to the development of the literary community in Sarangani.

The new batch of members comprises entirely young women, each brimming with enthusiasm to delve deeper into the art of writing, connect with fellow writers and literary enthusiasts, and make a meaningful contribution to Sarangani's vibrant literary community.

They have successfully navigated the application process, fulfilled all requirements, and surpassed the evaluation criteria that are required for members.

From the Municipality of Alabel: Catherine R. Discorson, Mariele M. Gallego, and Eva Mae Zamora; from the Municipality of Malapatan: Cathrina K. Lumbos; from the Municipality of Glan: Ross Charlotte D. Gersava, Henri Marie C. Belimac, and Glee Lianne L. Elem; from the Municipality of Malungon: Angelica B. Cawag and Imie A. Portabes; and from the Municipality of Kiamba: Princess Allyssa A. Corpuz and Kristal Gane C. Mendoza.

“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 own 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.

SWL conducted an online orientation on February 24, 2024, for its new members. This event was attended by existing members who generously shared their experiences and insights about being part of this organization. SWL eagerly anticipates the showcasing of their works. The organization believes that their contributions will significantly advance the literary community in Sarangani.

“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.

For an individual whose roots can be traced back to the shorelines of Glan, Gersava surely felt that deep connection to the culture she was raised in. According to her, the best way to share the remarkable aspects of Sarangani with others is through writing, as she aspires to immortalize Sarangani and its people through her written words.

She looks 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 is also pleased to welcome the first batch of honorary members, who are distinguished and accomplished luminaries in their own rights. They have, even to this day, continuously and 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.

They are: Michelle L. Solon (Kiamba), Ariel C. Lalisan (Alabel), Rhoda May B. Ebad (Alabel), Evan L. Campos (Alabel), Eric Gerard H. Nebran (Maitum), Elizabeth N. Ramos (Maitum), Joseph A. Hulguin (Glan), Mifume B. Amparo (Glan), Rossel Audencial-Mangaron (Malapatan), and John Jerson P. Constantino (Malungon).

“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 Rhoda May B. 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,” Eric Gerard H. 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,” said John Jerson P. Constantino

As a member of the DepEd family, Constantino brings the perspective of the institution's vision and mission, aligning it with the objectives of the organization to enhance the artistic endeavors of Sarangan Writers. He is dedicated to providing mentorship, offering guidance, and supporting individuals to help them reach their fullest potential. Given the opportunity, Constantino is committed to contributing his expertise and passion to further the organization's mission and positively impact Sarangani's artistic community."

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. 

SWL is the organization of literary writers and enthusiasts from Sarangani Province. It was created in 2017 as one of the clusters of SOX Writers, the umbrella group for the provincial and city organizations of writers in the SOCCSKSARGEN Region.

Since then, SWL has conducted activities that encourage the creation, propagation, development, and appreciation of literature in the province in collaboration with individuals, private groups, and government agencies. (Genory Vanz Alfasain/Voice of the Youth Network/PIA SarGen)