BY: VALERIE ANN DISMAYA
Not everyone expresses emotions through speech—some prefer to put their thoughts and feelings into poems, stories, or essays.
Every April, the Philippines celebrates Literature Month to honor these creative expressions and connect more deeply with our cultural identity.
Literature Month was officially declared through Proclamation No. 968, signed in 2015.
The celebration promotes the appreciation of literary arts and encourages Filipinos, especially the youth, to reconnect with the richness of our language and culture.
Spearheaded by the Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, the month features various activities like literary contests, poetry readings, book launches, workshops, and forums.
These events aim to showcase both new writers and classic literary works that deserve recognition.
April was chosen for the celebration as it also marks the birth month of Francisco “Balagtas” Baltazar, one of the country’s most iconic poets.
His renowned work Florante at Laura remains a cornerstone of Filipino literature.
Literature is more than just artistic writing—it is a mirror of the times, a reflection of our struggles, and a vessel for our collective memory.
Through stories and verses, our history and identity live on.
Literature Month is not just for writers; it’s for every Filipino who cherishes language, culture, and meaningful expression.
