Invitation: Conversation with Filipino-American Fictionist Cecilia Manguerra Brainard

AN INVITATION

The University of Santo Tomas Center for Creative Writing and Literary Studies Invites you to 

A Conversation with  Filipino-American Fictionist

Cecilia Manguerra Brainard

February 9, 2016, Tuesday, 3:00-5:00 PM

Tangbalang TeresitaTomas, Espana, Manila

Open to the Public

~~~~

NOTE: Cecilia Manguerra Brainard is also involved in The Food Writing Workshop sponsored by the Power of Pen on Feb. 13, Sat. at the Shangri-La Manila - please see link 

http://cbrainard.blogspot.com/2015/12/power-of-pen-how-to-turn-your-love-for.html

~~~

Tags: Philippines, Philippine, Filipino, literature, author, writer, books, UST, creative writing, University of Santo Tomas, novelist, lecture, literary, program

Read also
Explosion and Drawing as Writing Exercises
Your Writing Workspace
The Importance of Keeping a Journal and My Pink Lock and Key Diary
The Importance of Sensual Writing 

Vintage pictures that help me write my novel - Paris, Barcelona, Ubec 
How to Write a Novel #1
How to Write a Novel #2

This is all for  now,

Cecilia

Research Sources and Links re Cecilia Manguerra Brainard #Philippines Literature

Some students have asked for help regarding their research.  Here are sources and links about Cecilia Manguerra Brainard or Cecilia Brainard, official website http://www.ceciliabrainard.com

Wikipedia site on Cecilia Brainard
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cecilia_Manguerra_Brainard

Other Sources about Cecilia Manguerra Brainard

* Abao, Jane Frances P. 2001. "Retelling the Stories, Rewriting the Bildungsroman: Cecilia Manguerra Brainard's When the Rainbow Goddess Wept ." Humanities Diliman (January-June)

* Adler, Les. 1996. "Acapulco at Sunset and Other Stories: A Review." Pilipinas 26 (Spring)

* Aubry, Erin. "A Child's Vision of Life During Wartime." Los Angeles Times. November 15, 1994, E-8.

* Beltran, Marie G. "Woman With Horns and Other Concerns." Filipinas (May 1995_: 29, 56.

* Casper, Leonard. "BACK-AZIMUTH Filipino Writers Abroad." Kinaadman XXVII (2005): 69-82.

Cecilia Brainard's Author's Page in Amazon

I haven't checked my Author's Page in Amazon.com for a while. The page includes my books and ebooks available at Amazon.

Here's my Author's Page - click on the url:

http://www.amazon.com/author/ceciliabrainard

Read also
YouTube Interview of Cecilia Brainard by Jeepney Books
Enotes.com - Asian American Filipino American Long Fiction
Enotes.com Brainard's Woman with Horns and Other Stories Summary
Interview with Cecilia Brainard by Allison's Book Bag
Interview of Cecilia Manguerra Brainard about Creative Writing
Interview of Cecilia Brainard "Good and Bad Reasons for Being a Writer"
Interview Cecilia Brainard for Students and Campus Bulletin, Philippines
Cecilia Manguerra Brainard Biography in Wikipedia

Tags: author, writer, Philippines, Filipino, Philippine American, novelist, literature, books #philippineliterature

This is all for now,

Cecilia

PICTURES PINAY GATHERING, 3/31/2012

Pictures taken at PINAY GATHERING, check back for more information:

OUT OF CEBU will be launched in California, 3/31/12

PINAY GATHERING
A Celebration of Women’s History Month
Honoring Filipino American Women Authors

A chance to break bread together, talk and bond with other Pinay Sisters in the community.

Saturday, March 31, 2012 12:00 Noon
Pizza Per Tutti, Pizzeria & Tratoria
4143 Lankershim Boulevard corner Acqua Vista
Toluca Lake, CA 91602 Tel 818-760-8200

Join us and celebrate the publication of two new books by our featured authors who will speak and sign their books:

Cecilia Manguerra Brainard, author of Out of Cebu: A Collection of Essays and Personal Prose. The book collects 28 essays about the author’s Cebuano ties and her pride of heritage, including colorful accounts about her mother’s family, the Cuencos, a prominent political family in Cebu. The book also includes writings about the author’s life and travels outside of Cebu. She is the author of When the Rainbow Goddess Wept: A Novel; Magdalena: A Novel; Acapulco at Sunset and Other Stories; Philippine Woman in America; Woman with Horns and Other Stories; Cecilia’s Diary, 1962-1968; and Fundamentals of Creative Writing. She has edited four anthologies: Growing Up Filipino, 1 & 2; Fiction by Filipinos in America; and Contemporary Fiction by Filipinos in America. With Edmundo Litton, she co-edited Journey of 100 Years: Reflections on the Centennial of the Philippine Independence. With Marily Orosa, she co-edited three anthologies: Behind the Walls: Life of Convent Girls; A La Carte: Food and Fiction; and Finding God: True Stories of Spiritual Encounters. With four other authors, she co-wrote Angelica’s Daughters, a Dugtungan Novel.

Ofelia V. Dirige and Aurora S. Cudal, co-authors of Global Filipino Cuisine: Healthy Recipes. First published in 2009 with the late Dr Riz A. Oades, this is a revised and expanded edition of 100 modified choices with nutrient analysis. A much-needed book for healthy eating in the community. Proceeds to cover programs and services of the FilAm Wellness Center/Kalusugan Community Services. 1419 E 8th St., National City, CA 91950. www.WebKalusugan.org / Info@WebKalusugan.org

Other authors who will attend and will sign their books include Ludy Astraquillo Ongkeko, Forty Years of Writing in America; Carina Monica Montoya (aka Carina Forsythe), Los Angeles’s Historic Filipinotown and Filipinos in Hollywood; Roselyn Estepa Ibanez, co-author, Filipinos in Carson and the South Bay; Carlene Sobrino Bonnivier, Seeking Thirst: A Novel and Autobiography of a Stranger and Myrna J. de la Paz (aka Myrna Mulhern), Abadeha: The Philippine Cinderella.

This is an ongoing program of Philippine Expressions Bookshop to reach out to the FilAm community and to increase the visibility of Filipinos in mainstream America.http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif $25.00 Lunch, inclusive of drinks, dessert and gratuities. Menu to be emailed upon reservation. Limited seating. The event is also open to male guests. The venue is owned by Pinay entrepreneur Hilda Mauro.

RSVP: linda@philippineexpressionsbookshop.com or call (310) 514-9139.

Cebuana Trailblazers in Ayala Mall, Cebu

My friend, Lynley Ocampo in Cebu, sent me this email and picture this morning. She was with her nephew, Lautrec, in the Ayala Mall. Her email refers to a picture of mine, part of the Cebuana Trailblazers group, currently exhibited by Ayala Center Cebu and The Cebu Provincial Women's commission to celebrate Women's Month 2012.
Thank you Lynley and Lautrec (who is standing in front of the picture).

<<<<<
Hi,

Lautrec and I were strolling in ayala. Look what we saw? You and some 99 other Cebuanas were named trailblazers. You belong to the first batch, along with my late aunt. Will take better pictures tomorrow.

>>>>>

Cecilia Brainard Reads March 9, 2012 in Long Beach - more info

YOU ARE INVITED:

Friday, March 9, 2012, 7-9 p.m.
Exhibit A Gallery, 555 Pine Avenue, Long Beach.

Please join us for an evening with Cecelia Manguerra Brainard. She is fresh off a book tour in the Philippines, and we are so honored that she has made time for us in her busy schedule. She is a fantastic writer and an intriguing woman.

She is the award-winning author of eight books, including the internationally-acclaimed novel, When the Rainbow Goddess Wept, Magdalena, Vigan and Other Stories, Acapulco at Sunset and Other Stories, Philippine Woman in America, Woman With Horns and Other Stories, Cecilia's Diary 1962-1968, and Fundamentals of Creative Writing. She edited four books: Growing Up Filipino I and II, Fiction by Filipinos in America, Contemporary Fiction by Filipinos in America. Cecilia co-edited six books, including Journey of 100 Years: Reflections on the Centennial of Philippine Independence; Behind the Walls: Life of Convent GirlsAla Carte: Food and Fiction, and Finding God: True Stories of Spiritual Encounters. She has also written a novel with four other women entitled, Angelica's Daughters, a Dugtungan Novel.
Her work has been translated into Finnish and Turkish; and many of her stories and articles have been widely anthologized.


Check out her website if you want to know more: http://www.ceciliabrainard.com/

About AtC(LE):

Founded by Alicia Adams and Sarah Miller in 2010, and now co-curated with the soon to be world famous Michael Buckley, After the Carnival (Literary Events) is dedicated to promoting the rich literary culture of Long Beach. Aside from hosting events highlighting the accomplishments of local writers and local presses, we enjoy inviting writers and audiences from outside the area to participate in a literary community we think is unique to Long Beach.

About Exhibit [A]:
Exhibit [A] is one of the currently active galleries under the umbrella organization Vayden Roi Galleries. Produced by Evan Kelly and Liza Mitchell, Vayden Roi Galleries is an economic development program in partnership with the Downtown Long Beach Associates. Vacant commercial spaces are used as temporary galleries and event venues. Property owners are provided limited improvements and promotion. Local businesses benefit from increased foot traffic. Residents and visitors are given a cultural destination and downtown amenity.

Invitation: PINAY GATHERING: Celebration of Women's History Month

YOU ARE INVITED...

PINAY GATHERING

A Celebration of Women's History Month
Honoring Filipino American Women Authors

A chance to break bread together, talk and bond with other Pinay Sisters in the community

Saturday, March 31, 2012 12:00 Noon
Pizza Per Tutti Pizzeria & Tratoria
4143 Lankershim Boulevard corner Acqua Vista
Toluca Lake, CA 91602 Tel 818-760-8200


Join us and celebrate the publication of two new books by our featured authors who will speak and sign their books.

Cecilia Manguerra Brainard, author of Out of Cebu: A Collection of Essays and Personal Prose. The book collects 28 essays about the author’s Cebuano ties and her pride of heritage, including colorful accounts about her mother’s family, the Cuencos, a prominent political family in Cebu. The book also includes writings about the author’s life and travels outside of Cebu. She is the author of When the Rainbow Goddess Wept: A Novel; Magdalena: A Novel; Acapulco at Sunset and Other Stories; Philippine Woman in America; Woman with Horns and Other Stories; Cecilia’s Diary, 1962-1968; and Fundamentals of Creative Writing.
She has edited four anthologies: Growing Up Filipino, 1 & 2; Fiction by Filipinos in America; and Contemporary Fiction by Filipinos in America.
With Edmundo Litton, she co-edited Journey of 100 Years: Reflections on the Centennial of the Philippine Independence. With Marily Orosa, she co-edited three anthologies: Behind the Walls: Life of Convent Girls; A La Carte: Food and Fiction; and Finding God: True Stories of Spiritual Encounters.
With four other authors, she co-wrote Angelica’s Daughters, a Dugtungan Novel.

Ofelia V. Dirige and Aurora S. Cudal, co-authors of Global Filipino Cuisine: Healthy Recipes. First published in 2009 with the late Dr Riz A. Oades,
this is a revised and expanded edition of 100 modified choices with nutrient analysis. This is a much-needed book for healthy eating in the community.
Proceeds from sales of this title will cover programs and services of the FilAm Wellness Center/Kalusugan Community Services which is located at
1419 E 8th Street., National City, CA 91950. www.WebKalusugan.org / Info@WebKalusugan.org

Other authors who will attend and will sign their books include Ludy Astraquillo Ongkeko, Forty Years of Writing in America; Carina Monica Montoya
(AKA Carina Forsythe), Los Angeles’s Historic Filipinotown; Filipinos in Hollywood and Let's Cook Adobo!, a juvenile cookbook; Roselyn Estepa Ibanez, co-author, Filipinos in Carson and the South Bay; and Carlene Sobrino Bonnivier, Seeking Thirst: A Novel and Autobiography of a Stranger.

If you will be unable to attend but would like a signed copy of any of the books mentioned here, you can place your order with:
linda@philippineexpressionsbookshop.com or linda_nietes@sbcglobal.net

This is an ongoing program of Philippine Expressions Bookshop to reach out to the FilAm community and to increase the visibility of Filipinos in mainstream
America. $25.00 Lunch, inclusive of drinks, dessert and gratuities. Menu to be emailed upon reservation. Limited seating. The event is also open to male
guests. The venue is owned by Pinay entrepreneur Hilda Mauro. RSVP: linda@philippineexpressionsbookshop.com or call (310) 514-9139.

----

Philippine Expressions Bookshop
The Mail Order Bookshop dedicated to
Filipino Americans in search of their roots.

PO Box 4201, Main Post Office
Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274, USA Tel (310) 514-9139
www.philippineexpressionsbookshop.com
orders@philippineexpressionsbookshop.com
Join Friends of Philippine Expressions Bookshop in FaceBook
http://www.linkedin.com/pub/linda-nietes/29/558/7ab
Visit the personal page of Linda Nietes in FaceBook
----

"Do not go where the path may lead, go
instead where there is no path and leave a trail." - Ralph Waldo
Emerson.

We have blazed the trail in promoting Philippine books in America.
2012 marks our 28th year of service to the Filipino American
community. Mabuhay.

A Literary Homecoming for Cebuana Writer, by Jaime Picornell

Jaime Picornell wrote this kind and nice article about the book launch of OUT OF CEBU. Thank you, Jaime! In the picture, Jaime is seated on the far right; picture taken at the Planning Meeting of the Book Launch of Out of Cebu.


by Jaime Picornell
Philippine Daily Inquirer, Sun. Feb. 26, 2012
//lifestyle.inquirer.net/36369/a-literary-homecoming-for-cebuana-writer

It was a cool Sunday afternoon and many did forgo a prolonged siesta to attend a book launching at 2:30 p.m. at Salon Granada of the Casino Español de Cebu. Such a crowd could only be attained by celebrated Cebuano writer Cecilia “Baby” Manguerra Brainard with her ninth title, “Out of Cebu—Essays and Personal Prose.”

The event was under the aegis of the University of San Carlos (USC) Press, represented by university president Rev. Fr. Isidro Miranda SVD, and heritage writer Jojo Bersales, who was first to speak during the commemorative program. He said it was the first time USC Press was publishing a book by Ms Brainard.

The 28 essays in the book are about her family, the prominent Cuenco political dynasty, as well as life in Cebu, in the United States where she has lived since 1969, insights during her travels to different lands, and day-to-day impressions wherever she may be.

Maria Cecilia Cabañes hosted the program in which first to read from the book was Louie Nacorda. He chose “My Grandfather,” a biographical portrait of the author’s grandfather, erstwhile President of the Philippine Senate Mariano Jesus Cuenco.

Mayen Tan read “Death of a Carnival Queen,” which is about the author’s mother, Concepcion Cuenco Mangeurra, Cebu’s Carnival Queen in 1932. Decades after that people in Cebu were still talking about the splendor of her coronation.

Leodenito Cañete chose the first essay in the book “Where Daydreaming Came From.” The autobiographical piece describes the years since the author’s birth to early childhood.

Pia Mercado’s piece was “Diaspora in Italy,” which tells the vicissitudes of a Filipina overseas worker. It has quite a suspenseful plot, thrilling in some parts. The happy ending is an amnesty for TNT workers.

Gavin Bagares had helped drum up interest in the book launch, and he had a part in the program of readings. He chose “Kiki,” whose heroine is the Brainards’ pet cat. He didn’t read all of it, for as he said,” I want you to buy the book and find out how the story ends.”

The readings closed with Fr. Jun Rebayla, who opted for “Museo sa Sugbo—A Story of Hope.” Yes, the article is about the museum, but also that it was once the provincial jail where a maid of the Manguerra family was detained for stealing.

No need for introduction

Now, it was time to introduce Baby Manguerra Brainard who, as Jojo Bersales said, really does not need it. There she sat on a raised dais, a pile of books beside her, ready to sign those autographed copies.

She thanked Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama for his presence, and the USC Press for printing her book, stating that she looks forward to more projects with them. She was most grateful for the large turnout of family, friends, writers, members of academe and media.

About the book, she explained that it was “an accumulation of what I have published, now gathered in one collection. Given the easy flow of her writing, and her keen power of observation, it was suggested that she write her memoirs of life in Cebu, and beyond it.

Perhaps something like her essay on “Leche Flan.” It is a hilarious recounting of how she met the man who’d eventually become her husband, Lauren Brainard. “In 1996,” or was it more like 1967? He was then a Peace Corps volunteer in Maasin, Southern Leyte.

Baby had met Lauren months before he came to Cebu and was hospitalized with a festering wound in his leg. She and some friends (I was among them) went to visit him, and Baby thought of bringing a leche flan made by the family cook, Menggay.

Although she doesn’t say so in the essay, the trembling custard almost fell on the patient, but any way, it was duly tasted and praised. Somehow, Lauren always believed Baby had made it. Lauren left for the US, and some time later Baby met him in San Francisco where he was studying Law.

They fell in love, got married, and Lauren always reminded her about the leche flan she had made for him. “I never said I had made it,” Baby insisted,, but as she tells it in her story, she learned how to make one, with a half gallon tin of Magnolia ice cream (as it used to be in many households of the time).

Also as the story goes, she has treasured the recipe, perfected it even, and learned various versions of leche flan according to how it is made in different countries she has visited.

Lauren and Baby make their home in Santa Monica, California. They have three sons and several grandchildren. Baby comes to Cebu twice a year. First during Sinulog time in January for the fiesta of the Santo Niño. Then for the June 24 fiesta of St. John the Baptist in the old Parian area.

That is where she lives, in the top floor of a building she inherited from her mother. The neighborhood and its lore have inspired her ever since she began writing short stories and novels.

They are somehow interrelated and reflective of incidents that have found their way into the legends of mythical Ubec, which is Cebu spelled and pronounced backwards. “Binali,” as they say in Cebuano.

Cecilia Brainard Reads March 9, 2012 in Long Beach

Hi, there,
I'll be doing a reading on Friday, March 9, at Exhibit A Gallery, 555 Pine Avenue, Long Beach. I understand I'll be on, for an hour. I'll read from my new book, Out of Cebu, and from my other books. I'll post the Press release re this program with the details, but do come.http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif



Directions:
From Santa Monica, take I-405 toward Long Beach
Take Exit on left toward Downtown/Aquarium
Keep right to take the 6th St. ramp
Stay straight to go onto W. 6th St.
Turn right onto Pine Ave
555 Pine Ave is on the right


Cecilia

Planning Meeting Book Launch Cecilia Brainard's OUT OF CEBU: ESSAYS AND PERSONAL PROSE

Picture taken at the Planning Meeting of the Book Launch of my collection of essays, OUT OF CEBU, launch scheduled on Sunday, 2/5/12, 2:30 p.m. Granada Rm, Casino Espanol, Cebu City. No hardcopy invitations required to attend, but RSVP sancarlospublications@yahoo.com


Seated l-r: Terry Manguerra, Cecilia Manguerra Brainard, Jaime Picornell
Standing l-r: Louie Nacorda, Gavin Bagares, Jason Baguia, Jobers Bersales

What's Cecilia Brainard doing this Saturday, Oct. 8?

YOU'RE INVITED:

I'll be reading from ANGELICA'S DAUGHTERS and VIGAN AND OTHER STORIES in Carson Public Library, Sat. Oct. 8 2-4:30 p.m., 151 E. Carson St. RSVP 310-514-9139

Articles re FilAm Book Festival

I found these article about FilAm Book Fest:

http://208.184.76.173/Article.aspx?articleId=731108&publicationSubCategoryId=111

Filbook Fest: Hot Off The Press Literary Readings
(The Freeman) Updated September 26, 2011 12:00 AM Comments (0) View comments

CEBU, Philippines - The first Filipino American International Book Festival (FilBookFest) will be held in San Francisco’s Civic Center on October 1 & 2, 2011. The book festival is the first-ever of its size and focuses on literature, music, art, and performances by and from Filipinos and Filipino Americans.

The book festival will take place in three adjacent locations in Civic Center: the San Francisco Main Library, 100 Larkin St., the Asian Art Museum, 200 Larkin St., and on Fulton Street between Hyde and Larkin Streets. Lectures, author readings and panel discussions will take place through the Library; the Asian Art Museum will host culinary demonstrations and tastings; and booksellers, vendors and food booths will be located on Fulton Street.

Some 100 Filipino and Filipino American authors will be attending the Festival. Eighteen of these authors will be featured in two literary readings called HOT OFF THE PRESS, which will be held on October 1 and October 2, from 12-1:30 p.m. in the Koret Auditorium.

Those participating in HOT OFF THE PRESS include Tilay Angbetic who received her Bachelor’s degree in Communications from the University of the Philippines. After her year-long world tour with “Up With People,” Tilay moved to New York City, where she worked in the fashion industry and studied the craft of writing. She now lives in San Diego, pursuing her passions for writing, travel, photography, and food. She will read from her new novel entitled, Love & Other Firsts.

Still another participant is Benito M. Vergara, Jr. who was born and raised in the Philippines, and is the author of Displaying Filipinos: Photography and Colonialism in Early 20th-Century Philippines (University of the Philippines Press, 1995) and Pinoy Capital: The Filipino Nation in Daly City (Temple University Press, 2009). He received his PhD in Anthropology from Cornell University and has taught Asian American Studies and Anthropology at different universities in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Two other featured readers in HOT OFF THE PRESS were born and raised in California. Tony Robles is a writer and activist. His poetry has appeared in numerous journals including DisOrient Journalizine, Pinoy Poetics, The Asian Pacific American Journal, and the anthology Seven Card Stud with Seven Manangs Wild. He is the author of the children’s books Lakas and the Makibaka Hotel and Lakas and the Manilatown Fish. Tony is an editor of Poor Magazine.

Peter Jamero is the eldest son of Filipino immigrants, and was raised on a Filipino farm worker camp in California. He is the founding national vice-president of the Filipino American National Historical Society and the author of Growing Up Brown: Memoirs of a Filipino American and Vanishing Filipino Americans: The Bridge Generation.

The hosts of HOT OFF THE PRESS are Cecilia Brainard and Veronica Montes. Cecilia Brainard is the multi-award author of eight books, and editor of ten more. Cecilia’s work has been widely anthologized; her work has been translated into Finnish and Turkish.Veronica Montes’ short fiction has appeared in numerous anthologies such as Growing Up Filipino, and Going Home to a Landscape. Her work has also been published in the literary journals Bamboo Ridge, Prism International, and maganda. She is co-author of the dugtungan (“connecting”) novel, Angelica’s Daughters.

These authors will read in the Saturday HOT OFF THE PRESS: Bob Flor, Janet Stickmon, Geraldine Solon, Marivi Blanco, Paulino Lim, Veronica Montes, Almia de los Santos, Peter Jamero, Tony Robles, and Gloria Ramos.

On Sunday, these authors will read in HOT OFF THE PRESS: Tilay Angbetic, Benito Vergara, Angela Narciso Torres, Reme Grefalda, Cecilia Brainard, Aileen Ibardaloza-Cassinetto, Marily Orosam and Myles Garcia.

Booksellers and organizations, such as Anvil, Philippine Expressions, Arkipelago, PALH, PAWWA, and others will have the authors’ books available.

~~
(another article)
Book Fairs To be held in Manila, San Francisco
http://thechinesenewsoflasvegas.com/photo-gallery/book-fairs-to-be-held-in-manila-san-francisco/

By JOSEPH G. LARIOSA (lariosa_jos@sbcglobal.net)
(© 2011 Journal Group Link International)
IN SAN FRANCISCO

While the Filipino American International Book Festival will be held from Oct. 1-2 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at three venues in the Civic Center area of San Francisco. They are at Fulton Street where the booksellers,’ vendors’ and food booths, as well as an outdoor stage will be located; the San Francisco Public Library where lectures, readings and panel discussions will be held; and the Asian Art Museum, which will host the culinary lectures, food tasting, and a conversation with National Artist BenCab.

Ushering in the Filipino American History Month for 2011, the book fair will be the first-ever book festival in the U.S. to focus on literature, music, art and performances by and of the Filipinos and Filipino Americans.

Everyone is invited to take part in this free public event – as authors, booksellers, exhibitors/vendors, volunteers, sponsors/donors and performers, or just to enjoy Philippine culture and food at its best.

Among the authors of Filipino heritage, who have confirmed their attendance, are National Artists BenCab, Rio Alma and F. Sionil Jose, and well-known authors Ambeth Ocampo, Jose Dalisay, Pete Lacaba, Marites Vitug, Cecilia Brainard, among almost a hundred others.

Books that could browsed or be bought are of a wide variety of genres, for adults and children, artists and artisans, gays and straights, for those who seek inspiration and those who provide it, and many more. There will be new books to be launched at the event. Videos will also be available.

FilBookFest is sponsored by the Literacy Initiatives International Foundation (LIIF) a California nonprofit; the San Francisco Public Library, the Philippine Consulate, the Asian Art Museum and the Philippine Department of Tourism, in cooperation with TFC/ABS-CBN Foundation International. Among its sponsors are the Asia Foundation, the University of San Francisco’s Yuchengco Philippine Studies Program, Inquirer.net and Philippine News.

~~~

And more articles (may be repeats) here:

http://208.184.76.173/Article.aspx?articleId=731108&publicationSubCategoryId=111


http://thechinesenewsoflasvegas.com/photo-gallery/book-fairs-to-be-held-in-manila-san-francisco/

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/global-filipino/10/03/11/book-festival-celebrates-fil-am-authors

http://www.balitangamerica.tv/book-festival-celebrates-fil-am-authors/


http://www.usnewslasvegas.com/foreign/filipinos-foreign/book-festival-celebrates-fil-am-authors/

BOOK TALK in Carson Public Library

Hi, I'm part of this program, and hope you can make it.

BOOK TALKS TO CELEBRATE FILIPINO AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH


Saturday, October 8, 2011
2:00pm - 4:30pm

LA County Regional Library
Carson Public Library
151 E. Carson St., Carson, CA
Tel (310) 830-0901

The following authors will talk and read excerpts from their latest books.

Cecilia Manguerra Brainard is the multi-awarded author and editor of 14 books of novels, short stories, anthologies and essays. Her awards include a California Arts Council Fellowship in Fiction, a Brody Arts Fund Award, a Special Recognition Award from the Los Angeles Unified School District, a Certificate of Recognition from the California State Senate 2lst District, a 1998 Outstanding Individual Award from her birth city, Cebu, Philippines. She teaches creative writing at the Writers Program at UCLA-Extension. She will read from her two latest books, Vigan and Other Stories andAngelica's Daughters, a Dugtungan novel.

Samantha Sotto, based in Manila, shattered barriers that have previously stymied Filipino authors when Random House, one of the biggest publishers in the world published her debut novel, Before Ever After last month. Described as 'gutsy' and 'unusual', the book has been garnering some rave reviews. What if 'til death do us part meant longer than you realized? This is a love story that defies the boundaries of time and space to redefine our notion of forever.

Lorenzo Paran III was born and raised in Daraga, Albay, in the Philippines. He has a bachelor's degree in English and a master's degree in creative writing from the University of the Philippines in Diliman, Quezon City. His book, Pinoy in America is written with wry humor and it documents the immigrant's experiences which are anecdotal and experiential which the transplanted reader in America can relate to. He lives in Southern California, editing news stories for the Los Angeles Newspaper Group. He continues to write about the Pinoy-in-American life on his blog, pinoyinamerica.blogspot.com.


Carlene Sobrino Bonnivier's mother was from Baguio but Carlene herself was born in the heart of Historic Filipinotown when it was still teeming with Filipino immigrant families, and of aging Manongs. The word Manongs refer to elderly Filipino men who came to America in the early 20's to work as stoop labor in the farmlands of America; they have remained unmarried due to a twist in history. Carlene is a poet and novelist, and has co-authored a play entitled Brown Man in White Sheets which is about the Manongs. She will read from her novel, Seeking Thirst which took her three years to write but herewith condensed in one sentence: "Shrouded in normalcy - reliable husband, nice home in Noe Valley, health plan, Honda - Carol anesthetizes her memories of Dierdra and foster homes in alcohol until she discovers her orphan past in Los Angeles' Historic Filipinotown."

A table exhibit of some photographs of Filipinos during WWll will also be on display. Filipino American soldiers have played a part in fighting against the Japanese Army during WWll and their bravery is being remembered during this month of October which annually has been declared as Filipino American History Month.


This literary event is part of the celebration and is also an ongoing outreach program of Philippine Expressions Bookshop. It is co-sponsored by the Friends of Carson Public Library. Seats are limited. RSVP to or call (310) 514-9139.

Photo shows Cecilia Brainard (left) and Samantha Sotto( beside her) with other authors

Reprint from ABC-CBN News.com

(I found this on the internet. To clarify, Flip Gothic is a work of fiction. I do want to thank the folks from ABS-CBN because they have a video report:
hwww.balitangamerica.tv/book-festival-celebrates-fil-am-authors/

or try this YouTube link
www.youtube.com/watch?v=irZTH9r7EyE&feature=player_embedded

SAN FRANCISCO, California - Activist Tony Robles, author of "Lakas" and "The Makibaka Hotel" shared his poetry. Nurse Almia de los Santos, author of "Journey to the Beginning," traced her steps back to when it all began.

"It began with just a dream or maybe a child's fantasy. I would visualize coming to America as a cultured and beautiful woman," de los Santos said.

A Filipino-American in his 70s, Peter Jamero, who wrote "Vanishing Filipino Americans," talked about a generation lost.

Cecilia Brainard, award-winning author of "Flip Gothic," read letters about rediscovering one's roots. "I am still trying to figure out why you left for America when you had a good life here," Brainard said.

They were just some of the one hundred or so authors whose works were celebrated at the Filipino-American International Book Festival.

For two days, San Francisco hosted the largest gathering of artists and authors of Filipino heritage outside the Philippines.
~~
Same article reprinted in Philippine Times of Southern Nevada

re the Filipino American International Book Festival

The first ever, Filipino American International Book Festival (FilAm Book Fest) was held in San Francisco Oct. 1-2, and was, in my opinion a success. Talk is that the organizers will do this again in two years, and I'm certainly hoping they do so because the event is a win-win situation to the authors, publishers, as well as the Filipino American Community.

The event started with a reception at the Philippine Consulate on Friday night. Cocktails were served and consulate people, authors, and publishers mingled. Ex-president Fidel V. Ramos was present to promote his biography as well as many writers, many of whom I know, such as: Isagani Cruz, Marily Orosa, Paulino Lim, Ambeth Ocampo, Butch Dalisay, Pete Lacaba, Cris Yabes, Felice Sta. Maria, Almira Gilles, Penelope Lopez, Oscar Penaranda, Edwin Lozada, and many more. Linda Nietes of Philippine Expressions was also present, as were Anvil Publishing folks represented by Karina Bolasco and Gwenn Galvez.

My husband kept pointing at a sign that said something like “No More Than 50 people Allowed in the Room” when in fact there must have been over a hundred people present. I wasn't sure if it was a political event, a literary event, or a book launch of Ramos' biography, but it was all energetic and fun. A lot of official introductions and talks took place, most of it lost in the organized chaos in the room. Throughout the room there was a lot of hugging and handshaking; and media people were busy taking pictures and doing interviews. It was, in short, like going to a class reunion – just a lot of good energy and high spirits all throughout. One must understand that out of the 100 some authors present in the Festival, around 20 flew in from the Philippines, and even among the US-based authors, some came from Chicago, or the East Coast. There were even a few who came from Canada and Europe; I met a Filipina from Copenhagen. I should also add that Philippine publishers were there and brought with them thousands of books.


The site of the Book Festival itself was in the San Francisco Civic Center and nearby San Francisco Public Library and Asian Art Museum. The outdoor area had a section for the food vendors, an outdoor stage, and booksellers and other booths. Fortunately, the weather was great over the weekend, mild enough so the authors and publishers from the Philippines were comfortable.


I shared a booth with John Silva (who just released the book, A Token of Our Friendship, Philippine Photos of Male Affection) and Marily Orosa, publisher of award-winning coffee table books. Even though there wasn't a huge crowd at the festival, those who showed up were very enthusiastic and snapped up books. By the end of the festival, John had sold out his book, and I sold out some titles. The books were, as the saying goes, "selling like hotcakes."



I was very impressed with the Festival visitors. In all honesty it wasn't a big crowd. Early Saturday morning, I started to worry because there weren't a lot of people. More people came mid-day, but the place really wasn't packed. However, those who attended were really interested in literature and books. They talked to the authors, bought books, and were excited and happy because they were in this literary event. I'm thinking here of Donna Bella whom I met at an earlier literary reading in Berkeley. I had invited her to the festival; she went, and was so happy, she glowed.

There were many students present, including Galileo High School students and Skyline College students who stopped by my booth. Parents, grandparents were there. And the wonderful thing about it was that they were truly interested in literature. It was awesome.



Aside from spending time in my booth, I moderated (along with Veronica Montes) the literary reading programs, HOT OFF THE PRESS on Saturday and Sunday. The literary readings celebrated newly published books by Filipino and Filipino American authors, including: Tony Robles, Almia de los Santos, Peter Jamero, Sunny Vergara, Gloria Ramos, Romy Honorio, Bob Flor, Geraldine Solon, Rafe Bartolomew, Angela Torres, Sarita See, Karen Llagas, Aileen Ibardaloza-Cassinetto, Lilia Rahman, Tilay Angbetic, Emmie Velarde, Myles Garcia, and Samantha Sotto.

I was particularly delighted that the readers were all professional and kept to their 8 minute limit. Both events were quite popular and drew an audience of some 150-200 people each day.

I should add that there were numerous talks and activities going on, all very interesting. For instance, Ambeth Ocampo gave a provocative talk “Queridas ni Rizal: Love and Sex in Philippine History.” Felice Sta. Maria and Claude Tayag gave talks on Philippine Cuisine. Children’s storytelling went on with Almira Gilles, Dorina Lazo-Gilmore, and Sol Manaay. The members of Bindlestiff Studio, an all Filipino-American theatrical group in San Francisco, did several performances. The Babaylan Group had a Healing Arts Pavilion where they gave talks and had hilot sessions. The artist BenCab talked about his creative process. Barbara Jane Reyes, Reme Grefalda, Neni Sta. Romana Cruz, Marites Vitub, Ben Pimentel, Marivi Blanco, Leny Strobel, and many others talked in various panels.

There was also a Tribute Night honoring Carlos Bulosan, NVM Gonzalez, Bienvenido Santos, Jose Garcia Villa, F. Sionil Jose, Al Robles, Ceres Alabado, Fred and Dorothy Cordova, Evangeline Buell, Linda Ty-Casper and Nick Joaquin. In short there was something for everyone, and from what I could see visitors were not disappointed.
The organizers are numerous and I do not mean to leave anyone out, but I do wish to thank those I dealt with: Gemma Nemenzo, Penelope Flores, Oscar Penaranda, Edwin Lozada, and Mitchell Yangson. I hope that the organizers will hold another festival it in the future — for the good of the writers, publishers, book sellers, and the Filipino and Filipino American communities.



For more, here's a video clip about the FilAm Book Fest:

www.balitangamerica.tv/book-festival-celebrates-fil-am-authors/
~~
Photos from the top:
top - l-r: Cecilia, Almira Gilles, Penelope Flores, Ambeth Ocampo, Paulino Lim
next - l-r: Cecilia, Felice Sta. Maria, Marily Orosa, Ex-President Fidel Ramos, guest
next - l-r: Pia Lopezbano-Carrion, Jeremiah Ysip
next - l-r: Barbara and Paulino Lim, Lauren Brainard
next - John Silva taking a break
last - Jonathan Best and John Silva taking a break

What is Cecilia Brainard Up to?

COMING UP:

Thurs, Sept. 29 7 p.m. - Reading at Eastwind Books, 2066 University Avenue, Berkeley
Friday, Sept. 30 - Talk to Students of Galileo High School, attend Bindlestiff production in San Francisco
Saturday, Oct. 1 - FilAm Book Fest, mind the book I'm sharing with John Silva, Marily Orosa, and Veronica Montes, read in Hot off the Press;
Sunday, Oct. 2 - still at the book fest, moderate Hot off the Press

More later on, with pictures!

Reprint of Manila Bulletin Article - Which Book Would You Un-ban?

Which book would you un-ban?
By RONALD S. LIM
September 24, 2011, 12:22pm

MANILA, Philippines — Every year, from September 25 to October 1, the American Library Association (ALA) celebrates Banned Books Week, a celebration intended to highlight free and open access to information by spotlighting on successful or attempted banning of books across the United States.

The ALA accomplishes this by providing a list of over 100 books that have either been subject to banning, a challenge, or any form of restriction that prevents libraries from freely distributing it to its patrons. The list can be viewed here: http://www.abffe.org/ bbw-booklist.htm

During Banned Books Week, library patrons are usually encouraged to pick up a book from the list and also encourage other people to do the same.

As part of the banned Books Week celebration, the Students and Campuses Bulletin posed this question to local authors: “If you were to remove just one book from the banned books list, which book would it be and why?”

" This is like asking me which one of my kids I would save if they both fell off a boat. Ugh. Okay.
Fine. Harry Potter. Some people say it should be banned because it promotes witchcraft. That’s like saying that Winnie the Pooh promotes gluttony. Muggles.” – Samantha Sotto, author of “Before Ever After”

“To Kill a Mockingbird’’ by Harper Lee. I have no idea what this novel is doing in a banned list!

This is a fine work of literature, excellently written, with memorable characters, and about a topic that needed to be looked at the right time in America. That the book was banned because of ‘racial slurs’ is absurd.

I have no doubt that those who banned it were not comfortable with the larger Black-White racial problems in the US that the book brought up. The novel, told from the point of view of a young girl, Scout, focuses on a particular legal case that her father dealt with, in which a white woman accuses a black man of attempted rape. In fact, the white woman had been attracted to him.

Was this what made the people who banned the book uncomfortable? This question was raised in court by Scout’s father, the unforgettable Atticus Finch.” – Cecilia Manguerra Brainard, author of “Vigan and Other Stories”

“Looking over the list of books and authors , it reads like a Who’s Who of classic American fiction.

I think it would really be an honor to be included in ANY club (even a “Banned Books” club!) with authors like Isabel Allende, Aldous Huxley, Mark Twain,

Tobias Wolff. Looking over the list of banned books, I am most saddened by the inclusion of Edwidge Danticat’s Krik? Krak! which I thought was a great collection of short stories.

Of the banned books, the one I’ve read most recently was The Bookseller of Kabul. I read it a few years ago, and was grateful for Asne Seierstad’s warmly human eye, her skill at observation, and for her affording us a glimpse into the world of the Afghan wife.

The human heart is so unpredictable – I thought the book was not a blanket condemnation of the subordinate status of the wife in a traditional Afghan household, but rather a very empathetic portrait of a couple of women, who would never dream of changing the system which requires them to stifle their own desires, but who are resilient and resourceful and find ways to endure.” – Marianne Villanueva, author of “The Lost Language”

“If I could take just one book away from t e banned books list, this would be The Freedom Writers Diar y by Erin Grunwell.

I think it is important for high school students to know how important it is to have hope and care about making a difference in this world. Reading this true story teaches young people not to be afraid of believing in your dreams and making it happen. This is truly an inspiring story.” – Rosanna Gonzalez, author of “Restaurant Management 101”

“I was surprised to find ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ by Harper Lee in the l ist of banned books.

The s tory is classical literature that deals with prejudice and racism. I think even if racism against blacks are a thing of the past, new forms of racism are emerging and that there is much to learn from that novel. Also, Atticus Finch serves a model lawyer even for professionals of this day.” – Rachel Khan, author of “Campus Journalism for Students”

Thank you, Teacher - reprint from Manila Bulletin

Here's another article in the Manila Bulletin that includes my 2-centavos worth.

Thank you, teacher
In gratitude, these personalities pay tribute to their teachers by simply saying 'thank you'…
By STUDENTS AND CAMPUSES BULLETIN TEAM
September 18, 2011, 8:00am

MANILA, Philippines — ‘’Marami akong pasasalamatan. Lahat siguro ng teachers ko noong high school. And of course sa St. Mary’s, mga RVM sisters. I started in the business young pero noong nag-aaral ako, talagang they guided me dahil sirang-sira ang schedule ko. Nagsa-summer ako para lang makahabol. And then kumukuha ako ng DepEd test, sa RVM retreat house ako pinakuha ng test para makapasa lang ako ng high school, para makuha ko ‘yung diploma ko. I owe it to them, sa lahat ng teachers ko in high school and of course sa St. Mary’s RVM sisters.’’ – VILMA SANTOS, actress.

‘’The teacher I appreciated most was my own mother – Dolores Aniceto Musngi. I have always been quite a loner, for most of my elementary and high school days. My mother’s body was half-paralyzed and her speech was very limited and yet she struggled to take care of me and my unmarried sister then, keep home, and teach us about values, persistence, hard work and love of God and family. My mother taught me that no matter the odds that are against you, if you try hard enough, success and happiness can be within your reach. She always told me to never give up.’’ – PETER MUSNGI, unit head of ABS-CBN Manila Radio and Sports division.

“Sister Consuelo Varela was my teacher in St. Theresa’s College, San Marcelino where I attended high school. She was also the principal. She was strict and fearsome and we were all terrified of her, until we became her students and enjoyed her protection. She pushed all of us to use our heads, reminding us that we had an obligation to give back to society. What I remember most was studying Shakespeare in her class her. She had us do little theatrical plays in the classroom. Those were memorable; they made Shakespeare’s work come to life. She made us excited about literature. I can still quote Lady Macbeth’s lines: Life’s but a walking shadow, a poor player
That struts and frets his hour upon the stage, And then is heard no more. It is a tale Told by an idiot, full of sound and fury,
Signifying nothing.” – CECILIA MANGUERRA BRAINARD, author

“If I could thank one teacher, it would be my dad, Sonny Jaboneta. When I was six years old, he chided me that a younger cousin could read the newspaper already. That moment really taught me that nothing is impossible if you put your mind to it.” – JAY JABONETA, firestarter, Philippine Funds for Little Kids

“I would thank all my high school and college teachers, but ultimately I would thank Mr. Jesus de Silva, my fourth year class adviser and our Accounting teacher. He made Accounting perfectly clear for us, with his funny jokes. And he made our last year in high school the best we could possibly have. He is very proud of what I’ve become. – CARLA ABELLANA, actress

“Teacher Baba Paguia is one of my autistic son’s early teachers. She’s a gifted SpEd (special education) teacher who made a lot of breakthroughs during those years of early intervention for my Gio. Very creative... can you imagine miniature trampoline made out of ladies’ undies? She taught our yayas and me how to be consistent when doing behavior management at home with Gio. While addressing family issues with Gio, including those of his siblings, she was educating me not just on raising a child with autism, but on how to be a mother to all my three boys. Come to think of it, Teacher Baba IS one of my teachers. I would always think of her with so much love and gratitude.” – DANG KOE, chairman emeritus, Autism Society Philippines

“I would like to thank Dr. Judy Ick from the UP College of Arts and Letters. She was my teacher in three different classes, including Intro to Shakespeare and Renaissance Literature. Ma’am Ick had an ability to make works written in the 15th, 18th century relevant to our lives. She made stories come alive and made us realize that even though so much has changed since the time of Shakespeare, so much has remained the same in terms of racism, gender studies, politics, religion, etc. Ma’am Ick taught with such infectious enthusiasm that I looked forward to going to class every single day. Her approach to life and literature inspired me to pursue my passion and take the road less traveled.” – ANNA OPOSA, environmentalist and theater artist.

“I would thank the teacher (clinical supervisor) who gave me a failing grade during my last rotation at the Philippine General Hospital, a month before I was supposed to graduate. She taught me a real lesson in life – that you do not always reap what you sow, but the most important thing is falling forward and bouncing back with every misfortune that comes your way! That experience taught me to rise above life’s challenges and be resilient enough to pick up the pieces and move on. If I probably had it easy with that teacher, I wouldn’t have turned out the way I did.” – GENEVIEVE RIVADELO, pediatric physiotherapist and special educator

“The teacher that I appreciate the most is my grandmother Ruby Mangahas. She got me into music and loving it for the pure art that it is. I never thought I would like music but the more I talked to her, the more I spent time with her, the more she encouraged me to do it, to follow what I liked to do and to follow what’s in my heart. Until now I subscribe to that. If you do something, it has to be bigay todo, or just don’t do it.’’ – KELLEY MANGAHAS, band member, Kjwan

“Doreen Fernandez. I met her when I was a freshman at the Ateneo. She told me I was a writer long before I felt like one. The stresses of the writing life are many but with her firm belief in my ability, and her example, I learned to navigate the shoals of the writing life with fearlessness.” – MARIANNE VILLANUEVA, author of ‘’The Lost Language’’

What Would You Ask Rizal? - Reprint Manila Bulletin

I found this article in the internet that includes my 2-centavos worth:
http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/323194/what-would-you-ask-rizal


What would you ask Rizal?
By RONALD S. LIM
June 18, 2011, 3:00pm

MANILA, Philippines — Jose Rizal excelled at many things, but nowhere is he more well known here and around the world than for being the writer of the “Noli Me Tangere” and the “El Filibusterismo”.

The “Noli” and the “Fili” not only stoked the fires of Filipino patriotism during the 19th century, but they have also stood the test of time and have proven themselves to be exceptional novels worthy to be ranked alongside the other great works of the world. Rizal’s works have no doubt inspired many a young Filipino to pick up their pens and write.

In celebration of the upcoming 150th celebration of Jose Rizal's birth, the Students and Campuses Bulletin has asked some of the country's top writers what they would ask the national hero if he were still around today.

Politics, maybe? “Ang itatanong ko kay Rizal ay kung kakandidato ka ba sa pagka-presidente, senador, o congressman? At kung kakandidato ka, gusto mo bang kasama sa ticket si Manny Pacquiao? Para sa akin, unang-una, tanong iyon para ma-determine natin kung tama 'yung ating mataas na pagpapahalaga sa politics at politicians. Tama ba ang paraan ng pagtingin natin sa mga pulitiko. Si Pacquiao nga eh kakandidato daw for President. 'Yun ang gusto kong malaman. Kung tunay siyang hinahangaan ng taongbayan, maaring makapagsalita siya tungkol sa uri ng ating mataas na pagpapahalaga sa politics at sa uri ng politics na meron tayo dito.

Ang ikalawa kong tanong, pahihintulutan ba niyang komiks ang ipangturo sa Noli at Fili sa high school at sa kolehiyo?” — National Artist for Literature Virgilio Almario

Where do you get the energy? “If I were to ask a question addressed to Rizal, it would be this: How were you able to do all those things--study, organize Filipinos abroad, research prehispanic Philippines relentlessly, write the novels, befriend Spaniards, put up a school--in so short a time?” — Romulo P. Baquiran, Jr., editor of “Laglag-Panty, Laglag-Brief” and “Tahong/Talong”

What are you hiding? “The question I will ask is also one of the things I tell people. He left us 25 volumes of material. But those are the things he wanted us to see. There are things he didn't write. There are letters and diaries he destroyed. Why did you destroy that and why?” — Ambeth Ocampo, historian and former chair of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines

Peace or revolution? “Knowing what happened to the Philippines after your death, which would have been more effective in achieving independence from Spain - non-violence as Gandhi used, or a bloody revolution?

Jose Rizal did not join the revolution; he sought reforms from the Spanish government. Would the Spanish government have given reforms if the Filipinos had not fought? Would non-violent means as Gandhi used, have worked? Or would the Spanish government have simply crushed and oppressed the Filipinos further if they tried to get reforms peacefully?” — Cecilia Manguerra Brainard, co-author of “Angelica's Daughters”

Are we free from the church? “Pepe, what can you actually do so that the Church is truly separate from the state in all matters of state governance? Why this question? Remember he didn't like the Spanish friars then for being the real governors of the country during colonial times, and so that may be his continued sentiment today.” — Herbert Sancianco, author of “Sales Promotions: Best Practices”

A modern Noli? “I have a few questions for Jose Rizal:
1. Do the many books and other materials on you do you justice? Are they faithful to your life and all that you hold dear? Which titles do you recommend we all read?
2. Considering how you have always regarded the youth as the hope of the fatherland, what is the most important advice you'd give today's youth?
3. Seeing the state of affairs in the country today, what 2011 version of the Noli would you write?
4. What are you most pleased about the Philippines today?
5. How do you feel that the Philippine Board on Books for Young People has pegged the annual celebration of the National Children's Book Day on the 3rd Tuesday in July, when Trubner's Oriental Record in London first published your 'Monkey and the Turtle'?” — Neni Sta. Romana-Cruz, author and National Book Award winner

What's cooking? “What foods did you eat on a daily basis with your meager allowance during your stay in Europe? If you had more money at your disposal then, how would you have spent it, upgraded your lodging or spent more on food?” — Claude Tayag, author of “Food Tour” and “Linamnam”

What's the best translation? “Which English and Filipino translations of your novels best capture the aesthetic effect you wanted to achieve?” — Jonathan Malicsi, University of the Philippines professor and author of the “English Linguistics Project”

What about your big brother? “Why did you agree to everything your brother Paciano planned for your education and mission? Did you agree because you also believed in it totally or because it was expected of you? It is clear that if your brother Paciano wasn¹t there to support you on both an emotional, financial and moral basis, you may not have been able to study abroad and do the mission you had to fulfill for our country. I wonder if there was every a moment or time that you doubted what your brother Paciano had requested of you and the pact you both agreed on.” — Jeannie E. Javelosa, writer and curator of the Rizalizing the Future Exhibit at the Yuchengco Museum

Are you gay? “Your flitting from girlfriend to girlfriend, was that to camouflage a homo streak? Why I'd ask him that is explained by my observation that most men I know who leave a trail of broken hearts of women are actually, well, insecure about their manhood and they have to prove this to themselves over and over through conquest, and then dumping, so they could be assured na lalaki nga sila.” — Babeth Lolarga, editor of “Baguio We Know” and “Baguio Calligraphy”

Any advice for expats? “What advice would you give Filipino expatriates today about loving one's country from across the seas? Who better can speak about the concept of patriotism away from home better than Rizal?” — Gemma Nemenzo, managing editor of the online FilAm magazine Filipina