Poetry talk and workshop in Virac

By Rudolph Ian Alama VIRAC, Catanduanes --- About 30 participants composed of teachers, students, and freelance writers attended the Poetry Talk and Workshop dubbed as Kurit-kugit nin Rawitdawit sa Isla held last May 19, 2018. Contemporary Philippine Literature icons Allan C. Popa and Lourd Ernest De Veyra, the TV 5 weather man and program host, served as speakers of the activity. The event was spearheaded by the Provincial Government of Catanduanes, in partnership with Surte, and The CSU Statesman. Surte President and CSU Statesman adviser Adem Nalu V. Rubio expressed his gratitude for the opportunity that the partnership provided and is hoping for more programs and events that will tackle literature and the culture of Catanduanes as a whole. According to him, the activity raised the awareness of participants in literature and Catandungan culture even as he expressed that Surte is very much thankful and that there will be more collaboration with other institutions like DepEd. Zoren Anonuevo, Surte member and a teacher at Baras Rural Development High School, said the workshop has guided him as a newbie writer. Meanwhile, Reashiela Khan, Surte secretary, added that the workshop allowed her to realize the power of poetry in retelling the stories of Catandunganons. On the other hand, Popa was impressed with the quality of outputs of the workshop and expressed his optimism for the future of island poetry. According to him, if developed, the writers’ talent in poetry may serve as instrument to be a more caring members of the community.