The Contemporary Period

Philippine Literature

The Rebirth of Freedom (1946-1970)

Historical Background

The Americans returned in 1945. Filipinos rejoiced and guerillas who fled to the mountain joined the liberating American Army.

On July 4, 1946, the Philippines regained is freedom and the Filipino flag waved joyously alone. The chains were broken.

A. THE STATE OF LITERATURE DURING THIS PERIOD

The early post-liberation period was marked by a kind of “struggle of mind and spirit”posed by the sudden emancipation from the enemy, and the wild desire to see print.

Filipinos had, by this time, learned to express themselves more confidently but post-war problems beyond language and print-like economic stability, the threat of new ideas and mortality –had to be grappled with side by side.

There was a proliferation of newspapers like the FREE PRESS, MORNING SUN, of Sergio Osmeña Sr., DAILY MIRROR of Joaquin Roces, EVENING NEWS of Ramon Lopezes and the BULLETIN of Menzi. This only proved that there were more readers in English than in any ocher vernaculars like Tagalog, Ilocano or Hiligaynon.

Journalists had their day. They indulged in more militant attitude in their reporting which bordered on the libelous. Gradually, as normality was restored, the tones and themes of the writings turned to the less pressing problems of economic survival.

Some Filipino writers who had gone abroad and had written during the interims came back to publish their works.

Not all the books published during the period reflected the war year; some were compilations or second editions of what have been written before.

Some of the writers and their works of the periods are:

THE VOICE OF THE VETERAN –a compilation of the best works of some Ex-USAFFE men like Amante Bigornia, Roman de la Cruz, Ramon de Jesus and J.F. Rodriguez.

TWILIGHT IN TOKYO andPASSION and DEATH OF THE USAFFE by Leon Ma. Guerrero

FOR FREEDOM AND DEMOCRACY–by S.P. Lopez

BETRAYAL IN THE PHILIPPINES–by Hernando Abaya

SEVEN HILLS AWAY–by NVM Gonzales

POETRY IN ENGLISH DURING THIS PERIOD

For the first twenty years, many books were published…both in Filipino and in English.

Among the writers during this time were: Fred Ruiz Castro, Dominador I. Ilio, and C.B. Rigor.

Some notable works of the period include the following:

1. HEART OF THE ISLANDS (1947) –a collection of poems by Manuel Viray

2. PHILIPPINES CROSS SECTION (1950) –a collection of prose and poetry by Maximo Ramos and Florentino Valeros

3. PROSE AND POEMS (1952) –by Nick Joaquin

4. PHILIPPINE WRITING (1953) –by T.D. Agcaoili

5. PHILIPPINE HAVEST –by Amador Daguio

6. HORIZONS LEAST (1967) –a collection of works by the professors of UE, mostly in English (short stories, essays, research papers, poem and drama) by Artemio Patacsil and Silverio Baltazar

The themes of most poems dealt with the usual love of nature, and of social and political problems. Toribia Maño’s poems showed deep emotional intensity.

7. WHO SPOKE OF COURAGE IN HIS SLEEP –by NVM Gonzales

8. SPEAK NOT, SPEAK ALSO –by Conrado V. Pedroche

9. Other poets were Toribia Maño and Edith L. Tiempo

Jose Garcia Villa’s HAVE COME, AM HEREwon acclaim both here and abroad.

NOVELS AND SHORT STORIES IN ENGLISH

Longer and longer pieces were being written by writers of the period. Stevan Javellana’s WITHOUT SEEING THE DAWN tells of the grim experiences of war during the Japanese Occupation.

In 1946, the Barangay Writer’s Project whose aim was to publish works in English by Filipinos was established.

In 1958, the PEN Center of the Philippines (Poets, essayists, novelists) was inaugurated. In the same year, Francisco Arcellana published his PEN ANTHOLOGY OF SHORT STORIES.

In 1961, Kerima Polotan’s novel THE HAND OF THE ENEMY won the Stonehill Award for the Filipino novel in English.

In 1968, Luis V. Teodoro Jr.’s short story THE ADVERSARY won the Philippines Free Press short story award; in 1969, his story THE TRAIL OF PROFESSOR RIEGO won second prize in the Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature and in 1970, his short story THE DISTANT CITY won the GRAPHIC short story award.

THE NEW FILIPINO LITERATURE DURING THIS PERIOD

Philippines literature in Tagalog was revived during this period. Most themes in the writings dealt with Japanese brutalities, of the poverty of life under the Japanese government and the brave guerilla exploits.

Newspapers and magazine publications were re-opened like the Bulaklak, Liwayway, Ilang Ilangand Sinag Tala. Tagalog poetry acquired not only rhyme but substance and meaning. Short stories had better characters and events based on facts and realities and themes were more meaningful. Novels became common but were still read by the people for recreation.

The people’s love for listening to poetic jousts increased more than before and people started to flock to places to hear poetic debates.

Many books were published during this time, among which were:

1. Mga Piling Katha (1947-48) by Alejandro Abadilla

2. Ang Maikling Kuwentong Tagalog (1886-1948) by Teodoro Agoncillo

3. Ako’y Isang Tinig (1952) collection of poems and stories by Genoveva Edroza Matute

4. Mga Piling Sanaysay (1952) by Alejandro Abadilla

5. Maikling Katha ng Dalawampung Pangunahing Autor (1962) by A.G. Abadilla and Ponciano E.P. Pineda

6. Parnasong Tagalog (1964) collection of selected poems by Huseng Sisiw and Balagtas, collected by A.G. Abadilla

7. Sining at Pamamaraan ng Pag-aaral ng Panitikan (1965) by Rufino Alejandro.

He prepared this book for teaching in reading and appreciation of poems, dramas, short stories and novels

8. Manlilikha, Mga Piling Tula (1961-1967) by Rogelio G. Mangahas

9. Mga Piling Akda ng Kadipan (Kapisanang Aklat ng Diwa at Panitik) 1965 by Efren Abueg

10. Makata (1967) first cooperative effort to publish the poems of 16 poets in Pilipino

11. Pitong Dula (1968) by Dionisio Salazar

12. Manunulat: Mga Piling Akdang Pilipino (1970) by Efren Abueg. In this book, Abueg proved that it is possible to have a national integration of ethnic culture in our country.

13. Mga Aklat ni Rizal: Many books about Rizal came out during this period. The law ordering the additional study of the life of Rizal helped a lot in activating our writers to write books about Rizal.

Period of Activism (1970-1972)

Historical Background

According to Pociano Pineda, youth activism in 1970-72 was due to domestic and worldwide causes. Activism is connected with the history of our Filipino youth.

Because of the ills of society, the youth moved to seek reforms. Some continued to believe that the democratic government is stable and that it is only the people running the government who are at fault. Some believed that socialism or communism should replace democracy. Some armed groups were formed to bring down the democratic form of government.

Many young people became activists to ask for changes in the government. In the expression of this desire for change, keen were the writings of some youth who were fired with nationalism in order to emphasize the importance of their petitions.

Many young activists were imprisoned in military camps together with rebel writers.

As early as this period of history we can say that many of those writers who were imprisoned were true nationalists and heroes of their time.

Many books aptly record and embody these times but many of these are not known to many and many of these writers still have to be

interviewed. We just leave to scholars and researchers the giving of credit where credit is due.

A. THE SEED OF ACTIVISM

The seeds of activism resulted in the declaration of Martial Law in 1972. We can, however, say that he seeds were earlier sown from the times of Lapu-lapu, Lakandula, and Rizal. The revolution against the powerful forces in the Philippines can be said to be the monopoly of the youth in whose veins flow the fire in their blood. What Rizal said of the youth being the hope of the Fatherland –is still valid even today.

B. PERIOD OF THE BLOODY PLACARDS

Pineda also said that this was the time when the youth once more proved that it is not the constant evasion that shapes our race and nationalism.

There is a limit to one’s patience. It may explode like a volcano if overstrained.

Life? What avails like if one is a coward who does not take a stand for himself and for the succeeding generations?

C. THE LITERARY REVOLUTION

The youth became completely rebellious during this period. This was proven not only in the bloody demonstrations and in the sidewalk expressions but also in literature. Campus newspapers showed rebellious emotions. The once aristocratic writers developed awareness for society. They held pens and wrote on placards in red paint the equivalent of the word MAKIBAKA (To dare!).

They attacked the ills of society and politics.

Any establishment became the symbol of the ills that had to be changed. The frustrations of youth could be felt in churches and school.

Even the priests, teachers and parents, as authorities who should be respected became targets of the radical youth and were though of as hindrances to the changes they sought.

The literature of the activists reached a point where they stated boldly what should be done to effect these changes.

Some of those who rallied to this revolutionary form of literature were Rolando Tinio, Rogelio Mangahas, Efren Abueg, Rio Alma, and Clemente Bautista.

WRITING DURING THE PERIOD OF ACTIVISM

The irreverence for the poor reached its peak during this period of the mass revolution. It was also during this period that Bomba films that discredit our ways as Filipinos started to come out.

PALANCA AWARDEES FOR LITERATURE IN ENGLISH

(Established in 1950, the Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature had been giving cash prizes for short story, poetry and one-act play writing as an incentive to Filipino writers. The prizes come from La Tondena, Inc., the firm founded by the late Carlos Palanca Sr. For the list of winners from 1950-51 to 1960-70, we recommended Alberto S. Florentino’s “Twenty Years of Palanca Awards.”)

ENGLISH SHORT STORY

1970-71

First Prize –“THE RITUAL”–Cirilo F. Bautista

Second Prize –“BEAST IN THE FIELDS”–Resil Mojares

Third Prize –“CHILDREN OF THE CITY”–Amadis Ma. Guerrero

1970-71

First Prize –“THE ARCHIPELAGO”–Cirilo F. Bautista

Second Prize –“FIVE POEMS”–Wilfredo Pascua Sanchez

Third Prize –“FROM MACTAN TO MENDIOLA”–Frederico Licsi Espino Jr.

ENGLISH ONE-ACT PLAY

1970-71

First Prize –“THE GROTESQUE AMONG US”–Maiden Flores

ENGLISH POETRY

1971-72

First Prize –“THE TOMATO GAME”–N.V.M. Gonzales

Second Prize –“THE APOLLO CENTENNIAL”–Gregorio C. Brillantes

Third Prize –“AFTER THIS, OUR EXILE”–Elsa Martinez Coscolluela

1971-72

First Prize –“BATIK MAKER AND OTHER POEMS”–Virginia R. Moreno

Second Prize –“THE EDGE OF THE WIND”–Artemio Tadena

Third Prize –“TINIKLING (A SHEAF OF POEMS)”–Frederico Licsi Espino Jr.

1971-72

First Prize –“GRAVE FOR BLUE FLOWER”–Jesus T. Peralta

Second Prize –“THE UNDISCOVERED COUNTRY”–Manuel M. Martell

Third Prize –The judges recommend that in as much as the three third prize winners especially deserve, the prize of P 1,000.00 be divided among these three:

“THE BOXES”–Rolando S. Tinio

“NOW IS THE TIME FOR ALL GOOD MEN TO COME TO THE AID OF THEIR COUNTRY”–Julian E. Dacanay

“THE RENEGADE”–Elsa Martinez Coscolluela

WRITERS DURING THIS PERIOD

Jose F. Lacaba, in his book DAYS OF DISQUIET, NIGHTS OF RAGE; THE FIRST QUARTERS STORM AND RELATED EVENTS, wrote of the tragic and tumultuous moments in our country’s history.

Describing this period, he writes: “That first quarter of the year 1970…It was a glorious time, a time of terror and of wrath, but also a time for hope. The signs of change were on the horizon.

A powerful storm was sweeping the land, a storm whose inexorable advance no earthly force could stop, and the name of the storm was history.”

He mentions that those students demonstrating at that time knew and were aware that what they were doing would be crucial to our country’s history. Student leaders thought up grandiose names for their organizations and hence, the proliferation of acronyms likes SUCCOR, YDS, KTPD, SAGUPA, SMP, KKK, KM, MDP, and SDK.

Politicians endorsed bills for those who interfered with student demonstrators.

Mayor Antonio Villegas himself, on Feb. 18, 1970, led demonstrators away from angry policemen. Other politicians like Eva Estrada Kalaw, and Salvador Laurel, Benigno Aquino Jr. wrote about condemnation of police brutalities.

Lacaba’s book is truly representative of writers who were eyewitnesses to this time “of terror and wrath.”

Other writers strove to pour out their anguish and frustrations in words describing themselves as “gasping for the air, thirsting for the water of freedom.”Thus, the Philippine Center for the International PEN (Poets, Essayists, and Novelists) held a conference centering on the “writer’s lack of freedom in a climate of fear.”

For a day they denounced restrictions on artistic freedom and passionately led a plea for freedom. Among the writers in this group were: Nick Joaquin, S.P. Lopez, Gregorio Brillantes, F. Sionil Jose, Petronilo Daroy, Letty Jimenez-Magsanoc, Mauro Avelina, and Jose W. Diokno.

People in the other media participated in this quest for freedom. Journalists Jose Burgos Jr., Antonio Ma. Nieva,; movie director Lino Brocka, art critic Anna Leah S. de Leon were battling head –on against censorship.

They came up with resolutions that pleaded for causes other than their own –like the general amnesty for political prisoners, and other secret decrees restricting free expression.

They requested editors and publishers to publish the real names of writers in their columns. It called on media to disseminate information on national interest without partisan leanings and resolved to be united with all causes decrying oppression and repression.

Period of the New Society (1972-1980)

Historical Background

The period of the New Society started on September 21, 1972. The Carlos Palanca Awards continued to give annual awards.

Almost all themes in most writings dealt with the development or progress of the country –like the Green Revolution, family planning, proper nutrition, environment, drug addiction and pollution. The New Society tried to stop pornography or those writings giving bad influences on the morals of the people. All school newspapers were temporarily stopped and so with school organizations.

The military government established a new office called the Ministry of Public Affairs that supervised the newspapers, books and other publications.

The government took part in reviving old plays like the Cenaculo, the Zarzuela and the Embayoka of the Muslims. The Cultural Center of the Philippines, the Folk Arts Theater and even the old Metropolitan Theater were rebuilt in order to have a place for these plays.

Singing both Filipino and English songs received fresh incentives. Those sent abroad promoted many Filipino songs.

The weekly publications like KISLAP, and LIWAYWAY helped a lot in the development of literature. These became outlets for our writers to publish many of their works.

A. FILIPINO POETRY DURING THE PERIOD OF THE NEW SOCIETY

Themes of most poems dealt with patience, regard for native culture, customs and the beauties of nature and surroundings.

Those who wrote poetry during this period were: Ponciano Pineda, Aniceto Silvestre, Jose Garcia Revelo, Bienvenido Ramos, Vicente Dimasalang, Cir Lopez Francisco, and Pelagio Sulit Cruz.

Many more composers added their bit during this period. Among them were Freddie Aguilar, Jose Marie Chan and the group Tito, Vic and Joey. ANAK of Freddie Aguilar became an instant success because of the spirit and emotions revealed in the song. There were even translations in Japanese and in other languages.

B. THE PLAY UNDER THE NEW SOCIETY

The government led in reviving old plays and dramas, like the Tagalog Zarzuela, Cenaculo and the Embayoka of the Muslims which were presented in the rebuilt Metropolitan Theater, the Folk Arts Theater and the Cultural Center of the Philippines.

Many schools and organizations also presented varied plays.

The Mindanao State University presented a play Sining Embayoka at the Cultural Center of the Philippines.

In 1977, the Tales of Manuvu, a new style of rock of the ballet opera was also added to these presentations. This was performed by Celeste Legaspi, Lea Navarro, Hadji Alejandro, Boy Camara, Anthony Castello, Rey Dizon and choreographed by Alic Reyes.

Even the President’s daughter at the time participated as a performing artist in the principal role of Santa Juana of Koral and in The Diary of Anne Frank.

The following organizations contributed a lot to the development of plays during this period:

1. PETA of Cecille Guidote and Lino Brocka

2. Repertory Philippines: of Rebecca Godines and Zenaida Amador

3. UP Repertory of Behn Cervantes

4. Teatro Filipino by Rolando Tinio

C. RADIO AND TELEVISION

Radio continued to be patronized during this period. The play series like SI MATAR, DAHLIA, ITO AND PALAD KO, and MR. LONELY were the forms of recreation of those without television.

Even the new songs were first heard over the airwaves.

However, many performing artists in radio moved over to television because of higher pay.

Among these were Augusto Victa, Gene Palomo, Mely Tagasa, Lina Pusing, and Ester Chavez.

Popular television plays were GULONG NG PALAD, FLOR DE LUNA, and ANNA LIZA.

SUPERMAN AND TARZAN were also popular with the youth.

D. FILIPINO FILMS

A yearly Pista ng mga Pelikulng Pilipino (Yearly Filipino Film Festival) was held during this time. During the festival which lasted usually for a month, only Filipino films were shown in all theaters in Metro Manila. Prizes and trophies were awarded at the end of the festival in recognition of excellence in film making and in role performances.

New kinds of films without sex or romance started to be made but which were nevertheless well-received by the public.

Among these were:

1. MAYNILA…SA MGA KUKO NG LIWANAG written by Edgardo Reyes and filmed under the direction of Lino Brocka. Bembol Roco was the lead role.

2. MINSA’Y ISANG GAMU-GAMO; Nora Aunor was the principal performer here.

3. GANITO KAMI NOO…PAANO KAYO NGAYON: led by Christopher de Leon and Gloria Diaz.

4. INSIANG: by Hilda Koronel

5. AGUILA: led by Fernando Poe Jr., Jay Ilagan and Christopher de Leon

Sex films could not be shelved. Foreign, as well as local films dealing the bold themes were the vehicles of producers to earn more money.

E. COMICS, MAGAZINES AND OTHER PUBLICATIONS

During this period of the New Society, newspapers donned new forms. News on economic progress, discipline, culture, tourism and the like were favored more than the sensationalized reporting of killings, rape and robberies.

The leading papers during this period were:

1. BULLETIN TODAY   5. PILIPINO EXPRESS

2. TIMES JOURNAL  6. PHILIPPINE DAILY EXPRESS

3. PEOPLES JOURNAL     7. EVENING POST

4. BALITA      8. EVENING EXPRESS

LIWAYWAY had been an old-time favorite of the Filipinos since 1920. Other magazines were:

1. KISLAP3. EXTRA HOT

2. BULAKLAK4. JINGLE SENSATION

Like mushrooms, comics also proliferated everywhere and were enjoyed by the masses.

Among these were:

1. PILIPINO4. HIWAGA

2. EXTRA5. KLASIK

3. LOVE LIFE6. ESPESYAL

F. PALANCA AWARDEES

SHORT STORY CATEGORY

1972-73

First Prize –“SPOTS ON THEIR WINGS AND OTHER STORIES”–Antonio Enriquez

Second Prize –“ON FRIENDS YOU PIN SUCH HOPES”–Ines Taccad Camayo

Third Prize –“THE LIBERATION OF MRS. FIDELA MAGSILANG”–Jaime A. Lim

1973-74

First Prize –“THE CRIES OF CHILDREN ON AN APRIL AFTERNOON IN THE YEAR 1957”–Gregorio C. Brillantes

Second Prize –“THE WHITE DRESS”–Estrella D. Alfon

Third Prize –“TELL ME WHO CLEFT THE DEVIL’S FOOT”–Luning Bonifacio Ira

Honorable Mention –“SCORING”–Joy T. Dayrit

1974-75

First Prize –co-winners

1. “THE DAY OF THE LOCUSTS”–Leoncio P. Deriada

2. “ROMANCE AND FAITH ON MOUNT BANAHAW”–Alfred A. Yuson

Second Prize –co-winners

1. “THE MAN WHO MADE A COVENANT WITH THE WIND”–Cirilo F. Bautista

2. “ONCE UPON A CRUISE: GENERATIONS AND OTHER LANDSCAPES”–Luning Bonifacio Ira

3. “AGCALAN POINT”–Jose Y. Dalisay, Jr.

Third Prize –co-winners

1. “THE DOG EATERS”–Leoncio P. Deriada

2. “THE PEOPLE’S PRISON”–Mauro R. Avena

3. “DISCOVERY”–Dr. Porfirio F. Villarin, Jr.

4. “A SUMMER GOODBYE”–Linda Ledesma and Benjamin Bautista

PLAY CATEGORY

1972-73

First Prize –“THE HEART OF EMPTINESS IS BLACK”–Ricardo Demetillo

Second Prize –“GO, RIDER!”–Azucena Crajo Uranza

Third Prize –“THE RICEBIRD HAS BROWN WINGS”–Federico Licsi Espino, Jr.

1973-74

First Prize (No Award)

Second Prize –“AFTERCAFE –Juan H. Alegre

Third Prize –“DULCE EXTRANJERA”–Wilfredo D. Nollede

1974-75

First Prize –“A LIFE IN THE SLUMS”–Rolando S. Tinio

Second Prize –“PASSWORD –Paul Stephen Lim

Third Prize –“THE MINERVA FOUNDATION”–Maidan Flores

POETRY CATEGORY

1972-73

First Prize –“CHARTS”–Cirilo F. Bautista

Second Prize –“A TRICK OF MIRRORS”–Rolando S. Tinio

Third Prize –“ALAPAAP’S MOUNTAIN”–Erwin E. Castillo

1973-74

First Prize –co-winners

1. “MONTAGE”–Ophelia A. Dimalanta

2. “IDENTITIES”–Artemio Tadena

Second Prize –co-winners

1. “BOXES”–Ricardo de Ungria

2. “GLASS OF LIQUID TRUTHS”–Gilbert A. Luis Centina III

Third Prize –co-winners

1. “A LIEGE OF DATUS AND OTHER POEMS”–Jose N. Carreon

2. “RITUALS AND METAPHORS”–Celestino M. Vega

1974-75

First Prize –“TELEX MOON”–Cirilo F. Bautista

Second Prize –“ADARNA: SIX POEMS FROM A LARGER CORPUS”–Wilfredo Pascua Sanchez

Third Prize –“THE CITY AND THE THREAD OF LIGHT”–Ricardo Demetillo

REPUBLIC CULTURAL HERITAGE AWARDEES

(1960-1971)

NATIONAL ARTISTS

1973

Amado V. Hernandez (Posthumous) (Literature)

Jose Garcia Villa (Literature)

Francisco Reyes Aquino (Dance)

Carlos V. Francisco (Posthumous) (Painting)

Antonio J. Molina (Music)

Guillermo Tolentino (Sculpture)

1976

Nick Joaquin (Literature)

Napoleon V. Abueva (Sculpture)

Pablo Antonio (Posthumous) (Architecture)

Lamberto V. Avellana (Movies)

Victorio G. Edades (Painting)

Jovita Fuentes (Music)

G. AN OVERVIEW OF THE LITERATUE DURING THE NEW SOCIETY

Bilingual education which was initiated by the Board of National Education as early as 1958 and continued up to the period of Martial Rule in September 21, 1972, resulted in the deterioration of English in the different levels of education. The focus of education and culture was on problems of national identity, on re-orientation, renewed vigor and a firm resolves to carry out plans and programs.

The forms of literature that led during this period wee the essays, debates and poetry. The short stories, like the novels and plays were no different in style from those written before the onset of activism.

Some of the books that came out during this period were:

I Married a Newspaperman (essay) by Maria Luna Lopez (wife of newsapaperman Salvador B. Lopez), 1976

The Modern Filipino Short Story by Patricia Melendrez Cruz, 1980

Cross Currents in Afro-Asian Literature, by Rustica D. Carpio, 1976

Brief Time to Love by Ofelia F. Limcaco

Medium Rare and Tell the People (feature articles and TV Program) by Julie Yap Daza

Period of the Third Republic (1981-1985)

Historical Background

After ten years of military rule and some changes in the life of the Filipino which started under the New Society, Martial Rule was at last lifted on January 2, 1981.

To those in government, the lifting of military rule heralded a change. To their perceptions, the Philippines became a new nation and this; former President Marcos called “The New Republic of the Philippines.”

A historian called this the Third Republic. The First Republic he claimed was during the Philippine Republic of Emilio Aguinaldo when we first got our independence form the Spaniards on June 12, 1898.

The Second was when the Americans granted us our independence on July 4, 1946. This period, January 2, 1981, was the Third Republic when we were freed from Military Rule.

During this period, it cannot be denied that many people seethed with rebellion and protest because of the continued oppression and suppression.

This was further aggravated when former Senator Benigno S. Aquno Jr., the idol of the Filipino masses, whom they hoped to be the next president, was president, was brutally murdered on August 21, 1983.

This stage of the nation had its effect on our literature. After the Aquino assassinated, the people’s voices could no long be contained. Both the public and private sectors in government were chanting, and shouting; women, men and the youth became bolder and their voices were raised in dissent.

We can say that Philippine literature, in spite of the many restrictions, still surreptitiously retained its luster.

THE PALANCA AWARDS

The Don Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for literature which was launched in 1950, continued its recognition of the best in the literary fields –poetry, short story, essays, and the one and three-act plays.

In 1981, the winners were the following:

First Prize:Jessie B. Garcia’s –“In Hog Heaven”

Second Prize:Luning Bonifacio –Ira’s “The Party Hopper”

Third Prize:Jesus Q. Cruz –“In These Hallowed Halls”

In 1982, those who won were:

First Prize:“Heart Island”by Jose Dalisay Jr.

Second Prize:“Pas de Deux”by Azucena Grajo Uranza

Third Prize:“The Sky Is Always Blue”by Joe Marie A. Abueg

In 1983, the mood was restive, characteristics of the times. The nation was angry after the murder of opposition leader Benigno Aquino but the awards ceremonies continued after a delay. The winners are:

First Prize:“Oldtimer”by Jose Dalisay Jr.

Second Prize:“Games”by Jesus O. Cruz

Third Prize:“Perfect Sunday”by Jose Y. Ayala

First Prize in poetry (Pilipino): Jose F. Lacaba

Second Prize (English essay): Gregorio Brillantes

Third Prize (English essay): Adrian Cristobal

In 1984, the winners were:

First Prize:“The Reprieve”by Susan S. Lara

Second Prize:“The Tangerine Gumamela”by Sylvia Mendez Ventura

Third Prize co-winner:“The Little Wars of Filemon Sayre”by Lemuel Torrevillas

Third Prize:“Stranger in an Asian City”by Gregorio Brillantes

In 1985, those who won were:

First Prize:“The Hand of God”by Conrado de Quiros

First Prize:“A Novel Prize for Jorge”by Eli Ang Barroso

No awards for second prize

Third Prize:“Mecca of the East”by Charles Loong

In 1984, the Palanca Awards started choosing the best in novel writing. This contest, held every three years, gives time for local writers to write more beautiful and quality works. The next contest on the best novel was held in 1987. La Tondeña continues to be its sponsor.

B. FILIPINO POETRY

Poems during this period of the Third Republic were romantic and revolutionary. Writers wrote openly of their criticism against the government. The supplications of the people were coached in fiery, colorful, violent, profane and insulting language.

C. FILIPINO SONGS

Many Filipino songs dealt with themes that were really true-to-life like those of grief, poverty, aspirations for freedom, love of God, of country and of fellowmen.

Many composers, grieved over Ninoy Aquino’s treacherous assassination composed songs.

Among them were Coritha, Eric and Freddie Aguilar. Corithaand Eric composed asongtitles LABAN NG BAYAN KO and this was first sung by Corithaduring the National Unification Conference of the Opposition in March, 1985. This was also sung during the Presidential Campaign Movement for Cory Aquino to inspire the movement against Marcos in February 1986.

Freddie Aguilar revived the song BAYAN KO which was written by Jose Corazon de Jesus and C. de Guzman during the American period.

D. PHILIPPINE FILMS DURING THE PERIOD

The yearly Festival of Filipino Films continued to be held during this period. The people’s love for sex films also was unabated.

Many producers took advantage of this at the expense of public morality.

E. POETRY IN ENGLISH DURING THE THIRD REPUBLIC

Most especially, during the wake of the tragic BenignoAquino Jr.’sincident, people reacted with shock, appalled by the suddenness and the unexpectedness of events.

Alfredo Navarro Salanga, a consistent writer of Philippines Panorama Magazine in his column “Post-PrandalReflections”aptly said it: “darkness in the mind and soul is how some forgotten poet puts it. Its suddenness was so profound that we couldn’t but react to it in any other way.”

Elemental to us (poets or writers) was how to grasp to some meaning –in a symbol, a phrase or word –in the language of heart and tongue, the poet’s only candles. So we tried to reach out in the next and perhaps the only way we could: by putting pen to paper and speaking out –as partisans in a human drama.

Poets, surprisingly, by common consent, found themselves writing on a common subject.

Reproduction of some of them is reprinted here. We aptly call them Protest Poetry of the ‘80’s.

The themes of most during this time dealt with courage, shock and grief over the “treachery inflicted upon Aquino.”

F. MEDIA OF 1983

Sheila S. Coronel, a PANORAMA staff stalwart, reporting on the state of the media during these times said: it was a year of ferment, and change, of old problems made more oppressive by the new throbbing beat of the times.”

For journalists, it was a year loaded with libel charges, lawsuits and seditious trials which they gallantly bore as harassment suits.

JAJA (Justice for Aquino, Justice for All) Movement called for a boycott of government –controlled newspapers in protest of media suppression. People picketed newspapers offices with coffins to symbolize the death of press freedom.

In campuses, newspapers were set afire to protest lack of free expression. Journalists suffered physically and otherwise.

Journalists of 3 major dailies demanded a dialogue with their publishers to “restore credibility and respectability”to newspapers.

Opposition tabloids flourished. They sold our papers with the red news to the starved public; hence, smut magazines like the TIKTIK, PLAYBOY SCENE, and SAKDAL also played the sidewalks.

Radio led by RADIO VERITAS started reporting coverage of demonstrations. Information Minister Gregorio Cendañacalled the tabloids the “mosquito press”and called their new “political pornography.”

However, there was a perceptible liberalization of editorial policies in the major newspapers.

G. CHILDREN’S BOOKS

Among the well-loved forms of writing which abounded during this period were those of children’s stories. The Children’s Communication Center (CCC) directed by poet and writer VirgilioS. Almarioalready has built up an impressive collection of these kinds of books. The following are some of the books of the period.

1982:PLAYS FOR CHILDREN by JameB. Reuter S.J. (New Day Pub.)

1983:STORY TELLING FOR YOUNG CHILDREN

1983:JOSE AND CARDO by Peggy CorrManuel

1983:Joaquinesquerie: MYTH A LA MOD (CachoHermanos)

1983:LAHI: 5 FILIPINO FOLK TALES (of 5 English books and 1 cassette tape)

1984:RIZALIANA FOR CHILDREN: ILLUSTRATIONS and FOLKTALES by: Jose P. Rizal, Intoducedand annotated by Alfredo Navarro Salanga

1984:GATAN AND TALAW by Jaime AlipitMontero

H. (PROSE) FABLES

The people’s cry of protest found outlets not only in poetry but also in veiled prose fables which transparently satirized the occupants of Malacañang. Among those that saw prints were:

1. The Crown Jewels of Heezenhurstby Sylvia Mendez Ventura

2. The Emperor’s New Underwear by MeynardoA. Macaraig

3. The King’s Cold by BabethLolarga

4.The Case of the Missing Charisma (unfinished) by Sylvia L. Mayuga.

In all the fables, the king, differently referred to as TotusMarkus or the king or Haring Matinikwas meant to poke fun at the ruler at Malacañang; similarly, Reyna Maganda or the Queen, was a veiled thrust at his queen.

They were both drunk with power and were punished in the end for their misdeeds.

1. THE STATE OF PHILIPPINE LITERATURE IN ENGLISH AT THIS TIME

Isagani Cruz, writing about Philippine literature in the “Age of Ninoy,”makes the following observations:

“Philippines literature is definitely changing,”and he summarizes these as follows:

1. Change in the direction of greater consciousness in content and form.

2. Change in the number of readers and the number of writers and the kind of class of writers. Writers who joined the ranks came not only from the established or professional groups but from all ranks –clerks, secretaries, drivers, housewives, students; in short, the masses.

3. The resurgence of Balagtasismoand the continued dominance of Modernismo. While Balagtasismoturned its back on the American challenge to Philippine literature its conservative conventions, Modernismoadapted Americanization for its own ends.

4. The birth of a new poetic movement still dims in outline.

5. The apparent merging of the erstwhile separate streams of oral and written literature.

J. SOME WRITERS DURING THIS PERIOD

1981-85

1981:PHILIPPINE FOLK LITERATURE by DamianaEugenio

1981:ADVENTURES OF MARIAN by Carissa OrosaUy

1982:SOMEWHERE BETWEEN YOUR SMILE AND YOUR FROWN AND OTHER POEMS by Bienvenido M. NoeigaJr.

1983:PARES-PARES by Bienvenido M. Noriega Jr.

1983:AGON: POEMS, 1983 by Edgar B. Maranan

1984:THE FARMER by Alfredo Navarro Salanga

1984:THE ROAD TO MOWAB AND OTHER STORIES by LeoncioP. Deriada

Periods (1986-1999)

Historical Background

History took another twist. Once more, the Filipino people regained their independence which they lost twenty years ago.

In the span of four days form February 21-25, 1986, the so-called People Power (Lakas ng Bayan) prevailed. Together, the people barricaded the streets petitioning the government for changes and reforms.

Freedom became a reality –won through a peaceful, bloodless and God-blessed revolution.

Philippine society was in turmoil for a few weeks but the rejoicing after the Pres. Marcos was toppled down from power was sheer euphoria. Singing, dancing and shouting’s were the order of the day.

The events created overnight heroes. In this historical event, the role played by two big figures in history cannot be doubted. To Defense Minister Juan Ponce Enrileand Armed Forces Chief of Staff Fidel V. Ramos, as well as to the cause of freedom do the Filipinos owe their gratitude for the blessing of Independence?

To the Filipino people, this is the true Philippine Republic, the true Republic of the Philippines.

PERIOD:

In the short span of the existence of the true Republic of the Philippines, several changes already became evident. This in noticed in the new Filipino songs, in the newspapers, in the speeches, and even in the television programs.

1. On Newspapers and other publications:

Newspapers which were once branded crony newspapers became instant opposition papers overnight. This was true of BULLETIN TODAY which became the opposition paper. The now crony newspapers that enjoyed an overnight increase in circulation were THE INQUIRER, MALAYA, and the PEOPLE’S JOURNAL.

Newspapers felt that the shackles that muzzled their voices during the repressive years had been broken and, like a bird “trying its wings after a long time of bondage,”the desire to write about this “miracle of change”was electric.

Columnists became vocal and unrestricted in there are and a bumper crop of young journalists emerged. The old stalwarts of the former dispensation like MaximoSoliven, Louie Beltran, HilarionHenares, and Francisco Soc Rodrigo came back with a vengeance.

By June 12, 1986, a total of 19 local dailies both in English and Filipino were in circulation.

Nowhere since the 1950’s had there been such a big number of newspapers in circulation (excluding tabloids).

These newspapers include: BULLETIN, TEMPO, BALITA, MALAY, MIDDAY, MASA, MANILA TIMES, NEWS HERALD, TRIBUNE, NGAYON, INQUIRER, EXPRESS TONIGHT, EVENING POST, PEOPLE’S, DAILY MIRROR, BUSINESS DAY, and MANILA CHRONICLE.

2. On Books: Philippine literature is still in the making…we are just beginning a new era.

The Phillippinerevolution of 1986 and the fire of its spirit that will carry the Filipinos through another epoch in Philippine history is still being documented just as they have been in the countless millions who participated in body and spirit in its realization.

Two books were conceived during the period.

PEOPLE POWER was produced under a grant by the PCI Bank Human Resources Development Foundation, edited by MoninaAllareyMercado and published by the James B. Reuter, S.J. Foundation.

Another one BAYAN KO was published by Project 28 Days LTD. in June, 1986 in Kowloon, Hong Kong and co-published in the Philippines by VeritasPublications and Communications Foundation.

In March 19, 1987 the Seventh National Book Awards cited several best books published in 1987 according to the choices made by the Manila Critics Circle. Among those awarded were: DreamweaversSelected Poems (1976-1986) by Marjorie Perniaand Awitat Corrido:Philippine Metrical Romances by DamianaL. Eugenio.

BookfairManila ’88 organized by the Philippine Exhibit Company was held on February 20-28, 1988. It was held with the belief that “requisition of knowledge not only enhances individual skills and capabilities but more importantly, makes positive contributions to the nation’s development

program.”

B. FILIPINO SONGS DURING THIS PERIOD

Here are a few Filipino songs that were often heard. They were often aired in radio and television and often accompanied the historical events that transpired in the Philippines and gained for the Filipinos world-wide acclaim.

An album named HANDOG NG PILIPINO SA MUNDO carried a compilation of some of these.

The song that continued to be sung throughout the trying period of the Revolution, almost like a second national anthem and which gave fire to the Filipino spirit was BAYAN KO. Its lyrics were written by Jose Corazon de Jesus way back in 1928.

Summary

The flowering of Philippine literature in the various languages continue especially with the appearance of new publications after the Martial Law years and the resurgence of committed literature in the 1960s and the 1970s.

Filipino writers continue to write poetry, short stories, novellas, novels and essays whether these are socially committed, gender/ethnic related or are personal in intention or not.

Of course the Filipino writer has become more conscious of his art with the proliferation of writers workshops here and abroad and the bulk of literature available to him via the mass media including the internet. The various literary awards such as the Don Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature, the Philippines Free Press, Philippine Graphic, Home Life and Panorama literary awards encourage him to compete with his peers and hope that his creative efforts will be rewarded in the long run.

With the new requirement by the Commission on Higher Education of teaching of Philippine Literature in all tertiary schools in the country emphasizing the teaching of the vernacular literature or literatures of the regions, the audience for Filipino writers is virtually assured. And, perhaps, a national literature finding its niche among the literatures of the world will not be far behind.