During an evening that showcased outstanding literary accomplishments, four extraordinary writers were inducted into the prestigious Palanca Hall of Fame at the 72nd Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature. This elite circle recognizes writers who have won First Prize five times in any of the Palanca Awards writing categories. Such honor not only acknowledges their profound contributions to Philippine literature but also celebrates their lasting impact in the world of storytelling.
Among them is Cagayan de Oro-based Mikael de Lara Co, a seasoned strategic communications professional. A poet, translator, and editor, he was an Assistant Secretary at the Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office during the Benigno Aquino III administration and is currently the Deputy Director General for Communications of the Liberal Party, and a Senior Communications Consultant of the Office of the Vice President.
Co’s journey to the Palanca Hall of Fame is marked by his dedication to the craft of poetry. Co’s winning piece, “Panayam sa Abo,” secured the First Prize for Tula this year, further cementing his status as a master of the genre.
This Cagayan de Oro-based Hall of Famer is defined by his lifelong passion for poetry. Winning the accolade has been a significant milestone, rekindling his dedication to writing poetry that is honest and true to his experiences and emotions.
Mikael de Lara Co’s poetry is decidedly Filipino in scope, vision and heart. Writing of the pre-colonial and the colonial experiences, the poet pieces together the dream of a nation from all its broken materials. Co’s project has made him one of the strongest contemporary Filipino poets.
Mikael de Lara Co is honored as a Palanca Hall of Fame awardee at the 72nd Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature. He also clinches the First Prize for Tula with his piece “Panayam sa Abo.”
Co’s poetry and translations have garnered numerous accolades in the Philippines, among them four Palanca awards, two Maningning Miclat awards, and two nominations for the National Book Award. He staffed for former Philippine President Benigno S. Aquino III, and currently heads the corporate communications division for a renewable energy company. He remains an active volunteer and advocate for public sector reform, climate justice, human rights, data privacy, and truth-telling.
Since his first win in 2007, Co described his journey to the Hall of Fame as truly a lifelong endeavor. After 17 years, he is thankful for the continuous recognition and support that has fueled his passion for poetry.
“What I plan to do is maintain the same commitment to my craft, maintain my same commitment to integrity, to my values and to writing honest poetry.”
The Legacy of the Palanca Awards
We asked Co why it is essential for Philippine literature to be represented and celebrated through competitions like the Palanca Awards.
“I think it’s essential because the community is essential. And Palanca Awards is more than just being an institution that hands out awards, it’s a space where community is built. It’s a psychic space where community is built,” Co said.
Co believes the younger generation will expand on the rich legacy of Philippine literature, stressing the importance of mentoring young writers. These fresh voices are poised to push creative boundaries and explore new themes, reflecting the evolving Filipino experience and ensuring the literature remains vibrant and relevant.
Co, and his fellow Hall of Famers share a common and straightforward piece of advice for aspiring writers: WRITE! This seemingly simple yet profound directive underscores the essence of what it means to be a writer.
“You get better at something if you keep doing it, whatever it may be. If you want to be a good writer, if you want to improve, you have to keep writing. Then ask yourself the tough questions: Is this good or bad? How can I make it better? It’s a process of self-learning, and it requires labor—hard work,” Co said.
The Palanca Awards, often dubbed the “Pulitzer Prize of the Philippines,” continues to uphold a tradition of excellence in literature. This year’s inductees into the Hall of Fame exemplify the highest standards of literary artistry and dedication.
The Palanca Hall of Fame is not just a recognition of their past successes but a celebration of their ongoing contributions to the literary world. It underscores the importance of these awards in fostering a vibrant literary community and ensuring that Philippine literature remains a significant cultural force. As we honor these distinguished writers, we also look forward to the future of Philippine literature, enriched by their legacy and the new voices they inspire.
More information about the Palanca Awards is available at the website <palancaawards.com.ph> and on Facebook <fb.com/palancaawards> and YouTube <youtube.com/@palancaawards>. (CID Communication)
