PEN International goes‘all in’on its 2021 online congress

THE Philippine Centre of International PEN (Poets, Essayists, Novelists), in partnership with the Cultural Center of the Philippines, will hold its annual Congress on May 15, 2021 via the official Facebook pages of CCP, CCP Intertextual Division, and Philippine Center of International PEN.

Following the theme “All In,” the congress aims to capture the linguistic and cultural inclusivity that the digital space enables, as well as speak of the collective hope Filipinos must have during these uncertain times.

Marking the 100th year of PEN International, this year’s theme also signifies the Philippine PEN’S solidarity with the organization’s continuing fight for Freedom of Expression across the world by delivering a message of unity in freedom and dignity — values that Filipino writers must express and espouse in their work.

The one-day congress will be held in two parts. The first part features a keynote address by Bro. Karl Gaspar, followed by the traditional Jose Rizal lecture by Dr. Reynaldo Ileto. This morning session is primarily for active members of the organization, but it will be streamed live on the Facebook pages of the CCP and the Philippine PEN.

The second part takes place in the afternoon. “Free the Word” features public readings and performances by noted writers and artists across the nation, including Elsie Coscolluela, Rody Vera, Anton Juan Jr., Edgar Samar, Frank Rivera, John Iremil Teodoro, Jhoanna Cruz, Guelan Luarca, Adjani Arumpac, JK Anicoche, Erl Sorilla, Jonathan Davila, Richard Hangdaan Kinnud, Jason Chancoco, and Neldy Jolo, among others. This is open to the public.

Follow the CCP, CCP Intertextual Division, and PEN International Facebook accounts for more updates.