Xavier University will play host to the first-ever Cagayan de Oro Writers Workshop organized by the Nagkahiusang Magsusulat sa Cagayan de Oro (NAGMAC), in partnership with XU Department of English Language and Literature (DELL), from April 1 to 3.
Nine young CDO-based writers have been chosen as writing fellows. They are:
Jessmark D Acero
Christian S Baldomero
Adeva Jane H Esparrago
Stephanie Alexis C Gonzaga
Arvin E Narvaza
Hazel-Gin L Aspera
Gari R Jamero
Jeany Mae D Macalam
Ervin Patrick G Silva
The workshop encompasses fiction, creative non-fiction, and poetry.
“It has been years since CDO had a writers' workshop. ... Now that the first CDO Writers Workshop has finally materialized, I’m excited because this time I’ll be serving as a panelist along with my mentors,” workshop director and poet Mark Anthony L Daposala shared.
“I’m excited for the fellows for this workshop. This event wouldn’t come into fruition without NAGMAC and the support of XU DELL.”
Daposala said the screening process was "not an easy task for the core members" due to the number of applications they received. "Not to go into too many details, we selected the fellows based on the promise of their respective work, and the craftsmanship," he added.
Critic-dramaturg Rogelio F Garcia Jr and other distinguished writers in the city (whose names will be announced soon) will compose the members of the panel.
Poet-fictionist Raul G Moldez, poet Dr Arlene J Yandug, and fictionist-essayist Dr Ma Elena L Paulma will serve as mentors-at-large for the fellows.
"Just like most writers' workshops, the fellows' works will be read and critique by the panelists and other fellows. We hope they will take note of the suggestions from other fellows and the panel," Daposala said.
In an article on Philippine Literary Portal, NAGMAC hopes this workshop will “revitalize CDO’s local writing culture and assert its identity in the map of regional literatures in the country.”
The organizers are also looking for interested partners and sponsors. You may reach the workshop secretariat through This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or through their mobile number, +63 916 6232 400.