30 March 2015 – Filipino writers, led by Philippine National Artist for Literature Professor Virigilio S. Almario with Assistant Professor Kristian Sendon Cordero of Ateneo de Naga University and Associate Professor John Iremil E. Teodoro of Miriam College, Quezon City participated in the Second ASEAN Literary Festival 2015 held in Jakarta from March 15 to 22.  Filipino speech writer/columnist Jamil Flores, who is based in Indonesia, was also featured one of the speakers during the event.

The delegates served as speakers on the following subjects: Literary Works and Contemporary ASEAN Society; Consumerism vs. Literary Works; Challenges in a New World:  Lesson drawn from African and Asian literature; Radicalism and Moderation in Literature; and Literature in a Digital Era.

Professor Almario is the Philippine nominee for this year’s ASEAN Literary Award which will be determined next year.

Philippine Ambassador to Indonesia Maria Lumen B. Isleta and personnel from the Philippine Embassy in Jakarta attended discussions and workshops. A promotional booth that showcased Philippine tourism and crafts was set up by the Embassy during the festival.

Artists from ASEAN states and ASEAN Dialogue Partners participated in the Festival. END