As the country observes National Literature Month this April, Senator Loren Legarda on Wednesday reaffirmed the vital role of Philippine literature in shaping national identity and elevating the country’s cultural presence globally.
“There is a rich history of literature in our country, even dating back to pre-colonial times when our ancestors passed down epics, folktales, myths, and songs through oral tradition,” Legarda said in a statement.
She emphasized that both oral and written forms of literature are essential in preserving cultural heritage, encouraging creativity, and transmitting timeless values to future generations.
National Literature Month is celebrated every April under Proclamation No. 968, signed in 2015, and coincides with global literary events such as International Children’s Book Day, World Book Day, and World Intellectual Property Day.
This year’s theme, “Sikad Panitikan: Kultura at Panitikan ng Kaunlaran,” underscores the role of literature in driving cultural growth and national development—an advocacy strongly backed by Legarda.
She recalled the influence of national hero Dr. Jose Rizal’s literary works in awakening Filipino nationalism during Spanish colonization, saying:
“Without literature, there is no real progress.”
Legarda also celebrated the Philippines’ recent recognition as guest of honor at the 77th Frankfurt Book Fair, one of the world’s most prestigious publishing events, as a testament to the nation’s growing literary footprint.