The Philippines is one of those few Asian countries known for its mastery of the English language. This can be particularly seen in the Call Center Industry, where several overseas companies have chosen the Pearl of the Orient as an off-shore site for their business. Not only are Filipinos well versed with the English language, but most of them have actually have a good grasp of Western Culture as well. And from that great factors, comes also the creation of several renowned literary word-smiths. These English writers, regardless of their mastery of the written word, can create works or art that not only stand at par – even greater, at times – with Western counterparts, but can also stand on its own as good representations of the unique and diverse Filipino culture. Let’s get to meet some of the best Pinoy Literary Masters:
Lourd de Veyra
As Radioactive Sago Project’s frontman, the cool and smooth-talking cat that is Lourd de Veyra screams beat poetry with a healthy mix of Pinoy culture. Such is his mastery of the language, that whether it be in the Spoken or Written word, he can sure get his point across with a bang. And with his great talent with text, comes with an equally great personality. Since being part of TV5, one of the country’s upcoming TV network giants, de Veyra brinks in spunk and flair in the world of local journalism.
Angelo V. Suarez
A rare breed of modern Pinoy pop culture and traditional poetry, Angelo V. Suarez is one of the Philippine’s youngest contemporary poets. With his rhymes verging on the mundane – local beer houses – to the expressive and hard-to-understand concept of Dadaism, Suarez is a breath of fresh air on all the technical and progressive mumbo-jumbo we’re being fed at. His books come as a delight – the poetry is so good, coupled with the great graphic art combined.
Nick Joaquin (Quijano de Manila)
Nobody does it better than Nick Joaquin, otherwise known by his pen name, Quijano de Manila. The late journalist, known for his alcoholic tendencies and powerful verbal outbursts, has produced some of the Philippine’s best journalistic reports. By best, we mean not just straight, factual reports. What makes this writer’s works so great is his talent to create otherwise boring events into full-blown creative stories. And he does this without scraping off a single shred of truth. Check out Reportage on Crime for some of his best works!
The Philippines is home to some of the best writers in the world. What makes them so great is not their mastery of the English language, but for creating both unique and universal works. Visit your local bookstore, and get to read works from these writers!
