The UPV University Library, through Ms. Analiza Galang-Linaugo, University Librarian, proudly received a complimentary copy of the book “It Is Time to Come Home: New and Collected Poems” from renowned poet, Dr. Marjorie Evasco-Pernia, during the second day of the much-awaited Iloilo Mega Book Fair held on April 20, 2024 at SM City Iloilo, North Point.
During the book presentation, Dr. Evasco gave a brief lecture on Reciprocal Listening: Writing and Reading Poetry, providing book enthusiasts and aspiring poets valuable tips on how to delve deeper into the creative writing process. She emphasized the importance of attentive silence and focusing on ideas instead of things in poetry writing.
“Listening is one of the arts of writing,” said Evasco. She concluded the lecture with a beautiful recitation of the poem, Oh Taste and See! by Denise Levertov.
In his closing remarks, Asst. Prof. Noel Galon of the UPV Division of Professional Education and IMBF co-founder reminisced about the first time he read a poem by Dr. Evasco and its profound impact on his love for literature. A book signing and photo op with Dr. Evasco concluded the program.
Dr. Evasco is a renowned literary figure from Maribojoc, Bohol. She holds the position of Professor Emeritus of Literature and University Fellow at De La Salle University (DLSU) Manila and has been serving as a Writer in Residence since 2019. She has received numerous awards throughout her career: Carlos P. Garcia Award for Literature (2011); NCAA Ani ng Dangal (2011); South East Asian Writers’ Award for poetry (2010); Outstanding Silliman University Alumna for Creative Writing (2008); Patnubay ng Sining at Kalinangan (2005); and the Gawad Alagad Balagtas for Poetry (2004). Anthologies published the literary works of Dr. Evasco, and her poetry has been translated into various Philippine dialects and foreign languages.
"It is Time to Come Home" is a 416-paged poetry book published by Milflores Publishing, Inc. in partnership with De La Salle University Publishing House. It includes poems from Evasco’s previous books that are no longer in print. Felix Mago Miguel, an award-winning book designer who studied Fine Arts at the University of the Philippines-Diliman, created the book design.
National Artist for Literature Gemino H. Abad wrote the foreword and described Dr. Evasco as a writer who remains true to her heritage and understands the thoughts and feelings of her fellow Filipinos by creating stories that resonate with her readers.
Dr. Evasco, also known as Dr. Marj is currently co-editing a book on health and healthcare, which is set to launch next year. (With sources from Dr. Evasco’s bio notes)
