Young pens take spotlight in Premio Etasor 2.0
Sentro ng Wika at KulturaThis year’s Premio Etasor 2.0, a local poetry tilt in Bikol-Catandunganon, drew 25 entries — many penned by young, first-time poets finding voice in their mother tongue. Held at the CatSU Accreditation Room on May 26, the event doubled as an awarding ceremony and book launch, with students and emerging writers sharing space with literary veterans. The contest, now in its second year, honors the legacy of Efren “Etasor” Sorra, a homegrown poet and artist known for championing local language and culture. The tilt is open to all Catandunganons — students, professionals, freelancers, and even those based outside the island. Entries this year came from fresh voices, writing about field work, faith, folk beliefs, longing, and the island’s shifting landscape. Literary journal Tagama (Isyu 1), published by Aklat Ulagad launched its new issue, Kalabira, an anthology of Premio Etasor 2024 winners and select submissions. Each attendee received a copy of Tagama. Winners received books from Aklat Ulagad, along with cash prizes: ₱5,000 for first, ₱3,000 for second, and ₱2,000 for third. Honorable mentions also brought home books from Aklat Ulagad. Karyl Tugay, a CatSU BSED English major, topped the contest with her suite Tunton Balagon, Siram, and Parauma. Fausto Sarmiento and Ian Victor Antonio placed second and third, respectively., while Joshua Marino and Jane Bermejo earned honorable mention. Judges included poet-critic Dr. Alan C. Popa, ESCOM Director Reashiela L. Khan, and national award-winning author Napoleon I. Arcilla III, who also happens to clinch the top spot in last year's Premio. CatSU OIC President Dr. Roberto B. Barba Jr. also took part — throwing in a message of support and reading his own poem during the program. A Certificate of Appreciation was also awarded to Governor-elect Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, former CatSU president and event sponsor. Premio Etasor 2.0 is organized by the Catanduanes State University Sentro ng Wika at Kulturang Filipino, headed by Dr. Jovert R. Balunsay, in partnership with Aklat Ulagad.
