THE Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino (Commission on Filipino Language), in coordination with the Cebuano Studies Center (CSC) of the University of San Carlos (USC), recently held the Pambansang Kumperensiya sa Wika at Panitikang Sebwano (National Conference on Cebuano Language and Literature) from April 25 to 27 at the Albert Van Gansewinkel Hall at the USC Downtown Campus.
Aimed at equipping teachers from all levels knowledge on the history and usage of Cebuano literature and issues, such as the implementation of the mother tongue-based multi-language education, the conference was attended by teachers from different parts of the Visayas and Luzon.
The speakers included editor-writers Richel Dorotan and Edgar Godin of Bisaya Magasin and teacher-writers, namely, St. Theresa’s College professor Desiree Balota; professors Jocelyn Pinzon and Joanalyn Gabales of the University of the Philippines Cebu; and professor Noel Tuazon of the Holy Name University.
The highlight of the conference was the presentation of the Kampeon ng Wika (language champions) to pillars of Cebuano literature like professor emeritus Dr. Resil Mojares, Dr. Erlinda Alburo, Cordova Mayor Adelino Sitoy and Atty. Cesar Kilaton Jr.
The awarding was headed by KWF chair and national artist for literature Virgilio Almario aided by KWF commissioners, including commissioner for Cebuano language and USC CSC director Hope Sabanpan-Yu.
To cap the conference, all participants were invited to the book launch of a compilation of short stories, Kining Inalisngaw Sa Akong Tutunlan, by Cebuano writer Omar Khalid.